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A Students First University

The 10-year strategic plan, Rowing, Not Drifting 2030, was developed following an extensive, collaborative process with university stakeholders.

Letter from The President

Rowing, Not Drifting 2030 brings to life our vision for the university and takes shape in the form of our vision statement, five vision elements, and 2030 outcomes that serve as the foundation in support of and in service to UNC students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community. It guides the work of our five phases over the next decade, as well as the implementation of our supporting key actions and tactics.

A University Unlike Any Other

Founded in 1889 and tucked between the Rocky Mountains and Colorado’s stunning high plains, UNC is a public doctoral research university committed to the success of its students, with more than 100 undergraduate programs and 120 graduate programs. The university’s expert faculty and tradition of research and hands-on learning gives students exceptional opportunities and a personalized education.

About Our Community

UNC students are diverse and hard-working, and there is no one “label” that defines them. Their unique talents, interests, and ambitions enrich the university’s culture and provides an environment unlike any other. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNC

Vision

The five vision elements and 2030 outcomes are part of the university's comprehensive vision. It guides our work throughout the entire strategic plan.

From Vision to Action

Rowing, Not Drifting 2030 is a living document, divided into five two-year phases that will guide and establish a broad foundation for UNC
to build upon. In 2020, the university transitioned from visioning work to establishing key actions and tactics for the first two years, ensuring institutional alignment with the strategic plan at all levels of the organization.

  • Phase I

    July, 1 2020 -
    June 30, 2022

    Infrastructure: Establishing a foundation for success 

  • Phase II

    July 1, 2022 - 
    June 30 2024

    Implementation: Building on foundational work  

  • Phase III

    July 1, 2024 - 
    June 30 2026

    Maturing: Deepening our impact

  • Phase IV

    July 1, 2026 - 
    June 30 2028

    Attending: Ensuring continued progress

  • Phase V

    July 1, 2028 - 
    June 30 2030

    Transitioning: Completing the plan and preparing for the next iteration

Measuring Success

The university will track, measure, and report progress for each two-year phase, and the entire strategic plan. Every two years, the university will engage collectively in formulating new key actions and tactics for the next phase of the plan. These new key actions and tactics will build from the successes of the previous phase. Each member of the university will have opportunities to provide input, share ideas, and the expectation to contribute in meaningful ways in support of current and future key actions and tactics.

In this manner, Rowing Not Drifting 2030 is not a document; rather, it is a process that is embedded in the UNC culture of continuous growth.

Andy Feinstein

Each member of our university community and every unit has a contribution to make on the journey toward realizing our vision for an even brighter future for UNC in 2030. I invite you to reflect upon the key actions and tactics and identify steps you can take to support the realization of our vision and the outcomes we have articulated.
-Andy Feinstein, UNC President

On Tuesday, April 26, President Feinstein hosted a Strategic Plan Town Hall with the university community. Results of a university-wide Rowing, Not Drifting 2030 survey were shared at a high level, in which the university solicited feedback regarding Phase 1 of the strategic plan and sought input for Phase 2. University leadership presented the preliminary key actions that have been identified in Phase 2, along with potential tactics to be associated with each key action. Roundtable discussions occurred after the presentation from executive leaders. 

Phase 2 Feedback