Vision Elements

Vision

The 10-year strategic plan—Rowing, Not Drifting 2030—was developed following an extensive, collaborative process with university stakeholders. In 2019, UNC developed a comprehensive vision that will serve the university over the next decade. The vision is composed of the vision statement, five vision elements, and 2030 outcomes that serve as the foundation in support of and in service to UNC’s students, faculty, staff, alumni, and extended community. It also guides the work of our five phases over the next decade, as well as the implementation of our supporting key actions and tactics.

Vision Statement

The University of Northern Colorado will be the institution that Colorado looks to as the future of higher education. Our students will experience a personalized education grounded in liberal arts and infused with critical and creative inquiry; establish relationships with faculty and staff that nurture individual development; gain the skills and knowledge that provide upward mobility among alumni; and share a commitment to the values of inclusion, equity, and diversity.

Five Vision Elements

The Five Vision Elements are the major building blocks of our vision, each of which describes an institutional priority. Each vision element outlines specific outcomes that will be achieved by 2030.

Students First

We exist to transform the lives of our students. We focus on all aspects of their success by making intentional decisions to meet their needs and the needs of our community.

2030 Outcomes:

  • UNC is student ready. We know and care about our students, we meet them where they are, and nurture their growth
  • We eliminate institutional barriers to our students’ progress
  • We are known for excellence in career readiness evidenced by the professional achievements and adaptability of our alumni
  • We empower students to make a difference through leadership, involvement, and advocacy
  • We acknowledge that all staff and faculty are educators who contribute to our students’ success

a young male student is shown signing in class

a young male student is shown signing in class

Empower Inclusivity

The diversity within our university and state is a distinct advantage that we celebrate and nurture. We ensure learning occurs through meaningful discussion of shared and different experiences, viewpoints, and ideas.

2030 Outcomes:

  • UNC celebrates the diverse backgrounds and intersecting identities of our community members and recognizes that we benefit from the
    talent and energy of all students, staff, and faculty
  • We reflect upon and learn from the experiences of historically marginalized communities
  • All individuals and perspectives are an integral part of our success and identity
  • Community members engage in robust discussions and share their experiences, viewpoints, and ideas in respectful ways

A group of four students are sitting talking to each other

A group of four students are sitting talking to each other

Enhance & Invest

The success of students relies on a healthy and strong team. We provide our faculty and staff with the support they need to succeed as professionals, educators, and in life. We foster an environment where their individual well-being and sense of belonging are vital to our collective success.

2030 Outcomes:

  • UNC is a desirable place to work where we attract and retain talented staff and faculty who feel their contributions are valued
  • We provide and support personal and professional development opportunities and recognize those who seek enrichment through learning on and off campus
  • Scholarship is an essential part of informed learning occurring in and out of the classroom
  • We share a responsibility to continuously improve campus climate and culture to ensure a collective sense of belonging

A teacher working with 2 students on an assignment

Teacher working with 2 students.

Innovate & Create

Learning occurs through critical inquiry, discovery, and creation. We leverage technology and capitalize on opportunities to innovate and improve instruction. We anticipate and address societal needs by transforming the campus into a creative laboratory that asks questions, solves problems, and shapes Colorado’s future.

2030 Outcomes:

  • UNC delivers the highest quality student experience in Colorado through our personalized approach to instruction
  • We provide distinctive educational experiences that address workforce, environmental, and societal opportunities and challenges
  • We contribute to and benefit from local and regional organizations to deliver an educational experience that equips students to successfully transition from college to career
  • Students, faculty, and staff engage in a purposeful approach to supporting creativity and discovery

Three students in ANT 320 Mock Dig

Three students in ANT 320 Mock Dig

Connect & Celebrate

Strong community connections provide authentic learning experiences and reciprocal partnerships and collaborations. We set the standard for how engaged universities enrich the lives of those on campus, throughout Colorado, and beyond.

2030 Outcomes:

  • UNC is the first-choice institution for students because of the quality of our programs, faculty, staff, and strategic relationships
  • Our alumni actively support UNC through advocacy, volunteerism, philanthropy, career advice, and employment opportunities
  • Arts, athletics, entertainment, cultural, and intellectual experiences are gateways to our university
  • We leverage our collective voice to promote UNC and Greeley with pride

April —UNC students celebrate breaking ground on the new

Empowerment Center Groundbreaking