According to Dean Anne L. Hiskes, the intentional process of finalizing a strategic plan and new mission statement for the Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies will positively impact student experiences. The strategic plan for 2016–2021 was developed by the Strategic Planning Task Force, composed of diverse unit representatives, and based on results from student focus groups and faculty/staff surveys.

“All faculty and staff members in the college were invited later to provide feedback on the draft by participating in a town hall discussion and an online survey,” Hiskes said.

She said that by identifying priorities and objectives, the strategic plan will impact the student learning experience. “The strategic plan will help strengthen the college’s identity as a center of excellence for high-impact learning opportunities, particularly project-based and community-based teaching and learning, and for diversity and inclusion,” she said. Hiskes said the plan strengthens the college’s identity as a center of excellence for program innovation. “We have added innovative, new programs and courses, and innovation is an intended outcome of interdisciplinarity,” she said.

The college’s mission statement was refreshed to be more student-centered. Hiskes said it provides a vivid answer for who is served, for what purpose, and how. “It captures the spirit and core values of Brooks College,” she said.

Mission

Cultivating engaged global citizens through innovative interdisciplinary programs and diverse community partnerships. 

Vision

The Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies will be a regional and national model for creative inquiry, integrative programming, inclusive practices, and student empowerment. 

Guiding Principles

We value

• a collegial and collaborative student-centered environment where we support each other and work together, both within the college and across campus, in an open and transparent manner;
• cultural diversity and diversity of voices as a foundational principle in our curriculum, programming, and practices;
• community engagement through educational initiatives and experiential learning;
• interdisciplinary research and teaching that challenges and expands perspectives;
• risk-taking and innovation that encourages alternative approaches to scholarship, teaching, and learning; and 
• social, environmental, and financial sustainability in all that we do.