Operational Priorities
Building a Stronger, More Dynamic Future
At the University of Connecticut, we stand at a defining moment. One that demands bold action, shared purpose, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Our operational priorities reflect a clear vision for strengthening the University’s foundation while preparing UConn to lead in an era of rapid change. These priorities are grounded in data, guided by institutional values, and driven by the belief that UConn must continue championing innovation, student success, and economic mobility for the state of Connecticut and beyond.
Together, these operational priorities form a roadmap to elevate UConn’s academic, economic, and social impact, realizing the goals of our strategic plan. They reflect we are and who we strive to be, which is a forward-thinking, inclusive, nationally renowned public research university committed to transforming lives and communities. This is UConn’s path forward.
Continuous Improvement and Enterprise Effectiveness
We are advancing a culture of continuous improvement and enterprise effectiveness to ensure UConn remains financially resilient and operationally strong. This means strengthening data-informed decision-making, enhancing efficiency across the institution, and modernizing systems to better support students, faculty, and staff. Our work centers on optimizing resources, fostering accountability, and delivering operational excellence at scale, all to reinforce UConn’s long-term vitality and competitiveness.
Increasing our Academic and Research Profile
UConn continues to accelerate its research enterprise to expand our global relevance and reinforce our position among the nation’s elite public research institutions. Strategic investment in high-impact areas including artificial intelligence, quantum science, bioscience, national security, and advanced manufacturing will fuel discovery, increase federal funding, support targeted faculty hiring, and strengthen partnerships. These efforts are essential to UConn’s pursuit of AAU recognition and to building a research ecosystem that drives innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.
Improving Our Enrollment Outlook
As the landscape of higher education evolves, so must our strategies to attract, retain, and graduate exceptional students. We are finalizing and implementing a comprehensive Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) plan designed to expand UConn’s reach, strengthen academic quality, and elevate our prominence among our peer institutions. Through intentional recruitment, enhanced student support, and data-informed strategies to increase retention and graduation rates, we will build an inclusive academic community where every student feels valued and empowered to thrive.
Championing Athletic Excellence and Institutional Pride
UConn Athletics remains a cornerstone of Husky identity, national recognition, and community spirit. We will continue to excel across all athletic programs, drive new revenue opportunities, and strengthen a championship culture that inspires pride across Connecticut and the nation. Our student-athletes, coaches, and teams represent the excellence and perseverance that define the UConn spirit.