Franklin Antonio Hall (FAH) is more than just a state‐of‐the‐art building at UC San Diego’s Jacobs School of Engineering—it’s a vibrant hub for innovation, collaboration, and learning. Named after Qualcomm co-founder Franklin Antonio in recognition of his generous donation, FAH is designed for cross-disciplinary research, active learning, and technology transfer. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Franklin Antonio Hall a unique event venue, the range of events held there, and how you can make the most of your visit.
1. Overview of Franklin Antonio Hall
Franklin Antonio Hall is located at 3180 Voight Drive, Suite 1401 in La Jolla, California. As a modern engineering facility, FAH is home to 186,000 square feet of collaborative research space. The building’s design emphasizes openness and connectivity, featuring multiple collaboratories (or “collaborative laboratories”) where faculty, students, and industry partners work together on groundbreaking projects. Its architectural elements—including exposed concrete walls, sculptural sunshade fins, and a gravity-defying spiral staircase—create a dynamic atmosphere that sets the stage for innovative events and engaging discussions.
2. Types of Events at FAH
Franklin Antonio Hall hosts a wide range of events that cater to different audiences—from industry professionals and academic researchers to students and community members. Here are some of the key event types:
A. Academic and Professional Seminars
Academic seminars and professional workshops are a staple at FAH. For example, the Institute for the Global Entrepreneur (IGE) regularly organizes events such as the IGE Alumni Speaker Series and MedTech Boot Camps in FAH’s IGE Suite 1401. These seminars offer insights into entrepreneurship, sustainability, and technological innovation. Attendees can gain valuable knowledge, network with industry leaders, and learn about cutting-edge research trends.
B. Engineering Community Hours and Social Mixers
UC San Diego’s Jacobs School of Engineering leverages FAH for community-building events like the monthly Engineering Community Hour. These informal gatherings allow engineering students to connect with faculty and professionals in a relaxed setting, fostering conversations that can lead to mentorship, collaboration, or even career opportunities. Additionally, social mixers and themed events—such as networking “Taco Tuesday” sessions—provide an opportunity for the campus community to unwind while exchanging innovative ideas.
C. Industry Partnerships and Collaborative Sessions
FAH is not only an academic venue—it’s also a space where industry meets innovation. Events like the UCSD & MathWorks Seminar Series are held in Franklin Antonio Hall (specifically in rooms such as the Robert Conn Executive Conference Center) and highlight collaborations between the university and leading technology companies. These sessions cover topics such as AI, deep learning, and mechatronics, offering practical advice for professionals and students alike.
D. Special Lectures and Workshops
From guest lectures by renowned speakers to hands-on workshops, FAH hosts a variety of special events that stimulate creative thinking and foster interdisciplinary dialogue. Whether you’re interested in entrepreneurship, advanced research techniques, or the latest trends in engineering education, you’ll find events tailored to your interests. The venue’s flexible spaces allow for everything from large-scale presentations to intimate breakout sessions.
3. Venue Features That Enhance the Experience
Franklin Antonio Hall’s design is integral to the overall event experience. Here are some features that set it apart:
A. Collaborative Spaces
FAH is organized into multiple collaboratories that encourage interaction and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The open floor plans, connected atriums, and bridging walkways create an environment where ideas can flow freely between different groups and disciplines.
B. Modern Amenities
With state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, high-speed internet, and flexible seating arrangements, FAH is well-equipped to handle a variety of event formats. Whether it’s a lecture, panel discussion, or networking event, the venue’s modern amenities ensure that every event runs smoothly.
C. Accessibility and Location
Located in La Jolla, FAH is easily accessible for both on-campus and off-campus attendees. Its position within the Jacobs School of Engineering means that visitors are often surrounded by a community of innovative thinkers and entrepreneurs. The facility is also designed with accessibility in mind, making it welcoming for all guests.
4. Tips for Attending Events at Franklin Antonio Hall
If you’re planning to attend an event at FAH, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
A. Register Early
Many events at Franklin Antonio Hall are popular and tend to fill up quickly. Whether you’re interested in an academic seminar, a networking mixer, or a workshop, be sure to register early to secure your spot. Check the event pages on the IGE or UCSD website for registration links and deadlines.
B. Plan Your Visit
Take some time to familiarize yourself with the layout of the building. Franklin Antonio Hall is designed for collaboration, with several distinct areas and rooms. Look up maps or virtual tours available on the UCSD website or through event organizers so you know where to go once you arrive.
C. Network Actively
Events at FAH are excellent opportunities to meet peers, industry leaders, and academics. Bring business cards, be open to conversations, and consider joining post-event social mixers. These networking opportunities can lead to collaborations, mentorships, and even career advancements.
D. Engage with the Content
Whether you’re attending a technical seminar or a creative workshop, engage actively with the content. Ask questions, participate in discussions, and take notes. Many events also offer follow-up resources, such as recordings or presentation slides—be sure to access these materials to reinforce your learning.
E. Utilize On-Site Amenities
Make the most of the venue’s modern amenities. If an event includes interactive sessions or breakout groups, use the provided technology to participate fully. Many events at FAH incorporate advanced tools and digital platforms, so being comfortable with these technologies can enhance your overall experience.
5. How to Stay Informed About Upcoming Events
Staying updated on the latest happenings at Franklin Antonio Hall is easy if you know where to look. Here are some key resources:
A. Institute for the Global Entrepreneur (IGE)
The IGE website is a primary source for upcoming events at Franklin Antonio Hall. With a dedicated events calendar, you can view details about seminars, speaker series, boot camps, and more. The IGE newsletter also provides regular updates and event highlights—consider subscribing to stay informed (
B. UC San Diego Events Calendar
UCSD’s official events calendars, such as the Arts & Entertainment calendar and the University Centers events page, often feature events taking place at FAH. These calendars provide comprehensive details, including dates, times, and locations for various campus activities.
C. Social Media and Mailing Lists
Follow UCSD Jacobs School of Engineering, IGE, and related campus organizations on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Many events are promoted through these channels, and you might receive real-time updates or reminders. Additionally, signing up for email newsletters from these groups can ensure you never miss an event.
D. Campus Bulletin Boards and Apps
If you’re on campus, keep an eye on bulletin boards, digital screens, and campus apps. These often display upcoming events and important announcements related to Franklin Antonio Hall and other campus venues.
6. Examples of Recent and Recurring Events
To give you a clearer idea of what to expect, here are a few examples of recent and recurring events held at Franklin Antonio Hall:
IGE Alumni Speaker Series
This series features distinguished alumni sharing their entrepreneurial journeys and insights on innovation. Held in Suite 1401 of FAH, these sessions are both informative and inspirational, offering networking opportunities for current students and industry professionals.
IGE MedTech Boot Camp
Targeted at early-stage startups in the medical technology field, the MedTech Boot Camp is an intensive workshop designed to help innovators bring their products to market. Participants benefit from expert mentorship, technical seminars, and hands-on sessions—all hosted within the dynamic environment of FAH.
Engineering Community Hour
A monthly informal gathering, Engineering Community Hour is a space for UCSD engineering students to connect with faculty and professionals. This event fosters a supportive environment where ideas are exchanged freely, and future collaborations are born.
UCSD & MathWorks Seminar Series
As part of the broader collaboration between UCSD and industry partners, the MathWorks Seminar Series offers technical sessions on topics like artificial intelligence, simulation, and mechatronics. These events, often held in rooms within FAH, are designed to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world application.
7. How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in hosting or organizing an event at Franklin Antonio Hall, there are several avenues to explore:
A. Partner with IGE or UCSD
Many events at FAH are organized in collaboration with the Institute for the Global Entrepreneur or other UCSD departments. Contact the event coordinators via the UCSD website or through the IGE office to learn about partnership opportunities.
B. Submit Your Event Proposal
UCSD and affiliated organizations often have submission forms or dedicated portals for proposing new events. If you have an idea for a workshop, seminar, or community mixer, submit your proposal following the guidelines on the relevant UCSD events page.
C. Volunteer and Network
Attending events is a great way to get involved. Volunteering at campus events not only provides behind-the-scenes access but also helps build connections that could lead to future opportunities to organize or host events at FAH.
8. Final Thoughts
Franklin Antonio Hall is more than just a building—it’s a nexus of innovation and collaboration at UC San Diego. The variety of events hosted here reflects the dynamic nature of the campus community, from academic seminars and professional workshops to informal social mixers and industry partnerships. Whether you’re a student, a faculty member, an industry professional, or simply an enthusiastic community member, there’s always something exciting happening at FAH.
By leveraging the rich resources available through UCSD’s event calendars, newsletters, and social media channels, you can stay up-to-date with all the happenings at Franklin Antonio Hall. And if you’re inspired to get involved, there are many opportunities to participate in, organize, or even host your own event in this innovative space.
This guide should serve as your go-to resource for navigating the diverse and engaging events at Franklin Antonio Hall. Embrace the opportunity to learn, network, and be inspired by the cutting-edge ideas and collaborations that define UC San Diego’s Jacobs School of Engineering.
Happy exploring, and we hope to see you at the next event at Franklin Antonio Hall!
