University of Virginia Engages Community in Strategic Planning Through Extensive Survey and Workshops
The University of Virginia has embarked on an ambitious journey to shape its future goals, involving over 13,600 community members through a comprehensive survey. This initiative is part of the University’s strategic planning process, known as Grounds for Conversation, aimed at gathering insights to guide its long-term objectives.
Since January, under the leadership of University President Scott Beardsley, the University has involved its schools and units in a listening tour. A significant step in this process was the formation of a 22-member strategic planning committee in July. Co-chaired by School of Engineering Dean Jennifer West and Vice President for Strategic Initiatives Marc Johnson, the committee developed the survey to capture community perspectives on the University’s strengths and areas for improvement.
This fall, the committee is also conducting 35 in-person workshops for students, faculty, and staff, both on-campus and nationwide, with virtual participation options available. These workshops are designed to collect further feedback and innovative ideas. Additionally, the committee is analyzing data on the University’s current standing and comparing it with other institutions to refine their strategies.
Expressing gratitude for the community’s input, West stated, “We want to hear from as many areas of the University as possible, and I am grateful for each person who has taken the time to share their thoughts, complete the survey and sign up for workshops. Ultimately, your feedback will help University leadership to map out a strategic plan that truly fits with UVA’s mission and values, and that identifies and plans for the resources we will need to carry this flagship institution forward.”
Survey responses were diverse, featuring contributions from 6,500 alumni, 3,700 staff members, 2,100 parents and family members, 1,650 students, 1,600 community members and friends, and 1,350 faculty, with some participants representing multiple affiliations.
Common themes emerged from the feedback, envisioning UVA’s future as a beacon of academic and research excellence, dedicated to accessible education, promoting a community of honor, trust, integrity, and open dialogue, and emphasizing citizen leadership and world-class patient care along with community partnership.
Respondents evaluated UVA’s performance in four mission areas: education, research, clinical care, and public service. According to the survey, 75% rated research as “doing well” or better, 74% rated clinical care similarly, 73% were positive about education, while public service received a 56% approval rating.
In terms of strategic priorities, 65% of respondents emphasized academic and research excellence and the student experience as top priorities. Other important areas included institutional culture and governance, employee well-being and operations, and community engagement and impact.
During the September Board of Visitors meeting, President Beardsley highlighted the encouraging feedback from students and parents, noting the faculty’s high response rate. He observed a trend where those most involved in specific areas tended to be the most critical, exemplified by clinical providers and faculty rating their respective domains lowest, reflecting a high standard of self-expectation within the community.
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