Faculty and staff are invited to a special preview of Empowerfest on Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Cabot Center, an event that celebrates the university-wide launch of Northeastern’s $1 billion Empower campaign.

Visitors will be greeted by a dazzling array of interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences highlighting research and campus activities that represent all nine of Northeastern’s colleges and more. The event will highlight global experiential learning, use-inspired research, entrepreneurship, innovation, and athletics.

The exhibits include startups supported by IDEA, Northeastern’s student-run venture accelerator; a closer look at the university’s new 3-D Printing Studio; hands-on activities that feature Northeastern’s research in areas such as marine science, cybersecurity, and game design; global endeavors from Northeastern’s Social Entrepreneurship Institute; and tables that promote resources such as the Center for Research Innovation and the Center for STEM Education.

The event will also feature musical performances, food, and giveaways. Faculty and staff can register for the event here. They are also welcome to attend the Empowerfest event on Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. over Homecoming Weekend.

“At Empowerfest, visitors can see firsthand how our students, faculty, and research initiatives are solving society’s greatest challenges and transforming our world,” said Diane MacGillivray, senior vice president for university advancement.

In May, Northeastern announced the launch of Empower: The Campaign for Northeastern University, a comprehensive fundraising drive to secure $1 billion in support of programs and initiatives, with a particular focus on three strategic goals: student financial support and financial aid, faculty advancement and expansion, and innovation in education and research.

The unprecedented campaign aims to raise $500 million in philanthropic support and $500 million through industry and government partnerships by 2017, which together will shape the future of teaching, learning, and innovation in education and research.