Building on more than 170 years of academic innovation, groundbreaking research and public service, the University of Minnesota is setting an ambitious new course designed to propel the institution into its next era of excellence.
President Rebecca Cunningham presented the University’s proposed strategic roadmap to the Board of Regents at its October meeting.
“For 174 years the University has served as the North Star for all of Minnesota through teaching, research and service. If that North Star is going to shine even brighter for the next 174 years, we need to be sure it’s guiding us on a path to elevate what is already extraordinary,” Cunningham said. “This roadmap is not a dreamy wish list – it’s a focused, concerted effort to build on our strengths, distinction and momentum, and to dig deeper into what makes the University a singularly outstanding place. This roadmap belongs to every part of this University, and everyone who calls it home.”
The roadmap is guided by five strategic imperatives:
- Prepare students to be fully engaged and active in the state, nation and world
- Innovate to transform the future of learning
- Serve communities through knowledge creation and exchange in the arts, health, healthcare and the economy
- Advance our excellence to lead in the discovery and application of sustainable solutions, improving environmental, human, plant and animal health
- Secure a continued future as a world-class university by strategically investing in a talented workforce, operations, and facilities
“As it looks ahead, the University of Minnesota is embracing a vision that redefines what is possible, and reaffirms its position as one of America’s leading research universities and a cornerstone of the state’s future,” said Ryan Schmiesing, vice president for strategic initiatives.
Work within the five imperatives includes strengthening the 'one University, five campus' model, developing new learning frameworks, partnering with Minnesota employers to drive economic and workforce growth, expanding the rural health workforce, advancing AI research, and reimagining the St. Paul campus.
This renewed vision comes as the University continues to lead across a wide spectrum of disciplines — from research in water and sustainability to spatial mapping, humanities and the arts, experiential learning, collaboration and partnership with Minnesota’s Tribal Nations, and more. The roadmap is designed to build on the collective action already underway at the University.
“This is a plan for all Minnesota and for all Minnesotans,” said Board Chair Doug Huebsch. “From our water, to the food we eat, and the healthcare we have, it encompasses the whole state, all 87 counties.”
The Board will vote on the proposed strategic roadmap at a future meeting.
The Board also:
- Administered the oath of office to Regents Bergstrom, Heins, Luger and Mohamed.
- Received an update on innovative learning practices from across the University.
- Approved the six-year capital plan and 2026 State capital request.
- Approved collective bargaining agreements with Minnesota Teamsters Local 320 and AFSCME Council 5 Local 3800
- Reviewed the University operating budget process and model.
- Received an update from Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison on the strategic facilitation process for Minnesota healthcare.
- Received the annual report of the University of Minnesota Foundation.
The Board’s Virtual Forum accepts audio, video and written input, which is shared directly with Regents and included in the Board’s public materials. The public is encouraged to visit the Virtual Forum to submit their comments.
The Board of Regents is scheduled to meet next December 11-12. Visit regents.umn.edu for more information.
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