Strategic Planning Process

The purpose of the strategic planning process is to set the Division's collective direction for the years to come. In particular, it is the expectation that this process will result in outlining the vision, mission, values, and guiding principles for the Division. The plan will also establish strategic priorities to enhance the Division's services, resources, and programs to better serve our students while aligning with the University's recently outlined "Plan for Richmond."

Guiding Principles for the Process

• Division-focused – The process adopts a “Team 1” focus; no individual unit or program will drive the process.
• Future-forward – The process will stay focused on the future (through 2030); it will be exciting and focus on what is possible for UR and its students.
• Data-informed – The process will rely on UR and relevant national data to help identify priorities important to UR and its students.
• Inclusive of Multiple Voices – The process will engage the entire division and multiple stakeholders and different levels within and outside the university.
• Open and Transparent - The process must be clear, open, and communicated effectively to all stakeholders in multiple ways; creating and leveraging shared language.
• Center the Students and their Experience – The process will center student needs, experiences, and outcomes in the plan.
• Care-forward for students, staff, and faculty – UR is a community rooted in care; the process will both honor and care for the individuals involved in the plan.

Anticipated Outcomes for the Plan

• Inspirational and Aspirational – the plan will need to stretch the overall team in positive ways and challenge the team to be bold, and at the same time serve as a motivating and exciting vision of UR Student Development’s future.
• Directly Connect to “A Plan for Richmond” – this is Student Development’s plan in the context of UR. The plan will show how Student Development advances and impacts the overall university strategy.
• Accountable – The “why” is understood behind everything included (or not included) in the plan; concurrently, the “who” responsible for different parts of the plan is clear.
• Measurable – The impact of the plan components can be assessed.
• Relevant – The plan must be relevant to the University of Richmond, it needs to honor UR Context and History; rooted in current student development research and data (nationally and at UR); as well as the evolving national landscape of higher education.
• Liberal Arts context – UR is a liberal arts university, and the Student Development plan will be rooted in the principles of a liberal arts education.
• Interdisciplinary – UR embraces an interdisciplinary approach; the Student Development plan will be based on interdisciplinary priorities – both within Student Development and across the UR organization.