A Destination University
We began this journey with a bold vision: to establish the University of Iowa as the top choice for the next group of talented students, faculty, and staff. Guided by our strategic plan, we have called on the entire UI community to help carry out this mission, and our efforts are already producing remarkable results.
Through more than 150 initiatives driven by collaborations across campus, we are building on the university's strengths in research and scholarship, fostering a supportive and inclusive campus environment, and preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world. These efforts are helping us reach new heights in retention and graduation rates, research growth, and health care impact.
While we are proud of what we have accomplished so far, this is just the beginning. Together we will continue to enhance the University of Iowa’s standing as one of the most distinguished public universities in the country.
Building on a Foundation of Excellence
We are proud to share the remarkable progress the University of Iowa is making across all five priorities of our 2022-2027 Strategic Plan. We have already surpassed several key targets for 2027, including those for retention rates, graduation rates, philanthropic support, research expenditures, and patient care capacity.
Explore our latest update to see how we are achieving these milestones and why we are well-positioned to continue building on our strengths as an institution over the next three years. Explore the landing pages for each priority area to learn more about the progress and initiatives driving our success in education, research, creativity, innovation, and societal impact.
Latest Updates
UI Health Care and Mission Cancer + Blood to join forces to fight cancer in Iowa
UI Health Care and Mission Cancer + Blood are combining to create a comprehensive cancer care network uniquely positioned to tackle Iowa’s elevated cancer rates by providing high-quality oncology care at more than 20 community locations across Iowa.
UI begins planning new health sciences research building
The University of Iowa is beginning to plan for the construction of a new cancer-focused research building on the west side of campus that will provide the ability to perform state-of-the-art cancer-themed research and enhance existing collaborations among the UI’s health sciences colleges and programs.
Two world-class leaders welcomed under Transformational Hiring Program
Iowa is continuing to showcase that it is a destination university through its Transformational Faculty Hiring Program, with two recent hires further elevating the university's academic excellence.
Faculty fellows to lead initiatives supporting strategic plan
Five University of Iowa faculty members have been selected as faculty fellows for FY 2025 to work on projects bolstering support for faculty success and student learning.
Priorities and Goals
The five priorities of the strategic plan are interconnected, building upon each other to position our institution for success.
Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Foster high-quality teaching and dynamic educational experiences that empower all students to achieve their aspirations.
Innovative Research and Creative Discovery
Advance the success of UI scholars, researchers, and artists and build on the university’s distinctive strengths in areas of current and emerging research and creative discovery.
Welcoming and Inclusive Environment
Facilitate proactive campus cultural change to cultivate a more respectful, inclusive environment.
Holistic Well-Being and Success
Provide a comprehensive foundation of support for individuals throughout all stages of their relationship with the university, beginning by attracting and retaining talented students, faculty, and staff who will contribute to a thriving university community.
Transformative Societal Impact
Expand the university’s impact on local and regional communities, the state of Iowa, and the world by leveraging its areas of distinction, the resources entrusted to it, and the collective talent of its people.
What's Next
Our Strategic Plan Action and Resource Committee (SPARC) is helping the university reach new heights. For the strategic plan to be successful, we need continued participation and support from members of the campus community. Your ideas, input, and engagement are critical to us achieving our goals.