NMU Strategic Plan - Office of the President

DISTINCTLY NORTHERN CORE VALUES

Community
Inclusion
Opportunity    
Connection
Rigor    
Innovation
Environment    
Wellbeing

MISSION

Northern Michigan University empowers learners with distinct and meaningful experiences that open doors to extraordinary opportunities.

Our purpose is to foster close connections between learners, leaders, communities, and the natural environment in order to nurture and inspire creative problem solvers, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens dedicated to promoting the health and vitality of the Upper Peninsula, Michigan, and beyond.

VISION

Like the lake that inspires us, Northern Michigan University will be known as Superior – in the ways we support our people, partner with our place, and realize the potential of all our students.

OUR GRAND CHALLENGES

01  Supporting our People

Executive Sponsor: Rhea Dever, Vice President, People Culture and Wellbeing

Wellbeing of people, places, and the planet are interconnected and integral to NMU’s educational mission. Embracing the Okanagan Charter and its Calls to Action, along with our commitment to honor and nurture the role of Indigenous perspectives and peoples locally and globally, will ensure all Wildcats the opportunity to thrive professionally and personally.

02  Partnering with our Place

Executive Sponsor: Gavin Leach, Vice President, Finance and Administration

Increasing our focus on purposeful partnerships strengthens NMU’s connection to its community, fostering a thriving and resilient Upper Peninsula where Wildcats make positive impacts as career-ready, community-engaged citizens.

03  Realizing the Potential of All our Students: 100/Best/Zero

Executive Sponsor: Anne Dahlman, Provost and Vice President, Academic Affairs

NMU is driven to prepare our students for success in an ever-changing world. Increasing focus on high impact practices (HIPs), comprehensive advising, and flexible learning formats and credentials will provide all Wildcats the equal opportunity to graduate on time and achieve lifelong success.

Grow and support our student body by identifying new markets, developing new academic offerings, and supporting our students’ mental and physical health.

Create and embrace a university-wide culture of inclusion and belonging for all members of the NMU community.

Leverage our unique location and expertise to serve rural communities by providing services that enrich our community, improve health, increase access to continuing education opportunities, and support sustainable economic development.

Enhance and grow sustainability efforts and education throughout the planning, operations, education, research and service aspects of the university.

Ensure long-term emergency planning success by reflecting on what we have learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.