Meredith Strategic Planning Process Update – October 2022

The process for creating the next iteration of the Meredith Forever strategic plan is now underway. As announced by President Jo Allen during her State of the College address in August, the College is gathering community input through a series of summits focused on each of the plan’s six pillars: pillars—educational excellence, optimal enrollment, facilities and IT, financial strength, marketing and visibility, and quality of life. 

The first summit was held on September 22. This session focused on enrollment and after an introduction from Provost Matthew Poslusny, included presentations from Director of Admissions Shery Boyles, Director of Financial Assistance Kevin Michaelsen, Director of the Student Success Center Tina Romanelli, Registrar Shelly McMahon, and Vice President for Marketing and Communications Kristi Eaves-McLennan.  

Topics covered included recruiting and marketing strategies for admissions, how financial assistance packages are determined, and retention efforts aimed at ensuring that students complete their Meredith degrees. Provost Poslusny closed with an overview of Meredith’s enrollment goals.

After the opening presentations, participants were able to discuss questions relating to enrollment in small groups, and this input was captured electronically. Discussion questions included whether Meredith should consider different course delivery options, student support ideas, and other retention strategies. Participants were also asked to consider how the departments in which they work support enrollment and retention.

A Strategic Planning 2023 MyMeredith site is in development. This site will house session recordings, slide presentations, and forms through which to submit input, for those unable to participate in the live events. An email will be sent to the campus community when the MyMeredith link is available.

Upcoming Strategic Planning Summits
The next summit, focused on the Educational Excellence Pillar, is scheduled for October 26 from 3:30 – 5 p.m. in Jones Auditorium.

The Marketing/Visibility Pillar Summit will be held on Thursday, November 17, 3:30 – 5 p.m.,  in Kresge Auditorium. 

The Quality of Life Pillar Summit will be held on Tuesday, November 29,  2 – 3:30 p.m., in Jones Auditorium.

Additional summits will be held in the spring semester, with the goal of completing all six pillars by the end of February.