The foundation of any memorable campus experience lies in its esthetics—intentionally spelled with an “e” to reflect not just visual appeal, but the deeper, sensory connection to place. At the University of Detroit Mercy, a Jesuit institution intrinsically tied to its urban namesake, the campus mirrored the city’s resilience. While it featured strong facilities and meaningful spaces, both interiors and exteriors lacked the polish needed to fully reflect the pride and potential of the institution.
Services Provided
The Solution
Enhancing the Campus Experience and Embracing Its Detroit Identity
During a two-day immersive campus visit—meeting with students, staff, and leadership—our enrollment consulting team identified an opportunity to amplify what was already working. A newly renovated admissions and welcome center provided a strong anchor for hosting prospective families. The campus itself was walkable, secure, and filled with spaces that resonated with student interests and academic priorities.
What was missing? A cohesive sense of care and place.
Our primary recommendation: invest in the overall presentation of campus—both through physical upkeep and thoughtful branding—to create a more inviting and intentional visit experience for all.
Detroit Mercy’s leadership took the challenge seriously. They empowered their facilities, maintenance, and housekeeping teams with new structure and support. Just as critically, they secured a generous donor to fund a campus-wide branding initiative. This effort included fresh wayfinding signage and commissioned outdoor art installations that celebrate Detroit’s spirit and the university’s rich Jesuit heritage.
The new visual elements do more than guide visitors—they tell a story. They connect past, present, and future, reinforcing the university’s identity and creating a compelling sense of place that resonates with everyone who steps onto campus.
One of three outdoor art installations that have enhanced Detroit Mercy’s campus esthetic.
Big, immersive branding builds school spirit.
Photo opportunities encourage promotion and pride.
Branding installations tell the Detroit Mercy story.
Strategic branded banners on the way to the Admissions office create a sense of place.
The Results
The transformation was immediate and impactful. The campus is now cleaner, more vibrant, and visually aligned with the university’s mission and values. Morale among students and staff has improved, and prospective families are responding with enthusiasm.
Most importantly, the enhanced campus visit experience is supporting enrollment growth—and helping reposition Detroit Mercy as a place where heritage, heart, and hometown pride come together in powerful ways.
“We are so proud of our campus and ready to show it off to more and more prospective families.”
Tyra Rounds
Executive Director of Admissions
