Building Graduate Programs

• Develop and promote excellent graduate programs aligned with the University mission of applied learning, applied research, and professional service in the community and region.
• Develop a supportive academic environment for applied graduate study and research.

Enhancing Academic Quality

• Become a national center of excellence in applied learning and a national model for the new American regional university.

• Provide a learning environment that encourages substantial academic achievement, connects knowledge and practice, and promotes regional service.
• Provide student services that are accessible and enhance the quality of students' lives academically, personally, socially, and culturally.

• Support and recognize faculty excellence in teaching and learning; scholarship, applied research, and creative activity; and service to the region.

Sustaining Institutional Accreditation Priorities

• Market Western as a prototype for the new American regional university, characterized by applied learning and applied research and service.
• Strengthen the University-wide initiative to attract, engage, and graduate a diverse student body.
• Provide all graduates with an experience in applied learning.

Building Connections

• Engage Western actively in the educational development of the region.
• Engage Western fully in the economic development of the region.
• Engage Western extensively in the cultural development of the region.
• Engage Western directly in addressing the social development of the region.
• Enhance community connections through parent groups, alumni activities, and athletic events.

Using Measurement and Assessment

• Develop the framework to support institutional research and assessment.
• Create and implement a comprehensive University assessment plan focused on student learning and mission effectiveness.

Valuing People

• Recruit, hire, support, and retain a diverse group of employees with the specific credentials, skills, and values required of excellent faculty, staff, administrators, and student employees.
• Provide a safe and healthy environment at all campus locations for students, employees, and guests.
• Promote a respectful and positive work environment where individuals and groups are engaged and recognized for their contributions and respect for diversity.

Building and Managing Resources

• Leverage resources to meet students' nees and the long-term strategic development of the University.
• Support institutional strategic initiatives through the expanded use of technology.
• Capitalize on new funding opportunities for the University's strategic directions.