April 1, 2008
Communication emerges as key issue during strategic planning town hall
It was standing room only in the McDowell Formal Lounge last Friday, during the Strategic Planning Committee’s first town hall meeting. The gathering—which drew about 100 faculty, staff, and students—was the first of six events, designed to elicit campus input on the future direction of the university.
“There’s no such thing as a free lunch, so we expect you to pay us back for this delicious spread with lots of good ideas,” said committee chair William DeLone, a professor in the Kogod School of Business. “This is a unique opportunity to voice our ideas about the future of American University.”
Participants broke into small groups to discuss the committee’s six overarching themes: student centeredness; academic excellence; engagement and service in the global, national, and local communities; a lifelong connection to AU; a community of diverse voices and goals; and institutional resources and competitive advantage. The groups then discussed what was missing.
High on most people’s list was the desire for more open communication, a continued commitment to the environment and sustainability, and issues of social justice. Participants also suggested the need for upgraded facilities and new health and wellness initiatives. Staff retention and increased alumni participation were also themes.
Sara Waldron, associate dean of students, spoke for many in the room when she expressed a desire to better convey the “AU story” to prospective students.
“We don’t have a collective, shared identity,” she said. “How do we communicate our uniqueness and share our story?”
The committee will use the campus community’s input to draft a strategic plan and propose metrics to measure performance. In November, the university will present the plan to the Board of Trustees for review, revision, and approval.
The next strategic planning town hall meeting is slated for 5 p.m., Apr. 22, in Ward 1.
