The Planning Team considered the input from Community Day, the Senior Administrative Team and the Board of Trustees to narrow the focus of the strategic plan. Credo, the consultant assisting Furman with the development of the strategic plan, facilitated the work of this team. The planning team shared the outcomes of their conversations and work with the campus community and sought feedback. President Davis and the Senior Administrative Team reviewed and shared a draft with the Board of Trustees, which provided additional feedback being incorporated into the draft.

In Spring 2024 (and beyond) working groups (some existing), will operationalize, execute and assess the progress on the plan’s initiatives.

Co-Leads

Connie Carson, Student Life
Beth Pontari, Academic Affairs

Planning Team Members

Kristin Austin, Human Resources
Ian Brown, Campus Recreation & Wellness
Jason Cassidy, Dean of Students
Erik Ching, Engaged Learning
Vaughn Crowe-Tipton, Chaplain, Religion Faculty
Linnea Freeman, Bio/Neuro Faculty, Chair of Curricular Initiatives
Lauren Payne, Career Engagement
Mac McArthur, Communication Studies Faculty, Department Chair, Graduate Studies
Scott Henderson, Education Faculty, Faculty Council
Lisa Knight, DEI Leadership, Anthropology/Religion/Asian Studies Faculty
Elizabeth Lichtenberg, University Communications
Kaniqua Robinson, Anthropology Faculty
Liz Seman, SAT
Michele Speitz, English Faculty, Humanities Center
Garrett Stern, Leadership & Professional Education
Randy Umstead, Music Faculty, Department Chair
Rob Warren, Development
Erin Wissing, Athletics

If you have thoughts, suggestions, or feedback regarding our draft strategic plan, we encourage you to share them with us. Your perspective is vital in refining the path forward.

Strategic plan priorities

• University of Innovation and Impact
  • Furman will strengthen its position as a national leader in individualized learning and student outcomes. By enhancing The Furman Advantage and refining the four-year pathway, the university will prepare every graduate for a meaningful career and a life of fulfillment. Initiatives to foster innovation and impact the community underscore Furman’s commitment to advancing knowledge and society.
• Thriving Community
  • Central to Furman’s strategic plan is the cultivation of a vibrant, interconnected community where wellbeing and engagement flourish. Furman will prioritize the holistic development of students and an inclusive campus environment that fosters dialogue and supports student and employee growth and satisfaction.
• Sustainable Future
  • Furman is prioritizing financial stability and sustainability as it enters its third century. By bolstering its financial foundation through additional revenue generation and fundraising, the university will ensure its long-term success. Integral to financial stability is environmental sustainability. Furman will continue to advance its sustainability goals, including working toward becoming carbon neutral. Finally, Furman commits to articulating a distinct brand identity to advance its goals in recruiting, fundraising, and reputation.

You may share feedback by emailing strategicplan@furman.edu or through the survey below.

On February 16, 2023 the university held a campus-wide event to invite feedback and input on the strategic planning process.  Use the link below to review the presentation from the event.