Student Affairs Strategic Plan 9 The development of the Student Affairs Strategic Plan (2025–2030) began on August 3, 2020, and continued throughout the implementation of the previous plan (2021–2025). During this time, forwardthinking ideas, projects, and initiatives were identified, refined, and prepared for the right moment, team, and campus context. Some concepts were set aside as the political, fiscal, and cultural landscape evolved. What remains is a thoughtful and timely plan that represents the next step in Northern’s journey as a student-centered liberal arts institution. Formal planning was launched during the Summer 2024 Student Affairs Staff Retreat at Agtegra Cooperative. There, our team reaffirmed our mission, vision, values, and planning structure. Staff emphasized the importance of greater transparency in the development and rollout of initiatives, as well as broader involvement in the vetting process. To guide our efforts, we adapted a strategic planning framework from Ruffalo Noel Levitz (RNL), which included establishing a planning structure, identifying key performance indicators, conducting a situational analysis, and collecting relevant data. On February 3, 2025, we invited all students, staff, and faculty to contribute feedback through a campus-wide survey. Questions included: “How can Student Affairs improve communication and engagement with the campus community?” and “What new programs, services, or initiatives would you like to see implemented over the next five years?” The survey was promoted through shared governance meetings, including the Student Government Association Senate (2/5/25), Graduate Student Association (2/5/25), Faculty Senate (2/10/25), Executive Leadership Team (2/10/25), Staff Council (2/13/25), and Academic Dean’s Council (2/19/25). The feedback gathered was invaluable and directly informed the plan’s development. Following the creation of a draft, we began a campus-wide vetting process in April and May 2025, starting with one-onone meetings with Executive Team Leaders, Dean’s Council, and other key campus leaders. Broader engagement followed with presentations to the Residence Hall Association (4/28/25), Student Government Association (4/30/25), Student Homecoming Committee (4/30/25), and Staff Council (5/8/25). This plan reflects the collective vision and dedication of our campus community. I am grateful to everyone who contributed their time, insights, and passion to help shape the future of Student Affairs at Northern. MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN OF STUDENTS
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