Dear OU Community,
Over the past four years, our journey at the University of Oklahoma has been nothing short of transformative. Our “Lead On, University” Strategic Plan, launched in July 2020, has ignited a spirit of excellence within us. Together, we have achieved milestones that are reshaping our future in ways that will change lives for generations to come.
Our progress has been extraordinary: from shattering records in research, fundraising, and incoming classes, to seizing landmark achievements like creating a research-intense academic health system to uplift the well-being of all Oklahomans, joining the SEC, and much more. We’ve attained these accomplishments while steadfastly maintaining OU’s commitment to affordability and accessibility, ensuring that excellence remains within reach for all. Together, we are building a future for OU that knows no bounds, a testament to the power of community and collaboration in unlocking our greatest potential.
Yet, our Strategic Plan was never meant to be static. It must evolve to meet the challenges of our ever-changing world while continuing to serve the distinct needs of our community.
As we approach the halfway point of our Strategic Plan, it’s time for a refresh – a time to celebrate our achievements, build on our successes, and strive for even greater heights of excellence. To provide further insight into why we're embarking on this journey, I encourage you to watch the accompanying video in this email. Our Strategic Plan website, ou.edu/leadon, has also been updated with more details, as well as a remarkable overview of the breathtaking accomplishments across our university since the plan’s unveiling.
Your voice is essential in this process. As we begin our refresh, we invite all members of our university community to contribute your insights and ideas that will shape our future. Please share your input by completing our online response form. Stay tuned for other ways to provide feedback throughout the coming year.
With your help, we hope to reveal an enhanced Strategic Plan by early next year – one that unites all three of our campuses and charts a compelling vision for our next chapter. Together, we will reaffirm our purpose, refine our strategies, and uphold OU’s legacy as a beacon of excellence and opportunity, both now and always.
Live On, University,
Joseph Harroz, Jr.
President
