Winthrop University, focusing on enhancing its educational excellence and addressing evolving challenges, embarked on a strategic planning process in collaboration with Berkeley Research Group (BRG), a renowned consulting firm in higher education. This partnership, reflecting the university’s commitment to transparency and effective communication, involved a steering committee of 10 faculty, staff, and administrators. The process unfolded in four phases: initiating with kickoff meetings, conducting extensive data collection, engaging in preliminary planning, and culminating in the development of the final strategic plan.
To ensure a truly collaborative and inclusive approach, the strategic planning process,
initiated in mid-2023, has been characterized by an unprecedented level of stakeholder
engagement. In just a few months, we have conducted over 100 in-depth interviews conducted
with these key stakeholders and 15 focus groups encompassing faculty, alumni, staff,
students, community, and education partners. This effort has been complemented by
over 500 strategic planning-related input and feedback emails received in addition
to a comprehensive review of over 100 relevant artifacts, including historical reports,
plans, and accreditation documents. Our engagement efforts also included over 15 surveys
and questionnaires, resulting in over 800 responses for the Strategic Planning Master
Survey. Further, we have shared and refined our ideas through over 25 presentations
to various university groups. This extensive engagement has been instrumental in shaping
a strategic plan that truly reflects the diverse voices and perspectives within the
Winthrop University community.
The plan outlines five key focus areas that form the pillars of the university’s strategy: Academic Excellence, Community Engagement, Campus Innovation, Student Experience, and Financial Sustainability. These areas encompass the holistic approach of the university in enhancing its educational offerings, fostering a vibrant campus life, and ensuring long-term financial health. Each focus area is underpinned by specific goals and objectives, ranging from attaining national recognition in academic excellence to establishing a model for community-university partnerships.
Integral to this strategic plan is the updated vision and mission of Winthrop University, which have been revised to align with the current and future aspirations of the institution. The vision of being a leading comprehensive public university reflects the university’s commitment to student-centered learning, inclusive excellence, and community collaboration. The mission, focused on delivering high-quality education that fosters lifelong learning, leadership, and service, encapsulates the essence of the university’s purpose and its role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
The Winthrop University Strategic Plan is a reflection of the institution’s commitment to excellence, community, and innovation. It sets a clear and ambitious path forward, not just for the university, but for the broader community it serves, signaling a new era of growth, collaboration, and impact.
