Overarching and Enduring Commitments

The 2011-16 Long-Range Plan is guided by three overarching and enduring commitments to student learning, inclusive excellence and institutional impact. The purpose of the long-range plan is to direct strategic actions that yield demonstrable outcomes and progress in support of these commitments.

Student learning

Students and faculty in classroomStudent learning is the primary goal of the University and the key indicator of our success. As a community of learners, we embrace learning outcomes that encompass liberal arts education, professional preparation and a concentration on public affairs, and we pledge to support student learning in curricular, co-curricular, extra-curricular and research contexts.

Inclusive excellence

Students conversingInclusive excellence is the recognition that an educational institution's success is dependent on how well it values, engages and includes the rich diversity of faculty, staff and students with all the valuable social dimensions that they bring to the enterprise of higher education. Missouri State University shall demonstrate a comprehensive commitment to inclusive excellence, which will be reflected by policy, planning and actions throughout the institution.

Institutional impact

Carrington HallInstitutional impact refers to the positive, enduring effects of the University's work in the region and the state as well as to our broader contributions to knowledge and innovation. Essential to this commitment are focused activities in: basic and applied research, economic and community development, community partnerships and advanced workforce development. As a major employer we also pledge to model ethical behavior with respect to people, resources and the environment.