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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)What is a strategic plan? A strategic plan delineates a course for change and transition within an institution. While a strategic plan can be devised for any type of organization from a governing body to a corporation or an institution of higher learning, any strategic plan ought to include some basic elements including the organization's mission statement, a shared vision and a set of strategies for realizing that vision. One aspect of Strategic Planning within institutions of higher learning is the idea of "successive approximation on a general sense of direction." By this we are not interested in precise and specific concerns that must be addressed in the future. Instead, Strategic Planning considers where the institution is and where it is going. Strategic Planning differs from conventional long-term planning in that it hinges on an external perspective rather than internal concerns. Similarly, The Strategic Plan is meant to encourage the participative integration of myriad vantage points as opposed to the dictates of a limited office or a select few. Finally, when it is successfully executed, a Strategic Plan does amount to a plan at all but rather culminates in a process that will lead the institution to a new realm of growth and development. Back to Top Why is a strategic plan needed? A Strategic Plan considers where an institution has been to determine where it is going. It provides the institution and its members with a comprehensive roadmap full of vital information - where they started; where they have been; where they want to go; alternative routes and even alternative destinations. With a Strategic Plan, one particular destination or goal may be intended, but through the planning process, other goals and possible destinations are identified. In addition to direction for the institution, the Plan also provides a context whereby priorities must be identified and decisions about the future must be made according to external and internal considerations. Finally, the actual process of establishing a Strategic Plan give an institution the opportunity to build clarity and consensus around a shared vision of the institution's future. Back to Top What is the scope of our strategic plan? Jackson State University's Strategic Plan will be developed by three separate entities, each shaping and directing the contribution of the other two. The campus community, the Kaludis Consulting Group and the Blue Ribbon Commission each play an important role in charting a course of action for Jackson State University's future. Within the University community, each division will be encouraged to do some internal analysis and restructuring to keep their units in accord with the university's plan. Back to Top What is the Blue Ribbon Commission? The Blue Ribbon Commission consists of 16 individuals who are considered experts in their respective fields from economic development, corporate relations, government and higher education. Chaired by Jackson State University President Emeritus, Dr. John A. Peoples, Jr., the Blue Ribbon Commission will function as Jackson State's window to the outside world. The Commission will also examine and structure assignments for the campus work groups and assist in the development and implementation of the University's External Operational Plan. Back to Top What is the right time to begin a planning process? Jackson State is now at an ideal moment to initiate a Strategic Plan. With the installation of a new administration and the completion of a SACS Self Study, we are primed to take account of where we are and where we want to go. Information for the SACS Accreditation visit will be instrumental in establishing a current profile of the University. Similarly, the Strategic Plan will facilitate the transition and adjustment to a new administration by building clarity and consensus around a vision that the University's constituents share. Back to Top How will this planning effort differ from prior efforts at the university (e.g. SACS Self Study)? While the SACS Self Study demanded a close examination of the internal operations and structure of various University divisions, the Strategic Plan will consider these factions with respect to the external influences that will shape their future. In addition, while there have been previous strategic initiatives on campus, this Strategic Plan will be carefully structured in phases to ensure its thorough and complete implementation throughout the University. Clear, definitive steps will be articulated and executed by this Strategic Plan that will effect change throughout the campus community and beyond. Back to Top
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