• Aerial view of Millikin Campus

    Strategic Plan2023 - 2027

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  • PLAN STATEMENT

    Millikin’s Strategic Plan, “The Millikin Difference,” 2023-2027, will take us to the next level of articulating our distinct brand and strengths as a comprehensive University committed to student success and academic excellence. Our plan demonstrates how data-driven decisions will propel Millikin’s success into the future and envisions a Millikin of tomorrow where Performance Learning abounds to develop graduates that excel personally and professionally, where our campus community is strategically engaged with industry and community, where all who engage with Millikin are welcomed, and where Millikin demonstrates the fiscal ability to steward these goals in perpetuity.

  • MISSION

    For all who aspire to achieve, Millikin delivers on the promise of excellence in education. Through the integration of theory and practice, we prepare students for professional success, democratic citizenship in a global environment and a personal life of meaning and value.


    VISION

    Millikin graduates will be leaders in creating a more wise, just, equitable and sustainable society.


    VALUES

    • Intellectual and creative inquiry
    • Inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility 
    • Dignity and respect for all persons 
    • Integrity and responsibility 
    • Honest, open dialogue, and reflection 
    • Advancement of the common good

  • 2025-2026 PLAN INITIATIVES

    University Commons with students outside

    Build a Sustainable Financial Model

    We will commit to optimizing our operations, engaging in fiscal responsibility, identifying alternative revenue sources and investing in our human resources to strengthen Millikin University’s financial health and sustainability.

    Strategic Goals

    1. Expand net tuition revenue streams by enhancing recruitment strategies and initiatives.
    2. Implement effective and efficient budget management practices.
    3. Design compensation and development models that support the success and retention of quality faculty and staff.
    4. Implement a comprehensive and intentional fundraising strategy that identifies and cultivates the next generation of donors, while supporting existing giving.

    Group of student mentors

    Nurture a Welcoming & Inclusive Campus

    We will take active steps to become a more inclusive and welcoming campus, ensuring that our campus culture and climate are fully aligned with our core values of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. We will seek to attract and retain diverse talent across campus and create a sense of belonging for all who are a part of our community. 

    Strategic Goals

    1. Broaden inclusive excellence across campus.
    2. Actively recruit, retain and invest in faculty and staff excellence.
    3. Foster a sense of belonging for all who engage with Millikin.

    Graduates

    Advance Academic Excellence

    We will advance our distinctive brand of Performance Learning by focusing on holistic student success, evaluating and strengthening our current academic programs and support services, and investing in new, market-driven programs that result in increased professional success for our students.

    Strategic Goals

    1. Recommit to and invest in the Performance Learning model of education at Millikin.
    2. Strategically invest in the growth and development of academic programs.
    3. Foster a learning environment that is supportive of academic excellence.

    Student at podium speaking

    Invigorate Community Partnerships

    We will re-establish Millikin University as Decatur’s University by identifying and prioritizing strategic opportunities that align community needs with University resources for mutual benefit. We will actively partner with local industry and organizations to connect our students, faculty, staff and alumni with meaningful service and education opportunities in Macon County and beyond.

    Strategic Goals

    1. Intentionally serve and connect to regional and national partners.
    2. Increase engagement opportunities with local and regional PK-12 students and their families.
    3. Intentionally engage with our global community.

    drone image of students

    Culture Initiative: Board Focus for 2024/25

    A strong and connected campus community is at the heart of Millikin's success. We will nurture that sense of connection by strengthening shared governance and fostering a culture of collaboration, transparency and inclusion. Through open communication, thoughtful organizational improvements, and meaningful engagement among faculty and staff, we will build greater shared purpose across the University. By engaging in active listening and supporting our employees, we will create an environment in which every member of the Millikin community feels valued, respected and empowered to contribute to our collective mission.

    Strategic Goals

    1. Strengthen shared governance at Millikin.
    2. Increase and systematize meaningful interactions among key campus stakeholders.
    3. Refine organizational structure, policies and practices to strengthen communication and alignment in collaborative work.
    4. Assess and improve employee satisfaction and engagement.

  • View PlanInitial Committee