Academic Planning

To:	All Faculty
From:	Linda L. Lamwers, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Re:	Academic Planning Overview
Date:	Tuesday, October 25, 2011

This year, in conjunction with the development of a new Strategic Plan for the University, the Academic Affairs Division is engaged in Academic Planning. The goal is to examine the division as it currently exists, and, in response to the changing higher education landscape, consciously assure that it is sustainable in a form that is directly tied to our core mission and central values. The expected outcome of the process is a stronger Academic Affairs division that supports our continued commitment to student success. During the course of the process, we expect to identify areas of competitive strength, uniqueness, and potential growth as areas for investment, as well as areas that may be struggling. The process will involve a multiphase effort focusing on qualitative analysis and quantitative analysis. Throughout the process, stakeholders will have the opportunity to inform the process.

A Faculty Advisory Group consisting of Drs. Jen Bacon, Carolyn Jimenez, Lisa Millhous, Jeffrey Osgood, and Geeta Shivda has provided valuable insights and advice in the development of the process, timelines, and quantitative and qualitative measures.

Click on the links below to view the following items:

• Academic Planning Process Document (including Appendices #1 and #2)
• Appendix 3: A preliminary listing of quantitative metrics for credit-generating units
• A visual diagram of the process and timeline

As you review the documents, you will notice that we are now at Step 3.

The first step for departments will be to share with this group their views about quality by completing the Qualitative Questionnaire (4 questions - Appendix 2.) The questions will be re-sent to department chairs and program directors later this week.