University of Iowa Updates Strategic Plan with New Goals and Metrics

The University of Iowa is charting a new course with its midcycle update to the 2022-2027 Strategic Plan, set to be reviewed by the Iowa Board of Regents on February 27. This update is a pivotal step to align the university’s objectives with recent amendments to the Board of Regents Strategic Plan and new state legislation, particularly Iowa Code Chapter 261J. By revisiting its goals, the university aims to assess progress, adjust strategies, and set new ambitions for the future.

At the midpoint of its strategic timeline, the University of Iowa has already exceeded expectations in several key areas, including student retention, graduation rates, research initiatives, and healthcare service expansion. The updated strategic plan is a reflection of both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the university.

Refinement of Success Metrics and Goals

With the midcycle update, the University of Iowa has recalibrated its success metrics and goals for 2027, focusing on retention, graduation, and healthcare services. Notable adjustments include:

• An increase in the fall-to-fall retention target for first-year undergraduates from 90% to 91% by 2027.
• A rise in the target for four-year undergraduate completion rates from 58% to 65%.
• Aiming for a 30% increase in average patient encounters across UI Health Care settings from the plan’s inception.
• Shifting focus from underrepresented minority retention and graduation gaps to supporting low-income students, particularly Pell Grant recipients.
• Eliminating metrics like campus climate survey participation rates that are no longer measurable.

Enhancing Access and Opportunity

The University of Iowa continues to prioritize an inclusive and engaging environment, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds. As part of the strategic plan update:

• The core value of inclusion has been expanded to ensure all individuals feel valued and are encouraged to contribute to collective success.
• The definition of diversity now encompasses a broader array of perspectives, experiences, and viewpoints.
• The priority “Welcoming and Inclusive Environment” is now “Welcoming Environment,” aligning with the mission of the new Division of Access, Opportunity, and Diversity and complying with Iowa Code Chapter 261J.
• Objectives have been refined to emphasize access and opportunity for students, faculty, and staff.
• Strategies focused on civic dialogue and engagement remain integral, highlighting Iowa’s dedication to fostering respect and understanding across differences.

These updates are designed to keep the strategic plan in line with the university’s mission and vision, leveraging early successes to address the dynamic needs of the campus community. The University of Iowa strives to be a preferred destination for talented individuals. For more details on the midcycle update, visit the strategic plan website at strategicplan.uiowa.edu following the February 27 meeting.

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