Approvals:
11/28/05
USF-SM Campus Board

2/20/06 ACE Work Group

3/2/06
USF Board of Trustees

FROM THE CAMPUS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
                       
Arthur M. Guilford, Ph.D.   

This strategic plan sets the course for the next five years. The campus strategic planning committee worked diligently over the past year to frame a plan that anticipates these changes and meets our community’s aspirations. Some 300 individuals, on and off campus, gave their advice and time to the process. A joint Community Leadership Council and Campus Board retreat in June provided inspiration and guidance. Our plan will continue to change as the University plan is revised.

The strategic plan is closely tied to USF’s plan and our vision as “an indispensable asset in economic and human resource development and a source of pride for all residents.” This vision depends upon attracting outstanding faculty and staff who meet the standards of a national research university, as well as graduating students competent in their disciplines and embracing life-long learning. The progress made in the past five years owes a significant debt to the continuing commitment and dedication of our legislative leaders. The plan will require the continuing support of our community and these public officials, who serve so effectively in the Florida Legislature.

The plan recognizes significant changes in several areas, including the comprehensive use of learning technology and the demand for professional and continuing education. The inclusion of these goals was heavily influenced by our students and community members. The plan not only includes goals and strategic actions, but also provides a financial plan and accountability measures to support them. These elements will help manage the plan and support adjustments based upon resources and results. It also serves as a foundation document for the master plan amendment process required by state law.

More than three years ago, a faculty-led team adopted an ambitious mission statement for USF Sarasota-Manatee. The mission extols the importance of collaboration among faculty, staff and administrators, as well as on-going self-assessment. The work of the strategic planning committee exemplifies this standard. I applaud the work of each committee member and especially Dr. Peter French, chairman, and Dr. Bonnie Jones, director of institutional research, who memorialized much of the committee’s work in this document.

Sincerely,

Arthur M. Guilford, Ph.D.
Vice President and Campus Chief Executive Officer