Structure and Responsibilities

Being well informed, asking questions, and listening will be hallmarks of the 2008-2014 planning process. The strategic planning effort will be governed by a committee infrastructure that includes a steering committee, chaired by Jeffrey S. Vitter, Dean, College of Science, and four Pillar group committees that reflect the values and visions of the College.

The Pillar groups are:

Discovery: expanding the realm of knowledge in the basic and applied sciences;
Learning: supporting education and the dissemination of scientific knowledge;
Engagement: the exchange of scientific skills and understanding;
Diversity: creating a community at the college that mirrors our diverse cultural, international, and multidisciplinary world.

Pillar group committees are co-chaired by an associate dean and a professor from the College.

The planning process begins with the input from the College Hiring Priorities Committee on multidisciplinary opportunities. The committee’s assessment of this data will be incorporated into the 2008-2014 plan and provide direction to departmental efforts to develop teaching excellence and cooperative hiring strategies around synergistic, multidisciplinary research areas.

The committees will analyze feedback from four extensive surveys—of faculty, graduate students, undergraduate students, and staff. Data collected for metrics outlined in the goals of the 2002—2007 strategic plan will be assessed to determine what worked well, and what didn’t.

Two open town hall meetings will be held in April to provide the committees with mid-course “live” feedback and opinions from a diverse set of constituents.

The College of Science strategic planning process will incorporate the values and best practices of Purdue President Córdova: access, success, and diversity, and support efforts to elevate the university on a national and global level.

In May, 2008, Pillar group committees will submit white papers to the steering committee for consideration, prioritization, and consolidation into strategic plan.

The steering committee will compile a final strategic plan based on input and information gathered during the planning process for approval in the fall to the Faculty Council.