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Eastern Connecticut State University is advancing a Strategic Compass to guide the University’s direction in the years ahead and to position us thoughtfully as we approach our next comprehensive NECHE accreditation review in fall 2030.
The Strategic Compass reflects more than 17 months of engagement and reflection. It began with the Listening and Learning Tour and continued through structured conversations, small group meetings, written reflections, and informal exchanges across campus and with stakeholders across the region.
These conversations informed President Karim Ismaili’s Inaugural Address, which emphasized the best of what we are. They then evolved into further dialogue at Leadership Council, where members built upon those themes and began articulating the best of what we will become — grounded in Eastern’s enduring mission, values, and distinctive role as Connecticut’s public liberal arts university.
The Strategic Compass establishes six institutional goals and corresponding areas of focus that provide stability and direction as Eastern moves forward.
In the months ahead, the University will translate these established areas of focus into:
These elements will guide progress and help assess impact over time.
As part of the next phase of this work, the University is launching a shared envisioning exercise titled Eastern@150.
Community members are invited to imagine Eastern at its 150th anniversary in 2039 — a future in which the University is widely recognized for advancing its mission with confidence, distinction, and impact.
Participants may:
Submissions will be accepted through March 31.
In the coming weeks, President Ismaili will engage with the University Senate and continue campus conversations throughout the spring semester. A more detailed implementation framework — including action steps and measurable priorities — will be shared at the May 8 University Meeting.
The Strategic Compass reflects the collective voice of the Eastern community and a shared commitment to shaping the University’s next chapter.
