Continuing the year-long sesquicentennial celebration, UToledo President Gregory Postel delivered his third annual State of the University Address in University Hall – the first building on the Bancroft campus, completed in 1931.
Postel described the University as an institution on the move, highlighting notable accomplishments from the past year including numerous student achievements, research discoveries, healthcare advancements and community engagement initiatives.
UToledo President Gregory Postel delivered his third annual State of the University Address in University Hall – the first building on the Bancroft campus, completed in 1931.
His speech showcased the University’s new strategic plan, which was approved by the Board of Trustees in February.
“Looking ahead to the next 150 years, we are reimagining the future of public higher education and our role as a leading public research university,” Postel said. “Our new strategic plan sets the direction for the next five years as together we focus on building a stronger, sustainable institution with a redesigned brand that showcases the value of our education, research and patient care.”
The University’s new strategic plan, UToledo Reimagined (2023-2028), includes six priority areas that will provide the framework for the next five years. Postel highlighted each of the goals and his vision for moving them forward.
Ensuring student success is the top goal.
“Student success is and must continue to be at the heart of everything we do,” the president said.
He noted several campus projects focused on improving the student experience, including the new Center for Advocacy and Student Experience that opened this fall.
The second goal in the plan, to deliver relevant and innovative academic programs, was underscored by recently announced degree programs.
“We must continue to refine and develop academic programs that are rigorous and relevant — not just for today’s job needs, but for those of the future,” Postel said.
Setting the standard for health education and patient care, the third goal in the Strategic Plan, is supported by the new UToledo Health structure that is bringing together hospital and clinical operations to meet the healthcare needs of the community.
Postel cited recent national recognitions from U.S. News and World Report and the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities as evidence of efforts to meet the fourth goal to distinguish and fuel UToledo’s growing reputation.
Fostering a people-centered culture, the fifth goal, is supported by recruiting and retaining exceptional talent, the president said, recognizing UToledo faculty and staff who continue to receive national and international recognition.
The final goal in the Strategic Plan is to position the institution for success through financial and operational effectiveness. The president noted that higher education is being challenged across the country and UToledo must prioritize investments for growth and innovation, while reducing or eliminating some aspects of the organization that no longer align with these priorities.
“This is indeed a pivotal moment for our University, requiring each of us to be a part of the solution. Bring forward your great ideas. Let us face these challenges head on,” he said. “Together, let us embrace this opportunity to reimagine UToledo.”
