Strategic Innovation Initiatives

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  University Strategic Innovation Initiatives
  2009-2010
  University Leadership Initiative

In September 2009, President Duane Nellis announce the selection of eight strategic innovation initiatives, developed by University faculty, staff and administrators, that would move the University of Idaho forward by doing things differently and better.
The initiatives include:

• Enhancing Recruitment and Retention through Engaged Teaching and Learning
• Parfleche Exchange Program with tribal and college/university communities
• Growing Research and Scholarship by Instituting Institutes, Centers and Core Facilities 
• Building Influence through Advocacy Networks 
• Building the University of Idaho Statewide System 
• Continuous Improvement of Business and Academic Processes
• Creating a Respectful Culture 
• Waste Minimization 

Each initiative is being implemented and results already can be seen or felt.

For example, as part of the Waste Minimization initiative, led by Sustainability Director Darin Saul, University Communications and Marketing converted this faculty-staff newsletter you now are reading to an online publication – an effective example of reducing paper waste on campus.. In addition, food waste from campus is being composted locally. Future projects and educational outreach will continue to focus University practices on sustainable practices and reduce the University’s carbon footprint.

The Continuous Improvement of Business and Academic Processes Initiative, led by Larry Stauffer, associate dean of the College of Engineering, has solicited ideas from faculty, staff and students on ways the University can be more efficient and effective. They looked for comments on business and academic practices that are not user-friendly or result in poor customer satisfaction. They also looked for observations that could lead to a more enjoyable and effective work environment. The team will identify three or four projects to address as a demonstration of what can be done by pursuing a culture of continuous improvement.