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 producing remarkable results.
Three years into our 2022–2027 Strategic Plan, we’ve already surpassed key targets in retention, graduation, philanthropic support, research expenditures, and patient care capacity. While we are proud of what we have accomplished, there are more challenges, opportunities, and goals for our university to strive for in the coming years.
Together, we will continue to enhance the University of Iowa’s standing as one of the most distinguished public flagship universities in the country.
A message from President Wilson and Provost Kregel
Year 3 of our 2022–2027 Strategic Plan has turned ambition into record-breaking outcomes. From classrooms to clinics, research labs to communities across Iowa, we are delivering results that strengthen our state and elevate our standing nationwide.
All of this outstanding progress is made possible by the hard work of members of the university community who are helping execute the strategic plan. Their talent, dedication to students, service to Iowans, and pursuit of innovation and discovery are building momentum we can measure.
Latest Updates
An update on reSPARC
reSPARC work groups have met more than 50 times since August, are establishing processes to gather data and feedback, and are starting to develop guiding principles, subcommittees, and tactic teams that will help them expand their work across campus.
UI selected for AAC&U Institute on AI
A team of faculty and staff will build upon ongoing work to integrate AI into rhetoric courses and develop strategies to further integrate AI into departmental curriculum, enhance teaching practices, and prepare students for a rapidly evolving workforce.
University of Iowa shatters application record
Supported by targeted outreach and data-driven enrollment management strategies, the University of Iowa continues to be a top destination for students from across the country, with more than 31,000 applications for fall 2025.
UI Health Care expands cancer treatments and clinical trials across Iowa
The first set of UI Health Care and Mission Cancer + Blood joint clinical trials opened this summer. The portfolio of joint studies will expand for patient enrollment across Iowa throughout the year, with at least seven trials being prepared for the coming months.
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 Environment
Facilitate a respectful campus environment that ensures access and opportunity for all students, faculty, and staff throughout their Iowa experience.
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.