For the past year the Millersville University campus community, with input from alumni and the business community, has worked on a new strategic plan that will guide the institution for the next three years. Details of the plan were announced by Dr. John Anderson, president of Millersville University, at his 2014 Convocation address on September 5.

Anderson challenged the University community to join him in charting a new course. “The first step in moving forward” he said, “is to preserve what we do well: excellent academic programs; a commitment to civic engagement; embracing sustainability and diversity; having a caring and safe environment; a vibrant student life experience and sound fiscal management.” Anderson continued, “However, we are now dealing with shifting demographics, increased competition, changes in technology and challenging financial issues. It is time to take the bold path.”

New Mission and Vision statements were crafted to guide the University in developing the strategic plan which includes three goal focus areas: engaging learners, ensuring long-term success of the University, and embracing agility.

Strategies for implementing the plan include:

Increase student enrollment at the University to 10,000 by fall 2020.

Create an online college – 1,200 new students.

Increase out-of-state students by 400 additional students.

Increase international students by 200 additional students

Develop a one-stop Student Success Center that includes the entire array of student support services.

Begin offering doctoral programs – three programs in next three years.

Require students to participate in an internship or study abroad, conduct research in their field, or volunteer with a civic engagement project in order to graduate.

“I invite the campus community, our friends, and neighbors to join Millersville University, on our Bold Path,” said Anderson.

For more information on Millersville University’s strategic plan please visit http://www.millersville.edu/iea/planning/.