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University Planning Advisory Council

The University Planning and Advisory Council (UPAC) serves as an advisory body to the President of the University on matters related to institutional planning, strategic direction, and priority setting. The Council’s charge includes:

  • Advise the President on the development, refinement, and implementation of the University’s long-term strategic directions and major institutional initiatives.

  • Provide counsel on proposed strategies and initiatives to ensure alignment with the University’s mission, vision, values, and external environment.

  • Review and advise on annual institutional objectives and priorities, ensuring they advance the University’s strategic initiatives and support measurable progress toward long-term goals.

  • Offer perspective on emerging trends, risks, and opportunities that may affect the University’s strategic positioning, academic excellence, financial sustainability, and public mission.

  • Serve as a forum for cross-divisional dialogue, promoting coordination, transparency, and shared understanding of institutional priorities.

UPAC acts in an advisory capacity only and does not exercise decision-making authority. Final decisions regarding strategic direction, initiatives, and annual objectives rest with the President. UPAC will generally meet monthly during the Fall and Spring Semesters and at least once in the Summer. The President may invite additional participants to attend meetings as needed based on agenda topics. The President or designee convenes and chairs the Council.

Membership on the University Planning and Advisory Council is by designated position to ensure broad institutional representation and continuity. Members serve by virtue of their administrative or governance roles.

UNIVERSITY PLANNING ADVISORY COUNCIL INDIVIDUAL ET/AC
VP Academic Affairs Teresa Golden ET
VP Business Affairs Mark Bisson ET
VP Student Affairs April Lehrling, Interim ET
VP Enrollment Management Shelly Key ET
Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Keith Baxter ET
Dean of Graduate Studies/OPM Liaison Jeremy Blackwood ET
Chief of Police Durwood Cook ET
AVP Academic Affairs—Undergraduate Studies Susan Ronnenberg AC
AVP Facilities and Construction Projects Mike Stout AC
Dean, John Massey School of Business Rhonda Richards AC
Chair or Vice Chair of Academic Council Kay Daigle AC
Faculty Senate Chair Sondra Petty AC
Staff Senate Chair Kelly Hawthorne AC
Executive Director Human Resources Ty Anderson AC
Executive Director Alumni Relations/Career Services Stephanie Davison AC
Director of Assessment Kay Daigle AC
Director of Teacher Education Stewart Mayers AC
Director of University Advancement Mark Webb AC
Special Assistant to President for Compliance Mike Davis AC
Executive Assistant to President/BA Terri Rogers AC