(UW-W press release) Everyone is invited and encouraged to join a public hearing as the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater seeks feedback on its proposed new mission statement. The event is 2-3 p.m. Tuesday, June 22, and will be held virtually. The live video stream link is available online at uww.edu/strategic-plan/public-hearing. Closed captioning will be available. The following phone number is also provided: Toll Free 1-855-749-4750Event number: 177 642 9612
Event password: mMPmeJ82bS2
“UW-Whitewater is very proud to provide high-quality educational and cultural opportunities for citizens in our region,” said Greg Cook, interim provost. “As a public steward of this responsibility, we are continuously striving to improve and adapt to the needs of the region. As part of that promise, we are updating our mission statement to reflect our current goals and aspirations as a regional comprehensive university.”
The Banner is providing the proposed mission statement and current mission statement at the end of this article.
As part of the university’s 2021-2022 strategic plan, a revised mission statement was drafted by members of the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee. This committee includes more than 40 members representing all areas of the university, including all employees and students. The committee also includes the Whitewater City Manager, connecting to the needs of the city and local region. Numerous open listening sessions were conducted to gather feedback and suggestions from members of the university and local community. The statement was approved by the Committee, all university governance groups, and the Chancellor. After the June 22 final public hearing, the final draft will be presented to the UW System Board of Regents for review and approval.
PROPOSED NEW MISSION STATEMENT
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a preeminent academic institution driven by the pursuit of knowledge, powered by a spirit of innovation, and focused on transforming lives. As part of the University of Wisconsin System, UW-Whitewater embraces the Wisconsin Idea and is an economic and cultural driver of our region. We are nationally and internationally recognized for the accomplishments of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Grounded in a rigorous core curriculum, students receive a well-rounded education, and every academic program prepares students to be creative, innovative and adaptable in dynamic and diverse work and life environments.
We are an inclusive educational community with a deep commitment to access that inspires us to serve students from diverse backgrounds, experiences, identities, and abilities. We have a longstanding special mission to serve students with disabilities. By supporting all students, we champion education, opportunity and prosperity for all. As engaged global citizens, members of our community make positive contributions to the State of Wisconsin, to our nation, and to the world.
Our academic programs serve undergraduate and graduate students, including online learners, and span the disciplines, from the theoretical to the applied, and encompass study in the arts, business, education, humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, technology, and professional and interdisciplinary programs. High-quality programs are offered at the associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral levels. These programs prepare students to become lifelong learners who lead successful lives and enjoy productive careers.
CURRENT MISSION STATEMENT
The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is committed to the development of the individual, the growth of personal and professional integrity and respect for diversity and global perspectives. These are met by providing academic and cocurricular programs that emphasize the pursuit of knowledge and understanding and a commitment to service within a safe and secure environment.
The mission of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is:
- To provide a range of undergraduate programs and degrees, including interdisciplinary programs, in letters, sciences, and the arts as well as programs and degrees leading to professional specialization.
- To offer graduate education built clearly upon its undergraduate emphases and strengths with particular emphasis in the fields of business, education, communication, and human services.
- To engage in scholarly activity, including research, scholarship and creative endeavor, that supports its programs at the associate and baccalaureate degree level, its graduate programs, and its select mission.
- To create and maintain a positive and inviting environment for multicultural students, students with disabilities, and nontraditional students, and provide support services and programs for them.
- To serve as a regional cultural and economic resource center through its service initiatives.
- To provide continuing education and outreach programs as integrated institutional activities.
- To provide a variety of co-curricular activities to enhance out-of-class learning opportunities.
- To encourage and maintain a high level of personal and professional integrity in all University life and activities.
