The University of Wyoming has released a draft strategic plan, focusing on advancements in academic quality, enrollment, statewide engagement, diversity and economic development for the next five years, according to a UW news release.

The draft plan’s main focus include increases to student recruitment, retention and graduation; degree programs offered online and at UW’s regional centers; collaborations with community colleges and K-12 schools; research funding; startup companies; and private contributions to the university.

UW’s 24-member Strategic Planning Leadership Council drafted the plan after an extensive series of public meetings around Wyoming and on campus. The council is accepting public comment on the draft, which the public can view online.

Town-hall meetings to present the draft and accept comments have also been scheduled.

The first meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 6, from 3:30-5 p.m. in Room 133 of the Classroom Building. Subsequent meetings will be held Monday, April 10, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. in Room 138 of the Berry Biodiversity Conservation Center; Friday, April 14, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in Room 133 of the Classroom Building; Tuesday, April 25, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in Strausner Hall at Casper College.

UW Provost Kate Miller, who chairs the Strategic Planning Leadership Council, says the group is welcoming input from all of UW’s constituents.

“This draft is still rough in some respects, but it represents the council’s best efforts to set a course by which the university fulfills its flagship and land-grant mission through the free and open pursuit of knowledge in engagement with Wyoming and the world,” Miller said in a statement. “Our vision is to bring Wyoming and Western intelligence, energy, grit and innovation to the economic, social and environmental challenges of today, and to create a thriving, equitable and sustainable world for tomorrow.”

The plan will be presented for consideration by UW’s Faculty Senate, Staff Senate and the Associated Students of UW, following any revisions that may result from public input. It then will go to the UW Board of Trustees for final consideration and approval.

Following Board of Trustees approval, the plan will be implemented at the start of the 2017-18 fiscal year, with college and unit plans finalized in fall 2017.

 

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