Within this context, our strategic planning efforts are more critical than ever before. This 1997 plan is the continuation of a pragmatic planning model initiated in 1994 under the leadership of Dr. Joel Baseman, which included broad faculty and staff participation, including input from the Faculty Councils of the various schools. The current planning process has integrated the collaborative wisdom from throughout the institution, under the committee leadership of Dr. Suellen Reed, and the outcome provides a clear focus of direction on key issues that demand our involvement and commitment. Each of the objectives and strategies that support the five goals of this plan are significant initiatives that will require specific actions by various elements of the Health Science Center. As the institution proceeds along this planning azimuth, three overarching issues must be kept in focus.
Every institution is challenged to accomplish efficient means of communication.
All members must have access to information, and perceive that the organization is committed to ensuring a proactive communication process. Each and all of us are encouraged to be mindful of our own responsibilities in communicating with our various constituencies both within and outside the Health Science Center. Secondly, our planning process must continually be refined, much as the Institutional Strategic Planning document is viewed as a living resource tool that will evolve and change over time. To facilitate awareness and involvement by all members, we will place this planning document on our web page to make it accessible to anyone who has an interest. A third major focal point is the encouragement and support of resource sharing within the Health Science Center.