U of I's strategic plan
Building Idaho’s future, together
We are proud to unveil the University of Idaho’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan — a bold and actionable roadmap grounded in our land-grant mission and powered by innovation, experiential learning and statewide partnership.
Shaped through a year-long collaborative process involving hundreds of Vandals, this plan is a shared commitment to excellence, access and impact. Together, we will prepare the next generation, strengthen communities and position University of Idaho as a national leader in higher education.
Our mission
To shape the future of Idaho and beyond through innovative research, education, and community engagement.
Our vision
To prepare students to thrive by reimagining experiential learning and transforming how and where education is delivered. We will drive economic growth and improve quality of life through strategic partnerships and impactful research.
Our core values
These values guide our work and our community.
- Excellence
- Respect
- Integrity
- Perseverance
- Stewardship
Strategic Plan Investment Grant Program
Learn about a one-time funding opportunity to support bold, high-impact ideas to jumpstart implementation.
Information sessions
Information sessions about the Strategic Plan Investment Grant Program will be held on the following dates:
For those who were unable to attend, view a recording of the first info session.
Our strategic pillars
Ignite student success
We are transforming the student experience through personalized support, AI-powered tools and a commitment to access and value.
- A1: Deliver high-impact, high-value education for Idaho students.
- A2: Reimagine the first-year experience using technology and mentorship.
- A3: Teach all students to ethically and effectively use AI.
- A4: Expand access to a vibrant, welcoming campus life.
Drive experiential learning
Every Vandal will graduate with hands-on experience that connects classroom learning to the real world.
- B1: Expand faculty-guided and self-directed research opportunities.
- B2: Deepen community, employer, and global partnerships.
- B3: Build systems to support 100% student participation in experiential learning.
Adapt the educational model
We are creating flexible, workforce-aligned educational pathways for all learners.
- C1: Ensure the Vandal experience is accessible to every learner.
- C2: Invest in online, hybrid, and place-based learning.
- C3: Build seamless transfer and articulation networks.
- C4: Expand adult education and stackable credentials.
Harness research innovation and partnership
We conduct research that matters — for Idaho and the world.
- D1: Prioritize emerging research areas with clear ROI.
- D2: Invest in facilities, data infrastructure, and research talent.
- D3: Align academic programs with workforce and industry needs.
- D4: Strengthen partnerships with government, industry, and other institutions.
- D5: Address Idaho's healthcare workforce shortage.
Optimize operational excellence
We are streamlining operations and investing in our people to maximize impact.
- E1: Create a unified data warehouse to power decision-making.
- E2: Automate and simplify processes through AI.
- E3: Recruit, develop, and retain exceptional faculty and staff.
- E4: Build a culture of execution, transparency, and collaboration.
Explore the strategic plan
University of Idaho’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan is a bold and actionable roadmap grounded in our land-grant mission and powered by innovation, experiential learning and statewide partnership.
Putting the plan into action
Strategic leadership
Implementation is a shared responsibility. Faculty, staff, and leaders across the university will collaborate through cross-functional working groups to execute initiatives and monitor progress. Pillar Champions will lead their respective areas, ensuring alignment, transparency, and accountability.
- Pillar champions
- Student success: Brooke Blevins, Ph.D., Dean, College of Education, Health and Human Sciences
- Experiential learning: Dean Kahler, Ph.D., M.P.A., Vice Provost Strategic Enrollment Management
- Educational model: Andrew Fields, Ed.D., CEO University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene
- Research and partnership: Dennis Becker, Ph.D., Dean, College of Natural Resources
- Operational excellence: Lisa Victoravich, Ph.D., Dean, College of Business and Economics
- AI champion
- Ben Hunter, Ph.D., Dean, University Libraries — Supporting AI integration across all pillars
- Strategic plan execution manager
- Michele Bartlett, Director of executive projects and strategic initiatives
Strategic Plan Investment Grant Program
To jumpstart implementation, we are launching a one-time funding opportunity to support bold, high-impact ideas that:
- Deliver a strong ROI
- Advance one or more strategic pillars
- Foster cross-unit collaboration
- Leverage emerging technologies like AI
Key Details
- Who can apply: All U of I faculty and staff (with department/college sign-off)
- Funding range: $5,000+; multi-year proposals considered
- Requirements: Cover page, narrative, budget & justification. See application for more details
- Deadline: Oct. 1
- Awards announced: After Nov. 1
- Funding available immediately upon the grant being approved.
- Final reports due: Sept. 1, 2026 (progress reports required for multi-year awards)
Show your pride
Take the future with you, wherever you go. Download screen savers, Zoom backgrounds and wallpapers to go with the strategic plan.
How we’ll measure success
Our Strategic Plan is more than a document — it is a shared commitment to the future we want to build. Success will require all of us to roll up our sleeves, think boldly, collaborate across boundaries, and embrace the innovative spirit that defines what it means to be a Vandal.
Key institutional performance indicators
- Annual enrollment
- Retention and graduation rates
- Graduate starting salaries
- R&D expenditures
- Best Value ranking (U.S. News & World Report)