Meg Lewton

This document presents the outputs and opportunities identified during a strategic session for the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM). It aims to subvert norms, foster a new mindset, and chart a new future by addressing challenges such as 'Mojo Lost,' 'Deficit Mindset,' and 'Perception vs Reality.' The strategic direction is framed around declaring aspirations ('THESE are the days'), taking action ('From SHOULD to WILL'), and delivering on promises ('Promises Made/Kept'). Key opportunities include building a new model for 21st-century universities and integrating social innovation into every course. The overarching vision is for UDM to become the North American hub for social innovation, producing successful and purposeful graduates, and serving as a model for higher education.

The University of Detroit Mercy envisions itself as highly sought after for inclusive and transformative student experiences, strategically positioned for sustainability, and continually investing in the development and wellbeing of its faculty, staff, and students. Key focus areas include diversified revenues and fundraising, fostering passionate people and a values-driven environment, elevating reputation and expanding audience, prioritizing inclusion and wellbeing through individual and local connections, unlocking potential and opportunity through civic and industry partnerships, and enhancing innovative experiences and programs for relevance and impact.

The University of Detroit Mercy's strategic plan for 2025-2029 aims to establish the institution as an inclusive, nationally recognized organization offering transformative student experiences, enhance its position for longevity and sustainability, and invest in the development and well-being of its faculty, staff, and students. The plan is structured around key priorities: cultivating a distinguished national reputation, driving financial stability, providing an outstanding student experience, and strengthening the university ecosystem. It emphasizes enrollment growth, greater efficiency, and financial sustainability, serving as a guide for resource allocation and fundraising while reinforcing the University's mission of academic excellence and values-based education.

The Detroit Mercy 2019-2024 Strategic Plan, "Boundlessly Forward," aims to create a better future for the university by empowering stakeholders to collaborate. The plan focuses on building upon past achievements and creating a shared vision. Key areas of focus include strengthening community engagement, delivering dynamic academics that address current and future challenges, and passionately serving and supporting the university community.

The University of Detroit Mercy's 2019-2024 Strategic Plan, "Boundlessly Forward," focuses on three primary goals: creating Detroit's "College Town," delivering relevant and dynamic academics, and passionately serving students and each other. The plan aims to enhance the student experience through facility improvements and programming, strengthen community engagement, and improve the delivery of academic programs. Outcomes include increased student enrollment and retention, improved graduation rates, enhanced campus facilities, stronger community partnerships, increased sponsored research funding, and a more supportive campus culture for both students and employees. The annual report details progress made during the 2021-2022 academic year toward achieving these goals.