University roadmap shapes the future of learning, discovery and service

The University of Minnesota’s Board of Regents today unanimously approved a bold new strategic roadmap that charts a unified, forward-looking vision for the state’s flagship land-grant institution. Building on the collective action already underway at the University, this roadmap defines how the University will prepare students, strengthen communities, and secure its future as a world-class public research university.

President Rebecca Cunningham previously presented the plan, Elevate Extraordinary 2030, to the Board of Regents at its October meeting. 

“This roadmap is built by the University and for the University,” said President Rebecca Cunningham. “It reflects our commitment to serve every corner of the state — preparing our students for meaningful careers, supporting local industries, strengthening rural and urban communities, and driving innovation that benefits all Minnesotans.”

Rooted in the University’s enduring commitment to statewide public service, the roadmap outlines five strategic imperatives designed to advance student success, strengthen Minnesota communities, and secure the University’s leadership as one of the nation’s top public research institutions. 

Preparing students for leadership and service
The University will transform the student experience to ensure graduates are ready to lead in Minnesota’s workforce and communities. A “One University on Five Campuses” approach will connect students across Crookston, Duluth, Morris, Rochester, and the Twin Cities.

Initiatives include expanding internships, research, and hands-on learning, addressing student mental health and food security, and enhancing civic engagement and civil discourse programs.

Innovating how Minnesotans learn
As technology and society evolve, the University aims to lead in educational innovation. Plans call for creating interdisciplinary programs that solve real-world problems, developing a statewide online learning hub for lifelong learners, and integrating artificial intelligence into teaching and professional development.

These efforts will make education more flexible, accessible, and responsive to Minnesota’s changing workforce needs.

Serving communities and strengthening Minnesota’s economy
Community engagement is at the heart of the University’s land-grant mission. Through partnerships with Tribal Nations, state agencies, and employers, the University will expand programs that build local economies, support entrepreneurs, and improve health outcomes.

Highlights include expanding rural healthcare training, growing the Native American Promise Tuition Program, launching an Integrative Arts Initiative, and using the University’s spatial and mapping technology to address local challenges from agriculture to urban planning.

Leading in sustainability and innovation
Minnesota’s natural environment is one of its greatest assets, and the University will continue to protect and enhance it through world-class research and discovery. The roadmap prioritizes leadership in clean water, climate resilience, sustainable food systems, and One Health approaches linking human, animal, and environmental well-being.

The University will also expand its AI research initiatives, ensuring technology is developed and applied responsibly to solve global and local challenges.

Investing in Minnesota’s people, places and possibilities
The University’s strength lies in its people and campuses. To remain a world-class institution, the roadmap calls for investing in faculty and staff, modernizing facilities, and embedding sustainability in all operations.

A signature initiative will be the reimagining of the St. Paul campus — transforming it into a vibrant hub for agricultural innovation, bio-based research, and community partnerships that drive Minnesota’s economy.

“We take incredible pride in the University’s deep connection to the state. This strategic plan ensures the University of Minnesota remains a force for good — for students, for communities, and for the future of Minnesota,” said Doug Huebsch, Chair of the Board of Regents. “From healthcare and agriculture to the arts and innovation, the University of Minnesota is deeply woven into the state’s success.”

Board affirms duty to protect Medical School, statewide health mission

The Board of Regents also approved a resolution affirming that UMP does not have the authority to negotiate agreements affecting the Medical School without University approval. 

On Nov. 12, Fairview Health Services and UMP management announced a proposed agreement, reached while excluding the University from negotiations, which would have a profoundly negative impact on the University, Medical School and Minnesota. UMP, a legally separate entity from the University, is ​the management services company that supports the delivery of patient care. ​

Read more about the resolution.

The Board of Regents is scheduled to meet next on December 11-12. Visit regents.umn.edu for more information. 

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.