DKSOE Facilities

Lucas Hall: The Epicenter of Entrepreneurial Excellence.

Lucas Hall, our state-of-the-art facility, serves as the central hub for entrepreneurial activity. In addition to Lucas Hall, students have access to advanced workspaces, creative studios, and collaborative environments across campus. These facilities are thoughtfully designed to empower students with the tools, technology, and support needed to bring their ideas to life. Whether developing a groundbreaking business concept or exploring digital media design, every space at DKSOE is built to inspire creativity, encourage collaboration, and drive success.

The FineMark National Bank Incubator Space
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The first floor is home to the Runway Program. It features an expansive and modern training space, mentorship rooms, a large conference room, a lounge area, and the program's administrative offices.
State-of-the-Art Classrooms
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The large classrooms on the second and third floor are perfect spaces for collaborative learning. They are equipped with modern technology but also large whiteboards for creative exercises.
The Rist Family Foundation Makerspace
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Creative Innovation Studio
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The Creative Innovation Studio is a hands-on, collaborative space designed to empower students to prototype, build, and test their entrepreneurial visions. From digital media and product design to immersive storytelling and branding, this studio fuels creativity with the tools, technology, and mentorship to turn concepts into real-world impact.
Advanced Computing Lab
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Located on the third floor with the most stunning view on campus, this spacious computer lab is equipped with high-performance workstations designed to power your biggest ideas and bring your creative projects to life.
The Ain Technology and Design Hub
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The Ain Technology and Design Hub is driven by students, powered by innovation—our digital marketing and AI solutions help Southwest Florida businesses, nonprofits, and agencies grow and thrive in the digital space.
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"THE NEST" Innovation Learning Hub
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The NEST Innovation Learning Hub is a collaborative space designed to support student entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. Whether you're refining a concept, developing a prototype, or preparing to launch, The NEST provides access to guidance, mentorship, and additional assistance when you need it most, ensuring you never have to build your vision alone.

A Space Where Art and Entrepreneurship Converge

Lucas Hall’s sculptures and visual boards create a dynamic atmosphere, where students are encouraged to explore new ideas, stay informed, and draw inspiration from both art and their peers. The building’s design reflects the belief that entrepreneurship is not just about business—it’s about creativity, vision, and the power of collaboration.

Sculptures in Lucas Hall
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The Art in State Buildings Program

As part of the Art in State Buildings Program, a percentage of the construction budget for Lucas Hall was dedicated to commissioning original artwork. This statewide initiative enriches public spaces in educational institutions by integrating art into their environments, fostering creativity and cultural engagement. The sculptures in Lucas Hall are not only visually striking but also serve as symbols of the entrepreneurial spirit, reminding students of the value of ambition, creativity, and collaboration in business ventures.
- “Ball Tower” by Dale Rogers – Located on the 3rd floor and donated by Tom and Shirley Tatro, this metal sculpture embodies movement, energy, and collaboration—qualities essential to entrepreneurship.
- “Dream” by Kevin Barrett – Installed on the 2nd floor and gifted by G. Jeffery Provol, this piece symbolizes the power of dreams and aspirations, aligning with the journey of entrepreneurs who bring their visions to life.
Visual Boards: Information and Student Showcases
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The interactive visual boards in Lucas Hall keep the community informed and celebrate student creativity:
- First Floor Visual Board: Displays important university deadlines, DKSOE events, and key announcements for students and faculty.
- Second and Third Floor Visual Boards: Showcase Digital Media Design (DMD) students’ projects and portfolios, offering an opportunity for entrepreneurial and creative students to collaborate and learn from one another. These exhibits highlight the synergy between business and design, promoting interdisciplinary work.