UI begins development of 2027-32 Strategic Plan

The University of Iowa has begun the next phase of developing its 2027-32 Strategic Plan, building on progress made through the current plan and input gathered from the university community.

An executive planning team has been formed to guide development of the plan, while the current strategic plan work groups and three new goal-based planning teams will propose priorities related to the university's core missions of teaching, research, and service.

"We've achieved a lot through our current strategic plan because people across the university have worked together around a shared set of priorities," says Kevin Kregel, executive vice president and provost. "As we look ahead, we can build on that momentum, focus on what Iowa does exceptionally well, and identify where we can have the greatest impact for our students, faculty, staff, and the people we serve across the state."

The goal-based planning teams will meet with faculty, staff, students, university leaders, and external stakeholders throughout the fall and winter. The university aims to have a new strategic plan approved by the Iowa Board of Regents and ready for implementation on July 1, 2027.

Planning began earlier this year with a review of strategic plans from colleges, central and auxiliary units, the Iowa Board of Regents, and peer institutions, along with listening sessions across campus. A total of 212 people participated in more than 20 sessions, sharing their perspectives on what distinguishes Iowa, which elements of the current plan remain essential, and what new opportunities should shape the university's future.

Building on progress

The next strategic plan will build on significant progress made through the university's 2022-27 Strategic Plan. Iowa has already met or exceeded several of its 2027 target measures, including those related to student retention and graduation, high-impact learning experiences, research expenditure growth, philanthropic support, and UI Health Care patient capacity.

That progress has been driven by broad collaboration. Today, 235 people contribute formally to implementation through Strategic Plan Action and Resource Committee work groups and tactic teams, with many others providing feedback, expertise, and support across campus.

That collaborative approach will continue as Iowa considers how to build on its strengths in teaching, research, and service and advance its commitment to improving lives in Iowa and beyond.

Updates and opportunities to provide feedback will be shared throughout the planning process at strategicplan.uiowa.edu.