Strategic Planning Framework update, input sessions for support staff

This message was sent to staff on Feb. 28 on behalf of Dr. Joanne Keselman, Vice-President (Academic) and Provost and Chair, Strategic Planning Framework Committee. We re-post it here.

Dear Colleagues:

I am writing to provide a status report on the process to update the University of Manitoba’s Strategic Planning Framework.  Last month, you received President David Barnard’s message, which served to launch this process, beginning with the establishment of a Strategic Planning Committee charged with the task of overseeing the development of an updated plan for consideration by our governing bodies.

As indicated in the President’s message, this undertaking was to begin with a period of extensive consultation. This consultation began in early February and will continue until the end of March, 2014.  To date, more than 50 input sessions are planned involving faculty/school councils, administrative groups, special meetings of select Senate Committees as well as forums for students, support staff, alumni and donors.  Each of these facilitated input sessions will be hosted by a member of the Strategic Planning Committee.  Participants will be invited to share their views on the following questions:

1. To what economic, social, political, demographic trends do we need to pay particular attention as we plan for the future of our University?

2. As a university community, we aspire to provide an outstanding experience to all those who engage with us. What does an outstanding experience look like for:

• students?
• faculty?
• staff?
• alumni/donors?
• community partners?

3. In light of questions 1. and 2., what should we focus on and/or do differently as we look to the future?

The Committee is eager to hear your views through these input sessions and very much hopes that you will be able to participate. Should this not be the case, however, we are also providing the opportunity for you to submit your feedback on these questions through the website.

I would like to acknowledge the work ahead for the Strategic Planning Committee and thank you in advance for your input into the development of our 2014-2019 Strategic Planning Framework.

Please note that all future communiqués will be received through the UM Today newsfeed or directly on the Strategic Planning Committee website