Brad Barry

The Latin American and Caribbean initiative aims to diversify the Wilkes University campus by attracting students from Central and South America, particularly Panama. The initiative seeks to build upon the university's existing international student population, which is primarily from the Middle East and Asia. The goal is to increase the number of students from Panama through partnerships and educational opportunities.

The strategic plan outlines a six-year effort to develop Wilkes University into one of the finest small universities in the country. It focuses on six key themes: academic excellence through investments in programming and faculty; investment in the university's people; student recruitment, retention, graduation, and job placement; strengthening the university's financial position; building an improved university campus in downtown Wilkes-Barre; and reinforcing the university's commitment to its community.

The 2023-2028 Strategic Plan for Wilkes University focuses on advancing academic excellence, supporting student success, prioritizing community enrichment and service, promoting innovation and partnerships, strengthening financial resilience, and optimizing infrastructure. The plan aims to foster collaborative networks, equip students for transformative growth, and affirm the value of liberal arts and sciences. It also seeks to expand career development pathways, enhance financial support for students, promote an inclusive campus climate, and improve access to partnerships. The plan includes diversifying recruitment strategies, enhancing instructional spaces, and transitioning to sustainable energy infrastructure.

The 2021-2023 Strategic Plan for Wilkes University, titled "Bridge to the Future," focuses on six key goals: fostering institutional efficiency and a culture of entrepreneurship; promoting excellence in academic programs and research; empowering faculty and staff; recruiting, retaining, and graduating students; improving financial strength; and strengthening connections with alumni. The plan aims to enhance Wilkes's ability to thrive in a post-pandemic world by addressing challenges through strategic resource allocation, program development, and improved operational efficiency. Specific initiatives include restructuring administrative units, conducting academic portfolio reviews, enhancing virtual learning capabilities, improving employee recognition and retention, implementing targeted recruitment and retention strategies, and strengthening fundraising efforts.