All Eyes on 2029 – Reimagine, Revitalize, Reconnect, Reshape: Strategic Planning Reset

On August 5, 40 HDAE leaders came together for a one-day Strategic Planning Reset. The retreat was designed to re-energize, reimagine, and refocus our collective efforts as HDAE prepares for significant changes over the next five years. With two new residential complexes set to welcome 3,500 more students and approximately 100 new staff members by 2029, this was a timely and important event. The day was highly productive, sparking fresh ideas, fostering deeper collaboration, and laying a clear foundation for the future.

A Positive Atmosphere. The retreat provided participants the opportunity to step away from their daily routines and time pressures to think creatively about the challenges and opportunities ahead. The intentionally structured agenda led to an open and collaborative environment where all voices were heard, making the session both meaningful and impactful. By the day’s end, participants remained energized and eager to tackle the next steps.

Engaging Presentations and New Connections. The centerpiece of the retreat were the series of high-level presentations from each HDAE department, where goals and upcoming projects were outlined. These were followed by two interactive group exercises – World Café and Rapid Prototyping - facilitated by Steve Dewart. Together these exercises resulted in new connections and ideas, with participants from other units offering their own thoughts, perspectives, and ideas to the mix. The result? Many ideas generated during the retreat were not only innovative but also highly actionable and achievable. For example, in the Associate Vice Chancellor’s Office our Learning & Development unit is hard at work designing a three-tiered Management/Leadership Program. This initiative received the highest number of votes in the World Café exercise. We expect to launch this highly desired and necessary project in the Winter or Spring of 2025!

Keeping the Momentum Going. To maintain the retreat's momentum, join us at the Fall Town Hall on October 22, where a high-level overview of the outcomes will be presented, including an example of rapid prototyping and its practical application. 

The next five years will be transformative for HDAE, and we look forward to working alongside you to redefine the campus landscape and reimagine our efforts to serve students and the campus community.