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As ÐÔ°®ÌìÌà nears the transition from Phase 3 to Phase 4 of its strategic planning process, the University is grateful to the working group members who have invested time, energy, and research into the four pillars developed from community input so far. These working groups were chaired by:

• Dennis Ugolini, Ph.D., professor of physics: Student-focused EducationÌý
• Jamie Thompson ’05, Ed.D., interim dean of students and associate vice president for Student Affairs: Distinctive Programs
• Andrew Wells, Ph.D., vice president for Student Affairs: Supportive Physical Environment
• Terris Tiller ’00, director of alumni career engagement and networks: Destination of Choice

The working groups used data from Fall 2023 focus groups conducted on campus and the community survey administered in December and January. Working group members each also conducted their own research on peer and aspirant institutions to define differentiators, identify innovators, and position ÐÔ°®ÌìÌà to deliver the best possible outcome for all.

Student-focused EducationÌý

Members of this working group considered how to leverage ÐÔ°®ÌìÌÃ’s high-quality faculty and educational offerings to further its educational mission and student outcomes. Priorities from the Student-focused Education sessions focused on expanding and improving co-curricular offerings while leveraging the strengths of ÐÔ°®ÌìÌÃ’s classroom experience. Many of the ideas that emerged from this working group built upon ÐÔ°®ÌìÌÃ’s existing strengths to further differentiate the student experience.

Distinctive Programs

Members of this working group envisioned ÐÔ°®ÌìÌà as a national exemplar of innovation and co-curricular programs. When expanding upon the theme of Distinctive Programs, the working group outlined different types of hands-on learning opportunities, such as community engagement or comprehensive summer experiences. These opportunities would encourage students to experience personal development, engage in civil discourse, and foster an appreciation for the arts.

Supportive Physical EnvironmentÌý

Members of this working group reflected on the impact of ÐÔ°®ÌìÌÃ’s physical spaces on the student experience and considered how to promote wellness and belonging within these spaces. The working group emphasized connectedness, student-centeredness, connection to the outdoors, sustainability, wellness, inclusivity and belonging, and accessibility as essential to envisioning and embodying a supportive environment.

Destination of Choice

Members of this working group focused on leveraging ÐÔ°®ÌìÌÃ’s location and culture as a piece of the San Antonio community and as a destination workplace for both the supply and demand of talent. The working group recognized that the University must better leverage its bustling urban location in its proximity to downtown San Antonio, and must foster strong local, state, national, and international relationships nurtured through external engagement and community relationship management.
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This webinar marks a significant milestone in our strategic planning efforts. Feedback from this webinar will conclude Phase 3, Facilitated Visioning and Design Thinking. Upon conclusion of the working group sessions, ÐÔ°®ÌìÌà will begin defining the University’s strategic direction over the next three to five years. This includes developing high-level priorities for our mission, vision, goals, and action steps, as well as the assessment of possible strategic alternatives.

Visit theÌýStrategic Planning website for a full timeline and more information about the process as a whole.