Professional Documents
Culture Documents
2
Advancing Excellence
A Strategic Plan for the University of Mount Union
The Mission of the University of Mount Union
The mission of the University of Mount Union is to prepare students for
fulfilling lives, meaningful work, and responsible citizenship.
We will be known for offering a relevant broad-based and career-specific curriculum, ensuring that
our students are prepared for career and personal success. Academic program expansion will primarily come
in the way of high-demand graduate programs and undergraduate majors aligned with the healthcare field
that will fill societal needs while maintaining our firm commitment to a strong academic program that is
grounded in the liberal arts tradition. All the while, students will thrive in an environment that fosters
one-on-one personal attention and appreciates an optimal student-faculty ratio of approximately 14:1.
The excellence of our programs and proven success of our students upon graduation will broaden awareness
of the institution. As a result, increased alumni loyalty and public recognition will garner support at the
highest levels, ensuring continued fiscal and sustainable responsibility.
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Develop a Curriculum
for the Future
Key objectives:
4
Develop a Curriculum for the Future
A key characteristic of the intimate, private university setting is the ability to adapt more quickly to a chang-
ing environment. The challenging economy, shifting demographics and continual technological advance-
ments evident in today’s global society are forcing us in private higher education to transform our ways.
At Mount Union, our continued ability to adjust and remain flexible in our quest to meet the emerging
needs of students and arm them for success in the 21st century will be critical to our future success. We
must continue to foster a learning environment in which students are fully engaged and where their intel-
lectual development is measured by their ability to think critically, communicate effectively, serve compas-
sionately and lead ably. Our promise to provide well-rounded exposure also necessitates a focus on equip-
ping students with the skills that pilot career success and further study. All the while, we must be primed
to offer a pertinent and pliable curriculum that will prepare students for the yet-to-be-discovered career
fields of our ever-evolving world.
The professional world requires ate students while offering the hallmark of the Mount Union
college graduates that are theoretical appreciation and experience. With a solid founda-
versed in their specialized fields, practical preparation vital to tion in the liberal arts, this core
but also skilled as critical think- success in our rapidly-changing has historically included the fine
ers, effective communicators world. arts as a vital component. In
and able leaders. To ensure that reverence to this tradition and
our graduates are equipped for Integral to Mount Union’s in accordance with our mission,
success in today’s world, Mount academic development will be the University pledges to revital-
Union will fortify its general edu- an intentional focus on high- ize the fine arts program.
cation curriculum by creating demand health care programs
a distinctive program that will at both the undergraduate and At the heart of all of these
serve as a model for innovation graduate level – fulfilling one of enhancements will be an insti-
and exploring creative new society’s greatest needs. These tutional focus on nurturing an
methods of delivery including programs will provide great intellectual climate that values
alternatives to the three-credit- synergy with the our already heightened levels of scholarly
nearly ever career field calls
hour system and the possibility flourishing programs in health- accomplishment and challeng-
for civic and global engage-
of a January term. related disciplines and the natu- ing research. To facilitate such
ment, they will simultaneously
ral sciences and will reinforce in-depth forms of study, we
broaden their proficiencies in
In an effort to continue toward our commitment to education are committed to developing
their respective professions.
comprehensive university status for the 21st century. Growth a vigorous and comprehen-
while nourishing the institu- in health-related academic sive Honors Program, creating
As the demands of our evolv-
tion’s foundation in the liberal programming also will allow us opportunities for students to
ing society call for pliability
arts, we will foster the expansion to capitalize on the tremendous pair with faculty members for
and a willingness to adapt, the
of quality graduate programs. opportunities for collaboration investigation and offering out-
requirements of today’s college-
Concurrently, a commitment to that exist with area health-care lets to showcase and celebrate
bound students and their fami-
identifying and implementing providers of national, regional the results of these demanding
lies are focused on convenience
strategic additions or modifi- and local acclaim such as the endeavors.
and efficiency. In response to
cations to the undergraduate Cleveland Clinic, University Hos-
the ever-changing needs of stu-
program will drive a curriculum pitals, Akron Children’s Hospital, Parallel to these challenging
dents, Mount Union will strate-
that continually meets the Aultman Hospital, Mercy Medi- academic endeavors will be
gically design and grow quality
changing needs of our society cal Center and Alliance Commu- a deliberate effort to expose
online offerings as an initial step
through the addition of innova- nity Hospital. 100 percent of our students to
toward other future possibilities.
tive mission-compatible majors, experiential learning initiatives.
We have experimented with
elevation of programs primed A revised and distinguished Through involvement in thriving
summer online courses as well
for growth and prestige and core curriculum and academic study abroad, internship and
as hybrid offerings and will in-
alteration of existing offerings. program, developed to meet service-learning programs, our
tentionally evaluate the success
The University’s robust and the shifting needs of our 21st students will develop an overall
of such programs in an effort to
relevant academic offerings will century world, will continue appreciation for our global
determine the continued role
serve an enrollment comprised to provide the well-rounded society and its demands and
that online education will play
of 90 percent undergraduate exposure that has long-been a challenges. And, in a day where
in our future.
students and 10 percent gradu-
5
Foster An Engaging
Campus Community
Key objectives:
6
Foster An Engaging Campus Community
At the heart of all we do at University of Mount Union is a drive to foster an exceptional experience that enhances stu-
dent personal growth and well-being. As a predominately residential campus, we are uniquely capable of assuring that
learning extends beyond the classroom. Educating the whole person – mind, body and spirit – has long been central to
the essence of the Mount Union culture, and our “community” feel has been a steadfast quality and historical hallmark.
At Mount Union, we are committed to creating a campus environment that moves our students along in their journeys
toward independence, immersing them in a supportive and encouraging, yet challenging haven that is aesthetically
pleasing, stimulating, inviting and safe. Exceptional opportunities for leadership development, social responsibility and
spiritual growth will guide them as they seek and solidify a sense of self in preparation for their roles in our global soci-
ety. From housing and gathering spaces to cultural and wellness experiences, Mount Union’s transformational campus
life is designed to elevate our students from adolescence to autonomy.
7
Manage Strategic
Enrollment Growth
Key objectives:
8
Manage Strategic Enrollment Growth
Demographic predictions for northeast Ohio, coupled with heightened competition for traditional students and a chal-
lenging economy, suggest a less than exceptional picture for the future of private higher education. Some institutions
will falter, while those poised for optimization and planned growth will flourish as a result of their adaptable natures and
innovative strategies.
Key to Mount Union’s future viability is an allegiance to define an appropriate growth formula that will establish a solid
foundation for our financial stability and provide for mission-essential resources. It also will be crucial to effectively
convey the priceless value of an investment in the Mount Union experience. The current climate in higher education will
present challenges for growth, but by raising the bar for recruitment and retention and establishing new quality under-
graduate and graduate programs with market draw, the University will emerge as a beacon of excellence and innovation.
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Ensure the
Sustainable
Management of
Resources
Key objectives:
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Ensure the Sustainable Management of
Resources
At a time during which the economy is affecting everyone, Mount Union has been fortunate to have a history of
strength, providing us with the assets and the energy to be proactive in the coming years. Our adept management of
all resources has resulted in an unprecedented five decades of consecutive balanced financial operations, with manage-
able debt, as well as a solid fiscal reputation. It has also allowed our generous contributors to view their support of the
institution as a prudent and advantageous investment in the future.
In an effort to continue this tradition and further elevate the student educational experience, Mount Union pledges to
direct attention to strategic fund-raising goals, cultivate meaningful partnerships with alumni and friends and develop a
deeper appreciation for our faculty and staff. Stewarding the physical campus will be at the forefront of these efforts as
well, with a focus on the acquisition of new properties and building initiatives that confirm our commitment to sustain-
ability leadership.
As we plan for the future, a the launch a focused fund-rais- Creating and maintaining
modern Campus Master Plan ing campaign that will build on Mount Union’s physical cam-
will guide us in our efforts to the strong foundation afforded pus – beautiful, dynamic and
prioritize the projects that will by the recently-completed dignified – is no small feat. Yet,
lead to a truly integrated com- Drive for Distinction. This new the University is so much more
munity. Seamless connections endeavor will provide essential than bricks and mortar. Our
between academic, co-curricu- financial strength and ensure distinguishing characteristic is
lar and residential experiences the implementation of the ini- our people, and the dedicated
will emerge through endeavors tiatives and objectives defined members of our faculty and
including an essential perform- within this plan. One of the key staff are our most critical assets
ing arts center, high-quality components of this campaign for continued growth and suc-
campus housing and additional will be the exploration of the cess. The ability to recruit and
space dedicated to gathering establishment and naming of retain the finest community
and community building. As schools for individual disciplines members is paramount. There- As we plan for the future, we
we commit to the continued that will provide critical funding fore, Mount Union will develop will continue to respect our his-
renewal of campus, we highly for such programs. and implement a competitive torical tradition of living within
anticipate seeking opportuni- salary and benefits plan that our means and balancing our
ties to enhance our perimeters Vital to the success of any insti- will recognize outstanding operational budget. Since
through commercial develop- tution or fund-raising campaign achievement. the mid-1950s, Mount Union
ment enterprises and partner- is the support and generosity has budgeted and operated
ships. Such endeavors could of engaged alumni, and we As future campus plans are conservatively while advancing
provide for additional revenue are privileged to have a strong implemented, Mount Union’s the institution’s efforts to grow
streams while allowing essential core of dedicated and involved commitment to serving as a and change as necessary. As
businesses – restaurants, retail graduates among our 13,000 leader in the higher educa- we develop and implement our
outlets and other establish- degree holders living across tion sustainability movement strategic and campus master
ments commonly found in a the nation and throughout the will not diminish. Guided by plans, we will incorporate a
college town – to flourish. More world. Eliciting their increased a progressive and challeng- flexible strategy that allows us
importantly, the rejuvenation of participation in relevant alumni ing Sustainability Plan, we will to function within a range of fi-
these areas will directly impact programming and enhancing continue to build with LEED nancial environments, whether
and enhance the experiences communication to foster their standards as the norm while good or bad. We will develop
of our students through the connection to the institution providing education and aware- short-term and long-term
transformation of their environ- will allow us to further strength- ness on sustainable practices; planning models that evaluate
ment. en ties with this ever-important incorporating “green” principles new and existing programs and
group. To leverage alumni into our operations, adminis- commit to optimal resource
The identification of prioritized commitment, Mount Union will tration and financial structure; utilization and effective cost
projects through this campus create unique and inventive and carrying out the definitive management, all to ensure our
master planning process will opportunities for support in the actions of the accompanying fiscal responsibility and balance
provide the pathway for future areas of career development Climate Action Plan. our operating budget in the
fund-raising needs, resulting in and new student recruitment. years to come.
11
Enhance the Diversity
of Our Campus
Community
Key objectives:
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Enhance the Diversity of Our Campus
Community
Our students’ abilities to thrive in the global nature of our 21st century world will be dependent on our power as an insti-
tution to expose them to diverse cultures, ideas and opportunities. In essence, we must evolve as a uniquely-diverse and
culturally-supportive community to ensure the enrichment of the educational experience, promotion of personal growth
and encouragement of critical thinking.
At Mount Union, diversity is broadly conceptualized to include international and national differences as well as group
distinctions (ethnicity, class, sexual orientation, ability and political and religious affiliations) and individual characteris-
tics (learning styles and personalities). Such diversity and inclusion ultimately foster an educational climate character-
ized by variety of thought and evoke poignant discussions that highlight an array of viewpoints, assumptions, values and
perceptions. In sum, diversity is an essential component of academic excellence that leads to a richer understanding of
the issues that shape our world and an intrinsic appreciation of the value of all people.
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Broaden the Visibility
and Reputation of the
Institution
Key objectives:
• Embark on an institutional
positioning and brand
clarification effort
• Emphasize the value and
benefits of becoming
University of Mount Union
• Leverage the outcomes and
value of a Mount Union
education
• Develop a cutting-edge web
presence
• Position Mount Union faculty
as experts in their disciplines
• Communicate the University’s
commitment to diversity efforts
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Broaden the Visibility and Reputation of the
Institution
The University of Mount Union’s standing in higher education is well-established and improving, yet the ability to shape
and share the unique and compelling stories of our exceptional student experience has never been more critical. Col-
lege-bound students and their families demand confirmation that they will realize a return on their higher education
investments, and it is through the revelation of brilliant student and alumni outcomes that an appreciation for the value
of a Mount Union education will emerge.
At Mount Union, we are committed to a strategic and research-based marketing approach that will elevate our reputa-
tion and extend our reach in terms of visibility and exposure. Once we “own our own backyard,” we will be poised to be-
come a regional force and extend our reach to a national stage through the promotion of programs and people primed
for such acclaim.
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The Process and additional feedback ses-
sions, Mount Union’s strengths,
• Enhance the diversity of our
campus community
used the following strategic
planning analysis diagram to
for Planning weaknesses and opportunities
were identified. (A summary
• Broaden the visibility and evaluate objectives based on
reputation of the institution three critical components – our
In recent years, and in light of this data can be found on These initiatives have served mission and values, an internal
of the current challenging iRaider at portal.mountunion. the institution well, and they environmental analysis and an
environment that is higher edu and the raw data is avail- have guided our strategic external environmental analysis
education, it has become ap- able in the Kolenbrander- planning process with input – and also to clearly identify
parent that planning for the Harter Information Center on from the research phase objectives that support areas of
future must be a priority. It is library-closed reserve.) dictating when additional greatest leverage for the future.
imperative to set a course for initiatives or revisions to the
the future that includes a clear After careful review of the data current initiatives were neces- The ideas and input offered
and common vision for the and consideration on the part sary for the future. It was also during the research-gathering
years to come. In an effort to of the Imagine Mount Union through our research efforts phase were examined through
launch this process at Mount Steering Committee, it was that we began to see potential the lens of this strategic plan-
Union, the University has part- clear the six strategic initiatives objectives emerge within each ning analysis diagram and
nered with Performa Higher that have guided our efforts of these strategic areas. broad objectives emerged
Education and embarked on throughout the past five years within each of the six strategic
a comprehensive yet efficient were still very much relevant in A large part of the strategic initiatives. Many of the objec-
strategic planning process. regard to our current planning planning process is to evalu- tives of the plan fall within areas
efforts. The development of a ate potential objectives for of greatest leverage for Mount
During this process, much new plan for the future stems the future to determine what Union, meaning that they fall
information was gathered from from these six initiatives: the institution can and should within all three of the broad
all of Mount Union’s constitu- • Develop a curriculum for successfully accomplish in planning areas. They are mis-
ent groups, including trustees, the future the years to come as well as sion critical, while also emerg-
faculty, staff, current students, • Foster an engaging campus what may not be possible ing in our internal and external
alumni, donors, prospective community for a variety of reasons. In an environmental analyses.
students, parents and members • Manage strategic effort to make these critical
of the Alliance community. enrollment growth decisions, the Imagine Mount For example, the addition of
Through focus groups, surveys • Ensure the sustainable Union Steering Committee new and relevant health care
management of resources
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programs would be a leverag- the institution include new pro- Strategic Planning Analysis
ing move for the institution. grams in civil and mechanical
These programs are definitely engineering, online and hybrid
mission and values compat- course exploration and our ef- 2
ible. In regard to the internal forts in regard to sustainability. Internal Environmental
environment, our current Analysis
• Personnel
strengths in terms of science However, not all strategic • Facilities
and health-related programs, objectives included in the plan • Programs
• Current strengths and weaknesses
as well as the addition of a new will be leveraging in nature.
graduate program in physician Some are operational – neces-
assistant studies, have set the sary to turn around a current
stage for future growth in this perceived weakness or address
area. Bracy Hall’s state-of-the- an identified opportunity or 4
art facilities and the current Area of
threat. Others may be neces- Greatest
expertise of our faculty also sary to meet societal needs Leverage
create an environment that is and demands, all future objec- 1 3
rich for health-related growth. tive will at least meet the most University Mission External Environmental
In addition, there is no doubt and Values Analysis
critical component of the anal- • Social, political, economic forces
that there is a great demand in ysis diagram – our mission and (global and local)
• Educational-specific goals
the external environment for values. Our unyielding desire • Opportunities and threats
qualified and caring health- to remain true to our mission
care professionals. Therefore, to prepare students for mean-
they are leveraging for us as ingful work, fulfilling lives
an institution because they are and responsible citizenship Diagram courtesty of Dr. Larry Shinn, president of Berea College
Used in the course of Berea College’s strategic planning efforts
mission-compatible, a good fit will continually challenge the
for our campus environment institution to remain relevant because they are necessary to students, not only for fulfilling
and in demand in our society. and dynamic, thus we must maintaining our strong foun- lives and responsible citizen-
plan to be agile and proactive. dation in the liberal arts. It is ship, but also provides them
Other tangible examples of In fact, some objectives of the this liberal arts foundation that with the adaptability required
recent leveraging moves for plan are included primarily most critically prepares our in today’s world of work.
Looking to
the Future
No one can predict the future,
but we know that inevitably
there will be challenges on the
horizon in higher education.
Changing demographics, a
turbulent economy and a pro-
liferation of higher education
options will remain issues to
overcome. The past few years
have proven to be reward-
ing at Mount Union, but we
recognize the risks of resting
on our laurels. By taking a pro-
active approach and charting
a course for the future, Mount
Union will be better poised to
meet these challenges head
on. Advancing Excellence – A
Strategic Plan for the Uni-
versity of Mount Union is a
compass for the journey that
lies ahead.
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Appendix
Learning Goals C. Develop ability to think
critically.
III. Preparation for Meaningful
Work
B. Find and cultivate
intellectual pursuits.
D. Develop ability to think A. Acquire discipline C. Find and cultivate
To fulfill the mission of the uni- specific knowledge pursuits for personal
creatively.
versity, learning goals provide and skills needed at a enrichment.
E. Develop communication
direction for all components professional level.
skills.
of the undergraduate student B. Demonstrate use of V. Preparation for
experience. The general edu- discipline specific Responsible Citizenship
II. Foundational Knowledge
cation curriculum, major, and knowledge and skills. A. Develop knowledge
and Integration
other curricular and extracur- C. Integrate discipline and appreciation of the
A. Acquire knowledge in
ricular experiences all contrib- specific knowledge and individual’s culture and
humanities, arts and
ute to assist the undergradu- abilities with multiple other cultures in a global
sciences.
ate students with fulfilling disciplinary perspectives. context.
B. Demonstrate the use of
learning goals in the following D. Develop ability to B. Understand and
concepts and methods
five categories: collaborate with others employ ethics within
in humanities, arts, and
sciences. to solve problems. diverse cultural,
I. Core Abilities social, professional,
C. Develop the ability to
A. Demonstrate ability IV. Preparation for Fulfilling environmental and
view the world from
to acquire and assess Lives personal settings.
multiple disciplinary
information. A. Acquire the tools for C. Demonstrate civic
perspectives.
B. Demonstrate research self-development in engagement by active
D. Integrate knowledge
skills (both quantitative order to assess and involvement in and
and techniques across
and qualitative). improve physical, social, beyond the classroom.
multiple disciplines.
emotional, intellectual,
and spiritual growth and
wellness.
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