GOAL 6: Strengthen and spread the university’s academic and research reputation.

The success of the university in achieving ambitious goals, and our effectiveness in communicating our success to the outside world, are mutually reinforcing phenomena. When we have good news to report, it is essential we have a clear, focused message and the necessary means to tell our story to our target populations. As the world outside the university hears more about our achievements, we will become a more attractive investment opportunity for students, faculty, staff, industry, and the community at large.

Actions

• Engage an external consultant to conduct a brand study.
• Establish and promote the brand.
• Conduct a methodical and aggressive outreach effort to the news media, the scholarly and industrial presses, and government publications.
• Redesign the university website.
• Advertise in print, radio, television, and other media (e.g. billboards, airport).
• Secure frequent speaking engagements by university leadership with a wide range of Alumni, corporate, community, and government groups.
  

Assessment

• Acceptance of brand, determined through regular surveys of students, Alumni, corporations, and other constituencies.
• Number and frequency of publications, citations, and references in news media and other outlets.
• Hits and use of university website.
• Efficacy of advertising as determined through surveys.
• Number and frequency of speaking engagements by university leadership.
• Rankings in US News and other publications.
• Success in recruiting outstanding faculty.
• Research grants from government and industry.