The operational compass of any business or organization is its strategic plan, and true north is its mission statement. But these are not “one and done” kinds of things. They must be revised and updated continually, to reflect changes in both the external and internal environments. It is never safe to simply say that you’ve done one before, and that it is good forever.
All of which helps explain why the College of Business always attends to its strategic plan and mission statement. Just as our own changing strengths and weaknesses affect our ability to function, so do externalities such as the economy, demographics, technology, and more. Had we not recognized forces such as these, we never would have entered into the online education arena in 1997, and adapted our guiding documents shortly thereafter.
To that end, the Strategic Planning Committee, under the leadership of Dr. Jeffry Babb, Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, has been working diligently in 2023 and 2024 to put the finishing touches on the current iteration of these to take us through until the next accreditation cycle. It was a task that required many meetings, including Zoom calls during summer months when faculty members are often spread far and wide.

“The Engler College of Business Strategic Plan for 2024-2029, titled “Navigating the Future of Business Education Excellence,” is a dynamic and flexible roadmap for the college’s future,” said Dr. Amjad Abdullat, dean of the College. “The plan is designed to be adaptable and responsive to the changing landscape of business education. It reflects the college’s dedication to preparing students for successful careers in business.”
The strategic plan is built around four main goals. The plan emphasizes:
- A commitment to high-quality education
- A focus on student success
- Addressing future challenges in business education
- Maintaining relevance in teaching
While the goals may appear lofty and general, the strategic plan itself dives into the nuts and bolts. “The overall thrust of the plan is enhancing educational quality, ensuring student success, and maintaining the college’s competitiveness and relevance in the evolving business education environment. The plan was developed collaboratively with input from students, faculty, staff, and external stakeholders,” Abdullat continued.
The full 41-page document, which is available here, provides very granular specifics of precisely how we will provide quality education that leads to student success, as well as innovations and responses to changes in learning, teaching, and curriculum. Furthermore, attention is given to enrollment and retention, two of the most important metrics in higher education.
Lastly, the strategic plan addresses how the College of Business will serve as a resource to the community. This includes making a positive social impact, establishing a strong alumni network that can lead to mentorships and employment opportunities, and also creating a sense of community within the COB.
As always, the strategic plan is subject to revision and refinement, even within its stated window of relevance. Strategy is a continuous process, and the COB is committed to embracing this philosophy.