A Hub for Creativity and Collaboration for Every Bear

The new Suey Hey and Stella Chin Innovation Den — a contemporary makerspace reimagining library resources — equips UNC students and campus community to design, prototype and create across disciplines

A den of innovation is taking shape in Michener Library — the new Suey Hey and Stella Chin Innovation Den features all the trappings of a contemporary makerspace where students, faculty and staff can experiment, create and play.

Located on the first floor of Michener Library, the Innovation Den is an interdisciplinary space where creation takes shape. The room features 3D printers, a Cricut cutting machine, a heat press, a sewing machine and serger, a button maker and design software — reimagining library resources while providing tools to turn ideas into tangible outcomes.

Whether a business student is developing a product concept, an education major is creating classroom materials or an art student is experimenting with new forms, the space provides an environment that makes innovation approachable, accessible, collaborative and inclusive.

“We certainly did not have anything like this for students in the past. Many academic libraries have innovation spaces — and I felt Michener Library is the perfect place to serve all students” — Sheila Yeh, Ph.D., UNC dean of libraries.

Mo Manshad, Ph.D., associate professor of computer information systems at the Monfort College of Business, serves as the inaugural faculty advisor to the Innovation Den. In this role, he will help guide the development of hands-on, interdisciplinary learning experiences and train faculty, staff and students to integrate innovative tools and emerging technologies into their work.

The Suey Hey and Stella Chin Innovation Den is made possible thanks to the generosity of Robert A. “Bob” Chin, ’74, Ph.D., who named the space in tribute to his parents. His gift provides students, faculty and researchers with the tools to design, prototype, create and experiment — regardless of their major or experience level.

Chin’s investment ensures the space will continue to evolve well into the future. Through endowment support, the fund will sustain long-term growth and impact, supplementing student wages, equipment upgrades, material expansion and related needs — keeping the Innovation Den responsive to emerging technologies and accessible to all UNC students.

“If students are comfortable learning new technology, that gives them confidence — they’re not afraid to explore, to try something new,” Yeh added.

More than a named space, the Suey Hey and Stella Chin Innovation Den represents a commitment to access, exploration and the belief that every student deserves the tools to create. It is designed to grow as a resource where creativity, collaboration and career-ready skills are possible for every Bear.

How the Suey Hey and Stella Chin Innovation Den works

When will the space be accessible?
The Innovation Den is expected to be open and operational in fall 2026.

Do I have to reserve the equipment in the room?
Yes, there will be a reservation system for independent use. Faculty-led and class-based programming will also be offered, supported by the Innovation Den’s faculty advisor Mo Manshad and other instructors.

Will I need to bring my own materials?
The Innovation Den offers some materials, including 3D printing filament, for a minimal fee. Specific supplies, such as fabric for sewing, should be provided by users.

Learn more about UNC Libraries.

Chin named the Innovation Den after his hardworking parents, Suey Hey (left) and Stella Chin (right).

About the Donor: Robert A. “Bob” Chin, ’74, Ph.D.

Chin credits his time at UNC as the foundation for a lifetime of achievement. Following his service in the U.S. Air Force, he completed his degree in industrial arts in just over two years, then built a career spanning decades in education and military service.

A technologist and lifelong supporter of UNC, Chin’s generosity has helped create spaces that inspire innovation and learning. In addition to supporting the Suey Hey and Stella Chin Innovation Den, he also underwrote the naming of Michener Library’s James F. and Helen K. Graff Multipurpose Room in honor of his cousins, whose guidance helped shape his path to UNC and beyond.

Both spaces continue a legacy of honoring family while expanding opportunity, ensuring that every Bear, regardless of major or experience level, has access to the tools and opportunities to design, create and explore.

Through his support of UNC and alignment with the priority to innovate & create from the university’s strategic plan, Chin has created a legacy that empowers all Bears to imagine and build — together.

Learn more about the vision elements in Rowing, Not Drifting 2030, UNC’s 10-year strategic plan.