Framework for the future
Over the past year, the University has engaged thousands of people across the Hilltop, Dallas and country to understand their dreams and beliefs in what is possible for the future of SMU. It is clear there are bold aspirations for SMU. The University has engaged in an extensive process to bring these ideas together in a bold strategic framework for the future. This will provide a clear, aspirational roadmap that will guide our decisions, priorities and investments for the next decade.
Nearly 9,000 members of Mustang Nation have participated in the process, including nearly 2,200 faculty and staff, more than 1,200 students, and nearly 5,400 community members. Numerous working sessions led by faculty and deans have convened to ensure direction, input and collaboration throughout the process. This is a direct reflection of our community’s shared excitement and desire to influence SMU’s future.
While the work continues to build out the strategic framework, which will be formally introduced in fall 2027, the University will aim high with its vision. Our vision will place SMU at the forefront of America’s universities, winning in teaching, research, athletics and the arts; delivering exceptional experiences; partnering with the Dallas community; and empowering well-rounded, principled leaders who are driven to tackle the world’s most important challenges. Our framework will guide our focus and direct our efforts on transformative teaching and programs, research that matters, athletic impact, exceptional experiences and principled leadership. We will uniquely prepare and empower our students to lead and succeed in a complex world.
Our plan will be unique in both its approach and flexible framework. Throughout the process and over the years ahead, we actively encourage new ideas, creativity, entrepreneurial thinking, emerging technologies and interesting market opportunities to constantly challenge and evolve our focus. As we continue to listen to our students, faculty, staff, alumni and Dallas community, we will refine the plan continuously to ensure a future where our University and Mustangs achieve their full potential.
Even with the introduction of the plan months away, we are already experiencing early wins from the new vision for the future with the creation of new degree programs, a new scholar community for our highest achieving students and record philanthropic support. With our extraordinary academic and philanthropic momentum, the vision and strategic framework will define our ambitious path forward.