NMU Strategic Plan

As the NMU community looks to the future, it is important that we anticipate our challenges and opportunities. This interim strategic plan will help us to tell the story of who we are at Northern Michigan University, while at the same time it will serve as a starting point to guide new leadership as they begin to learn about all that makes us distinctly Northern. This interim plan will act as a guidepost supporting all the members of the NMU community—students, staff, faculty and administrators—as we continue building toward a shared vision.

Transitions in leadership positions such as the president, provost, and chief diversity officer will mean significant change for the future of NMU. This plan will provide the needed guidelines for where we see ourselves going, our envisioned future.

I am confident that our university will continue to provide our students with an outstanding educational experience; one that supports all students in achieving their goals. As we all work to keep the shared vision found in this plan, and our commitment and dedication to our mission, vision and values, it is clear to me that the future of NMU is vibrant and alive with endless possibilities and potential.

I have had the privilege to serve NMU in many capacities, and in each role I have appreciated the dedication and commitment our faculty, staff and students make every single day to keep Northern’s future bright. My love for our students and all of you who support them will stay with me forever. Go Wildcats!

Dr. Kerri Schuiling
President
Northern Michigan University

My colleagues and I on the Northern Michigan University Board of Trustees agree that a strong university is best positioned to thrive in a changing educational landscape when a clear, understandable, and above all, actionable strategic plan communicates shared goals and strategies for meeting tomorrow’s challenges. The Board is looking forward to bringing a new president to Northern with the hope that this plan sets them up for success.

The NMU 2022 Interim Strategic Plan both positions Northern today for a healthy transition of leadership and sets us up for tomorrow as we look to remain strong for generations to come. We on the Board appreciate the work faculty, staff and students have devoted to the following plan. We are excited to share it with the NMU community, candidates for the presidency and all interested parties.

Stephen Young
Chair of the Board of Trustees
Northern Michigan University

NMU MISSION

Northern Michigan University’s distinctive academic and career programs are nurtured by exceptional teaching and extensive opportunities for scholarship, creativity and engagement. Our supportive, connected community empowers students, graduates, faculty and staff to contribute to a diverse and sustainable world.

NMU VISION

Northern Michigan University promotes an active environment to foster strong minds and bodies, inspires innovation and inclusion through community engagement, and develops leaders capable of local and global impact.

CORE VALUES

Community
Opportunity
Rigor
Environment
Inclusion
Connections
Innovation

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 rural location and expertise to serve rural communities by providing health services, economic models, workforce talent and continuing education opportunities that specifically support rural communities.

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.