A Students First University
The 10-year strategic plan, Rowing, Not Drifting 2030, was developed following an extensive, collaborative process with university stakeholders.
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.
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.
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 and the Phase 1 key actions and tactics.
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.
The strategic plan is comprised of five two-year phases. Each phase will include key actions and tactics that support the other.
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.
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.
Key Actions and Tactics
UNC will continually identify new opportunities, key actions, and tactics that support the vision of the university and the academic success and personal growth of students. Because of this commitment to serving our students, UNC continuously looks for ways to also enrich the experiences for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and our extended community. Diverse experiences, new programming, and engagement opportunities will be paramount to the work conducted throughout the next decade. UNC will progressively seek opportunities to demonstrate what a Students First university means today and into the future.
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 Phase I 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