Partnership Expansion Paves Way For New Community Vision: Brooks Crossing To Become U-Thrive Center

(Newport News, VA) - Newport News Public Schools (NNPS) and the City of Newport News are proud to announce a transformative shift in their collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing innovation, education and community support.

Old Dominion University (ODU) is making big moves providing workforce skills building opportunities for our youth and community! Innovation Lab, which opened at the city's Brooks Crossing Innovation and Opportunity Center (BCIOC) facility in 2019, is expanding into a larger space this summer, with many of its STEM programs to be offered at facilities around the community, and the new Maritime Engineering and Environmental Studies Academy (MEESA) beginning its fall program in Oyster Point of Newport News.

"This next chapter shows what's possible when a city, a university, and a school division work side by side with a shared purpose," said Dr. Kipp Rogers, NNPS Chief Academic Officer. "The expansion of ODU's innovation programs and the start of MEESA aren't just about a new space - they represent a meaningful investment in our students and their future. Together, we're opening doors for Newport News students to explore real-world pathways in maritime, environmental science, logistics, and engineering. We are proud to be part of building a model that connects education, workforce development, and community in a lasting way."

These high-impact programs and their new locations are part of a collaborative and creative reimagining of both skills-building and empowerment-centered services for Newport News' citizens, particularly students and educators, with positive impacts across the region. With these moves, BCIOC will now become home to the City's new U-Thrive Center, a vibrant, community-centered hub designed to meet the needs of youth and vulnerable populations.

"Through our partnership with the City of Newport News, Old Dominion University has been proud to offer dynamic and engaging STEM education classes and programs to the community," said Dr. Karen Sanzo, executive director of ODU's Center for Educational Innovation and Opportunity. "We are excited to expand in a new space and gratified that Brooks Crossing will continue to serve as a center of exciting classes and activities for our neighbors."

Because of the impending move BCIOC will suspend summer programming for 2025. Staff remain committed to providing STEM learning opportunities for area families and we are excited about a new collaboration with the Newport News Public Library and local community learning spaces. These partnerships will allow us to provide hands-on, student-centered opportunities that cultivate creativity, critical thinking, and innovation throughout the city this summer and into the future.

The U-Thrive Center - currently being developed in partnership with community leaders and supported by the National League of Cities (NLC) and Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities (BASC) - will build upon several key city initiatives, including the Youth T.H.R.I.V.E. Initiative, BCIOC, Neighborhood Services Office, and the newly established Community Safety Office. The center will serve as a central location for quality services provided by trusted local organizations and partners, aiming to empower residents and promote long-term community wellness and success.

"Brooks Crossing has long been a place of innovation and collaboration," said Alan K. Archer, City Manager. "With this new chapter, the U-Thrive Center will become a beacon of opportunity, continuing our commitment to lifting up every member of our community."

The City of Newport News extends sincere appreciation to ODU and NNPS for their partnership and continued investment in our shared mission. These institutions have played a vital role in the growth of Brooks Crossing and remain critical collaborators in the ongoing work to support our region's future.

As this transition unfolds, the city looks forward to engaging community voices and service providers to shape a center that is truly by and for the people it serves.

For more information, contact Kimberly D. Bracy, [email protected]; Jennifer L. Williams, [email protected]; or Amber Kennedy at [email protected].