Strategic Planning Steering Committee - November 15, 2021

Dear Simmons Community, 

I hope this message finds you well as I write today with an update on the launch of our Strategic Planning process. During my first 18 months as president, I have seen the Simmons community at its best – working creatively and passionately to provide innovative learning opportunities for our students, responding to a global health crisis and a national racial and social justice reckoning, creating a vibrant campus experience, and striving to maintain health and wellbeing. While we have faced challenges, the opportunities we can realize are even greater – particularly as we draw upon the power of a Simmons community that continues to work and learn together. 

It is with that sense of opportunity that I am excited to announce that the important work of Strategic Planning is taking shape. I have shared my Nine Strategic Priorities, and I appreciate the thoughtful feedback so many of you have provided through your academic and administrative unit discussions over the past year. Your feedback will inform and guide the development of Simmons Strategy 2027, which will build upon previous strategic plans, leverage major initiatives, and identify key priorities for the next five years that will ensure our University can thrive in the century ahead. 

Today, I am pleased to share that I have asked Professor Cathie Mercier and University Archivist Jason Wood to co-chair the Strategic Planning Steering Committee. Cathie and Jason are deeply invested in Simmons’ success, have strong and enduring connections throughout the University, and are committed to developing an inclusive process that reflects Simmons at its best. During the next few weeks, I will be reaching out to other faculty and staff members to serve on the Steering Committee and sub-committees. In addition, I invite you to nominate yourself or a colleague to serve by completing this form no later than November 29, 2021. 

Simmons has a unique opportunity as we look ahead. During the past year and a half, I have had the opportunity to listen and learn, and I see an exciting vision emerging from our work together – one built on our core mission to provide transformative learning that links passion with lifelong purpose. Also deep in our University’s DNA is our commitment to embracing the key principles of everyday leadership to drive meaningful change and advance equity and social justice. 

The Steering Committee has been charged with leveraging this pivotal moment by creating a process to reaffirm the Simmons mission and develop a future-directed vision for the University. This work will include students, faculty, staff, the Board of Trustees, alumni, community partners, and other stakeholders in early 2022. During the 2022-23 Academic Year, the Committee will lead the University through the formulation of a Strategy 2027 to guide Simmons into its 125th Anniversary and beyond.

This is an exciting time and I look forward to engaging with all members of the community for this important work.

Lynn Perry Wooten