NSU_Student_Affairs_Strategic_Action_Plan

ABOUT NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY Founded in 1901, Northern State University is a premier regional institution characterized by outstanding instruction, extraordinary community relations, and excellent co-curricular opportunities. Northern is consistently ranked as one of the best public baccalaureate institutions in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report. Our 3,500 students pursue one of 59 majors and 46 minors and hail from 42 states and 42 foreign countries. Located in the beautiful Aberdeen South Dakota, the campus has seen more than $120 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. STRATEGIC-DOING: In May of 2019, Strategic Doing was selected as the framework for strategic planning at Northern State University. “Strategic Doing prioritizes action on shorter timelines driven by continual engagement, re ection and adjustment to realize pathway projects supporting the university’s mission, vision, and values. As a result, Strategic Doing is a continuous, dynamic and iterative process.” Select items from the Student A airs Strategic Action Plan will be proposed and executed through one of the ve Pillar Teams. See Campus of Distinction: A Framework for Strategic Action for more details. COLLABORATIONS: e Objectives and Key Results listed in this plan cannot be accomplished without partnerships throughout the University. While many are listed, additional collaborators are sincerely solicited. Whenever possible, students and student organizations will be included in this important work. ose who wish to collaborate, provide feedback, or request a paper copy of this plan may come to 222 Avera Student Center. MISSION Northern State University will provide diverse academic, civic, social, and cultural opportunities that prepare students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors, while also enriching the local and regional community. VISION Northern State University will be regionally recognized as a student-centered, diverse community dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning, creativity, and global awareness. VALUES Northern State University’s students, faculty and sta are committed to the following values: Community Building a culture of inclusion, belonging and collegiality that respects diversity in knowledge, culture, and world view Discovery Pursuing rigor and excellence in education, inquiry, and engagement for the bene t of our students, state, and region Integrity Adhering to the highest standards of honesty, fairness, and transparency with a commitment to responsible stewardship of resources BACKGROUND: With the arrival of a new Dean of Students, conversations around the future priorities and needs of the Division of Student A airs began in early September 2020. Senior Sta approved a strategic plan framework on September 9, 2020 that ensured all Student A airs team members and external partners would have a variety of opportunities to discuss the mission, vision, values and future strategic objectives of Student A airs. In October 2020, a survey was developed and completed by sta that solicited their feedback on the perceived strengths, weaknesses, challenges, opportunities, culture, and employee satisfaction within the Division. A broad conversation was held during an extended All Sta Meeting on October 2, 2020 focused on identity, collaboration, and teambuilding. A er more contemplation and dra ing by Senior Sta , a dra plan was presented during an All Sta Meeting on November 20, 2020 for further discussion and feedback. In December 2020, the Student Government Association, the Campus and Community Coalition, and Senior Cabinet members were provided a preview and opportunity to provide feedback. During spring 2021 Senior Cabinet, the Student Government Association, Faculty Senate, e Diversity Action Committee, e Athletic Council on Community, Culture, and Social Justice, and Aberdeen Police Department Chief Dave McNeil provided important insights and additional feedback. e plan was o cially launched and endorsed by Senior Cabinet on February 2, 2021. Student Affairs | Strategic Action Plan 2021-2025 13