ATHERTON, Calif. – Menlo College celebrated the dedication of a new BioBulb installation on November 5, bringing an innovative combination of artificial intelligence and living greenery to campus. Located inside the Administration Building adjacent to the Office of President Steven Weiner, the installation was made possible through a generous donation from the Neighborhood Development Collaborative (NDC), in honor of its longtime leader and co-founder, John Carlisi.
Developed by CREO, BioBulb is an AI-powered green building technology that integrates living plants directly into indoor walls. Its autonomous system uses artificial intelligence to support plant health and maintain the installation, bringing together technology, nature, and innovative approaches to indoor environments.
“At Menlo College, we believe preparing future-ready leaders means encouraging students to engage with new ideas, emerging technologies, and the challenges shaping our world. The BioBulb installation is a wonderful example of how innovation can bring together disciplines in unexpected ways. We are grateful to the Neighborhood Development Collaborative for this generous gift and for helping bring this unique experience to our campus,” said Menlo College President Steven Weiner.
The gift honors the legacy of John Carlisi, who passed away in 2024 after a distinguished career in banking and affordable housing. As CEO of the Neighborhood Development Collaborative, Carlisi championed collaboration among organizations working to expand affordable housing opportunities and strengthen communities. Today, NDC continues that work as a coalition of 22 Colorado-based nonprofit organizations and housing authorities.
The installation also offers a tangible example of how emerging technologies are moving beyond the digital world and into the physical environments we inhabit. By bringing artificial intelligence together with living systems, BioBulb reflects the kind of innovation and applied technology that prepares students to understand and engage with a changing world.
Menlo College is grateful to the Neighborhood Development Collaborative for this meaningful gift and for honoring John Carlisi’s legacy through an installation that reflects innovation, collaboration, and the possibilities of emerging technology.
Learn more about BioBulb at biobulb.io.
About Menlo College
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College is a small, residential liberal arts and business college dedicated to preparing students to be Future Ready Now. Through a highly personalized educational experience that combines rigorous academics, applied learning, mentorship, and direct access to one of the world’s most innovative economies, Menlo College helps students convert education into measurable career and life outcomes. For more information, please visit our website or contact pr@menlo.edu
