Strategic Plan

The previous section described the inclusion of mission, culture, core values, and vision in the strategic plan. Here we discuss the 2005-2010 priorities that were identified by the strategic planning process.

Two drafts were developed in the strategic planning process. The first and second drafts and comments are available through the strategic planning website.

Priorities for 2005-2010

Iowa State is a leading international, comprehensive university with a wide range of dynamic and diverse programs and initiatives. The university commits to continuously evaluating, improving, and evolving these programs as well as exploring and innovating new areas of inquiry and application.

Five priority areas and accompanying goals for 2005-2010 have been identified to reinforce existing strengths and pursue our vision.

Strengthen undergraduate, graduate, and professional education to enhance student success at Iowa State University and beyond.

• Improve the rigor, challenge, and international reputation of academic   programs.
• Strengthen students' critical thinking, creative abilities, and communication   skills.
• Enhance students' understanding of global, cultural, ethical, and diversity   issues.
• Create an environment that welcomes students to explore a variety of   disciplines and career paths.
• Increase interdisciplinary and experiential learning opportunities, such as   learning communities, service learning, internships, research experiences, and   international exchanges.
• Enhance programs for high-ability students.
• Partner with K-12 schools and community colleges to facilitate transfer to and   student success at Iowa State University.
• Enhance services to enable students to find rewarding careers.
• Develop, recognize, and reward excellent teaching.

Increase the number of graduate, professional, and research programs that are among the very best - especially in areas that build on university strengths and address local and global critical needs.

• Recruit and retain outstanding faculty who are or will be leaders in their fields.
• Increase the number and elevate the overall quality of graduate and   professional students.
• Leverage strengths in science and technology to enhance research and   scholarly excellence with emphasis on interdisciplinary initiatives involving   biological, materials, and information sciences.
• Enhance areas of excellence in the arts, humanities, and social sciences that   build on and complement the university's unique strengths.
• Improve facilities and support services for research.
• Enhance the visibility of outstanding faculty members and staff, research   accomplishments, and graduate and research programs.

Translate discoveries into viable technologies, products, and services to strengthen the economies of Iowa and the world.

• Expand the use of intellectual property developed at Iowa State University.
• Strengthen educational and outreach programs aimed at Iowa's economic, workforce, and technology development.
• Foster an environment that encourages faculty, staff, and students to engage in transfer of technology and entrepreneurial activities.

Elevate the state's appeal as a place to live, learn, work, and play.

• Strengthen our partnerships and communications with Iowans to better identify, address, and solve problems.
• Enhance the vitality of Iowa's communities and well-being of its people.
• Promote the wise use of Iowa's resources and build a sustainable future.
• Expand learning opportunities for Iowans of all ages.
• Partner with Iowans to strengthen their communities' economies and entrepreneurial capacities.

Ensure that the university is a great place to learn and work.

• Recruit and retain faculty, staff, and students who are dedicated to individual   and organizational excellence and achievement.
• Expand the diversity of people, ideas, and cultures, and nurture an   environment in which diversity can thrive.
• Achieve a sustainable balance between responsibilities and resources that will   allow the university to efficiently and effectively realize its vision.
• Foster an environment in which all members of the university community can   contribute their fullest while pursuing satisfying personal lives.
• Provide a rich array of extracurricular opportunities to learn, lead, and enjoy   life.
• Promote a university that conserves resources and enhances environmental   quality.
• Maintain the attractiveness of campus and improve the quality of its facilities.
• Advance the excellence of the university through enhanced connections   between ISU and its family of alumni and friends.
• Ensure that intercollegiate athletics programs are models of academic   success, integrity, and competitiveness.

Iowa State University, a Carnegie Doctoral/Research Extensive University, is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The university is a member of the Association of American Universities and the National Association of State Universities & Land-Grant Colleges.

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Vietnam Era Veteran.