University’s strategic plan puts institution on trajectory for distinction
The University of Texas at Dallas has a story to tell. It’s a story still being written, sparked by the vision of its founders and continuing half a century later.
As the University approaches the 50th anniversary of its founding, a new strategic plan is adding to the story of this dynamic, young university by charting a path for the institution’s future. President Richard C. Benson recently released the plan, which specifies critical issues that must be addressed successfully during the next five years for UT Dallas to continue its trajectory to be one of the world’s great universities.
“This new strategic plan is not only a guide for our efforts moving forward, but it also reflects our distinctive style and values as an institution.”
–President Richard C. Benson
More than 50 faculty, staff and students collaborated to identify key actions and produce the final blueprint.
“When we began this process in 2017, I invited close scrutiny of the factors that will most affect our continued growth and progress,” Benson said. “UT Dallas has come far in a relatively short period of time, and if we want to continue that momentum and trajectory, we need to set ambitious yet realistic goals.”
The new plan incorporates nine strategic themes, including becoming an economic engine for the region, a goal that dates to the origins of UT Dallas as the Southwest Center for Advanced Studies.
“I think if our founders could come back, they would be thrilled — absolutely thrilled — at what has happened at UTD and what we have meant to the prosperity of this community,” said Benson, who holds the Eugene McDermott Distinguished University Chair of Leadership, named for one of those founders.
“Our mission as a university includes graduating well-rounded citizens who are prepared for life and productive careers in an ever-changing world, as well as making the discoveries that will drive those very changes,” Benson said.
