NMU Strategic Plan - Office of the President

DISTINCTLY NORTHERN CORE VALUES

Community
Inclusion
Opportunity    
Connections
Rigor    
Innovation
Environment    
Wellbeing

MISSION

Northern Michigan University empowers learners with distinct and meaningful experiences that open doors to extraordinary opportunities.

Our purpose is to foster close connections between learners, leaders, communities, and the natural environment in order to nurture and inspire creative problem solvers, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens dedicated to promoting the health and vitality of the Upper Peninsula, Michigan, and beyond.

VISION

Like the lake that inspires us, Northern Michigan University will be known as Superior – in the ways we support our people, partner with our place, and realize the potential of all our students.

OUR GRAND CHALLENGES

01  Supporting our People

Executive Sponsor: Rhea Dever, Vice President, People Culture & Wellbeing

The wellbeing of our people, our place, and our planet are interconnected and foundational to NMU’s mission. We embed holistic wellbeing across our campus culture and honor Indigenous perspectives to build a community where every Wildcat can flourish. When our people feel genuinely supported and valued, they stay, and they inspire others to join them.

See Action Plan

02  Partnering with our Place

Executive Sponsor: Gavin Leach, Executive Vice President, Finance and Administration

Genuine partnerships enhance how NMU influences the communities we cherish and the region that helps define us. As a vibrant anchor driving sustainable progress, we provide a home where Wildcats from all backgrounds gain the knowledge, skills, and experiences to succeed anywhere they choose to go. Our Carnegie Community Engagement Classification confirms the authenticity of these bonds and proves that in this unique place, global thinking and real-world results are inseparable.

See Action Plan

03  Realizing the Potential of All our Students: 100/Best/Zero

Executive Sponsor: Dr. Rob Winn, Interim Provost and Vice President, Academic Affairs & Student Success

NMU is defined by our mission to prepare students for success in an ever-changing world and fluid economy. By investing in high-impact practices and experiences (HIPEs), faculty excellence, and comprehensive student support, we are deeply committed to a culture in which all students can graduate on time and thrive after Northern. A college degree is a foundation for healthier lives, stronger communities, and engaged citizenship. A university that delivers on that promise is one students choose and champion long after they leave.

See Action Plan

The wellbeing of our people, our place, and our planet are interconnected and foundational to NMU’s mission. We embed holistic wellbeing across our campus culture and honor Indigenous perspectives to build a community where every Wildcat can flourish. When our people feel genuinely supported and valued, they stay, and they inspire others to join them.

Genuine partnerships enhance how NMU influences the communities we cherish and the region that helps define us. As a vibrant anchor driving sustainable progress, we provide a home where Wildcats from all backgrounds gain the knowledge, skills, and experiences to succeed anywhere they choose to go. Our Carnegie Community Engagement Classification confirms the authenticity of these bonds and proves that in this unique place, global thinking and real-world results are inseparable.

NMU is defined by our mission to prepare students for success in an ever-changing world and fluid economy. By investing in high-impact practices and experiences (HIPEs), faculty excellence, and comprehensive student support, we are deeply committed to a culture in which all students can graduate on time and thrive after Northern. A college degree is a foundation for healthier lives, stronger communities, and engaged citizenship. A university that delivers on that promise is one students choose and champion long after they leave.