We are
- Collaborative
- Inclusive
- Empowering
Boldly Illinois:
The Framework
Our university’s strategic planning framework provides a canvas to imagine and define how we can accomplish our best work. Boldly Illinois prioritizes our values as we envision daring new ideas along with continuing the current work of the university. Throughout the university’s history, we have never been afraid to stand out as we have exemplified collaboration, community and empowerment. The first regent (president) of the university, John Milton Gregory, called on the university community to “see what new and better solution we can possibly offer of the great problems on which their wellbeing and destiny depend.”
The university was bold then in creating a curriculum which “promoted the establishment of a classical liberal arts education in addition to the anticipated industrial and agricultural education.” And the university continues to be bold now by drawing on our core values to guide what we do and how we do it. Collaboration, inclusion and empowerment are embedded into the very DNA of this university.
We are well-positioned to identify priorities and make decisions that align with the fundamental character of our institution. Building on our foundations with our current strengths makes the Boldly Illinois 2030 strategic framework valuable for securing a bright future.
Collaboration
We value collaboration to solve problems and promote understanding.
Inclusion
We value authentic inclusion to build community.
Empowerment
We value empowerment to enable individuals to be successful.
Combined, these values strengthen and reinforce one another and multiply the impact of our work. Boldly Illinois invites us to consider how these values intersect and intertwine throughout our activities and efforts.
Boldly Collaborate
We value collaboration to solve problems and promote understanding.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign actively brings people together to define emerging issues, discover new knowledge, enhance quality of life, encourage understanding and create solutions. We seek ways to communicate more effectively, share information and perspectives, and deepen understanding.
Collaboration may include interdisciplinary teams engaging in research, interdepartmental cooperation when delivering services, creating cross-campus initiatives to improve student success or connecting with local or international communities to build better understanding.
Boldly Include
We value authentic inclusion to build community.
By being inclusive and compassionate, Illinois welcomes a diverse population that allows us to broaden our horizons, build a sense of belonging and improve everyday experiences.
Authentic inclusion involves expanding representation in the faculty and staff, increasing access and affordability for students, partnering with community organizations, examining policies to be more inclusive and understanding the perspectives of others.
Boldly Empower
We value empowerment to enable individuals to be successful.
By empowering all members of our university — faculty, staff, students, alumni and the community — we provide the tools for people to define their goals, find their purpose and realize their potential so they can engage as citizens and contribute to societal improvement on campus and in the community.
Examples include revolutionizing education through high-quality innovative pedagogical practices, building professional skills through innovative programming and lifelong learning opportunities, and being a national leader in accessibility.