Centenary University’s Strategic Direction

Centenary University’s Strategic Direction will establish a clear, measurable framework to advance Student Success, strengthen Institutional Vitality, and deepen World Engagement. These three priorities are mutually reinforcing: student success depends on a sustainable institution; institutional vitality is strengthened through focus and distinction; and world engagement gives purpose, relevance, and visibility to Centenary’s mission. The entire University Community will have the opportunity to provide their input.

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Next Steps

We are deeply grateful to all who participated in the Round Table Conversations and helped shape the draft of the Centenary University Strategic Direction.

The Strategic Direction process began in December with the careful design of a participatory framework. That work led to five days of dynamic round table conversations involving more than 100 dedicated participants, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, donors, and board members. Each volunteered time and insight to help shape the future of Centenary University.

Together, participants identified strengths, challenges, directional strategies, and core values for the University. These insights were synthesized into a comprehensive Round Table Report that reflects the work of more than 20 round table conversations.

The Round Table Report was then shared through an online survey to invite broader feedback. That feedback, together with the report, informed the development of a concise, two‑page Draft Strategic Direction that articulates five goals and five core values. Members of the Round Tables are now invited to review and provide feedback on this draft.

Your voice matters. Please review the Draft Strategic Direction and share feedback by February 6 using the links below. All feedback will be carefully reviewed, and revisions will be made where there is shared understanding and consensus.

Also included below is a link to additional material from the Round Table Conversations. This material will be shared with departments, programs, and teams as they begin developing strategic directions aligned with the University Strategic Direction for their own areas. That document also outlines the process teams will use as they align their work with the University Strategic Direction.

Thank you for dedication, leadership, and commitment to Centenary University as we advance Student Success, University Vitality, and World Engagement.


Links

All input must be received by February 6.

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Timeline

    1. December 10. Announcement that Centenary University would engage in a Strategic Direction process and invite participation from the entire University community. Completed.

    2. December 19. Invitation to participate in Round Table Conversations. Completed.

    3. January 17–21. Round Table Conversations held. Completed.

    4. January 25. Round Table Report generated and shared with the University community for feedback. Completed.

    5. January 31. Draft Strategic Direction, including five goals and five values, circulated for community feedback. Completed.

    6. By February 11. Finalize the Draft Strategic Direction and submit to the Board of Trustees for review and vote.

    7. By February 20. Upon Board support, share the Strategic Direction with the entire University community.

    8. By April 22. Departmental goal alignment and budget integration (by April 15 or earlier).
          All departments, programs, and teams will:
      • Develop goals and strategies aligned with the University Strategic Direction
      • Document related processes and procedures 
      • Align FY 2026–2027 budgets with the Strategic Direction.

          9. By June 15. Board of Trustees review and approval of the University budget aligned with the new Strategic Direction.