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# 3 Year STRATEGIC PLAN Vision 2028 Thorobreds Leading for Impact

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# Vision 2028 FY 2025-2028 Thorobreds Leading for Impact

## Letter from Leadership

## Dear KSU Community,

Following a comprehensive internal review process, I am pleased to announce the launch of our new strategic plan, designed to guide Kentucky State University (KSU) towards a future of growth in innovation and inspiring the next leaders of the Commonwealth. This comprehensive plan, crafted through extensive consultation and collaboration, focuses on four key pillars: Affordable Access, Transformative Engagements, Equitable Student Success, and Sustainable Educational Resources. These pillars are the foundation upon which we will build Kentucky State University's growth and success in the years ahead.

## Affordable Access

We are committed to making education accessible to all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic background. By reducing financial barriers and promoting our financial aid programs, we will provide more opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Our focus on affordable educational access will empower students to achieve mobility.

## Transformative Engagements

Our university will play an active role in advancing conditions across the Commonwealth through strategic partnerships and impactful services. We will collaborate with local governments, non-profit organizations, businesses, and community groups to address critical workforce, economic, and environmental challenges. Through these transformative engagements, we will contribute to the well-being and development of our communities, making a meaningful contribution to the Commonwealth.

## Equitable Student Success

Ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed is at the heart of our mission. We will provide holistic support services, enhance retention and graduation initiatives, and elevate learning opportunities for all students. By fostering an encompassing and supportive environment throughout the student life cycle, we will help every student reach their full potential, reducing achievement gaps and promoting a culture of success. In brief, we will make Kentucky State University a model student ready university.

## Sustainable Educational Resources

Our operations and educational mission require sustainable practices. Sustainability is integral to our operations and educational mission. We will develop and maintain our facilities, faculty, staff, and programs that prioritize environmental stewardship, energy efficiency and resource conservation. By investing in sustainable practices and innovative programs, we will ensure the long-term viability and impact of KSU. Our commitment to sustainability will enhance the quality of education we provide and demonstrate our dedication to economic responsibility.

## Moving Onward and Upward

As we embark on this strategic journey, I invite each member of our community to actively participate in the implementation of these goals. Your engagement and collaboration are crucial to our success. Together, we will create a vibrant, affordable, and sustainable future for Kentucky State University that above all else commits to ensure our students are placed first.

Thank you for your continued dedication and support. I look forward to working with you to achieve these ambitious and transformative goals.

Warm Regards,

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Koffi C. Akakpo, Ph.D.

President, Kentucky State University

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Founded in 1886 as the State Normal School for Colored Persons and named a land-grant college under the Second Morrill Act of 1890, Kentucky State University became Kentucky's second state-supported institution of higher learning. Today, the University is one of the most diverse institutions among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the nation and the most diverse among the Commonwealth's public universities. The University's student-faculty ratio is the lowest among public institutions of higher learning in Kentucky.

## Mission, Vision, Values, and Retention Statement

## Mission Statement

Provide transformative educational experiences to prepare graduates for making meaningful contributions to society.

Kentucky State University is a public, research-comprehensive, historically black, 1890 land grant institution.

## Vision Statement

Foster Innovation and Inspire Leaders to Advance the Commonwealth and the World.

## University Values

Compassion, Communication, Commitment, and Collaboration Ethical and Moral Responsibility

Intentional Actions

Excellence and Innovation

Impactful Community Engagement

Holistic Professional Development

## Institutional Retention Statement

Provide transformative educational experiences to our students, by enhancing opportunities and support to ensure retention, progression, and on-time degree completion.

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# Strategic Priority 1: Affordable Access Provide Affordable Quality Education Through Enhanced Access

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KSU is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment where all individuals have equal opportunities to pursue higher education regardless of socioeconomic background. Recognizing the critical importance of affordable educational access in empowering students to achieve their academic and professional goals, KSU has developed a comprehensive strategic plan to enhance affordability and reduce financial barriers to education. This strategic plan encompasses three overarching goals, each designed to address specific facets of accessibility: outreach, financial opportunity and innovative program offerings. Through well-defined objectives, innovative initiatives, and measurable metrics, KSU endeavors to make education more accessible for its students and equip them with the necessary financial literacy and support services to navigate the complexities of attaining an education.

In the following sections, we outline these strategic goals, objectives, initiatives, and metrics, highlighting KSU's commitment to ensuring that every student can advance academically and succeed beyond the classroom. In addition, Kentucky State University can effectively increase enrollment, attract a diverse student body, and strengthen its value-added proposition as a premier institution of higher education in the Commonwealth, the nation and in the world.

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<table border=1 style='margin: auto; word-wrap: break-word;'><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Objective</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Initiative</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Key Performance Indicators</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">1.1 Expand Financial Pathways</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.1.1 Financial AccessibilityExpand scholarship and grant opportunities for all students, especially socio economically disadvantaged students.</td><td rowspan="4">Increase awarded scholarships by 10% every year.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.1.2 Diversify Funding SourcesSeek partnerships with corporations, alumni, and philanthropic organizations to establish endowed and restricted scholarships.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.1.3 Merit-Based Aid ProgramsEnhance programs to reward academic achievement and leadership qualities among incoming and current students.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.1.4 Enhance Application AssistanceProvide workshops and online resources to assist students in applying for external scholarships and grants.</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="3">1.2 Improve Enrollment Management through Enhanced Outreach</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.2.1 Streamline Enrollment Management ProcessesEnhance support services to facilitate a seamless transition for prospective students.</td><td rowspan="3">Increase enrolled students through intentional recruitment strategies to a headcount of 3,000 by Fall 2025, 3,500 by Fall 2026 and 4,000 by Fall 2027.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.2.2 Enrollment Management CounselingProvide personalized counseling for current students to navigate their progression.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.2.3 Enhanced Transfer Student SupportDevelop resources and programs specifically designed to support transfer students, including credit evaluations, transfer specific student orientation, and academic advising services.</td></tr></table>

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## KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY

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## Strategic Objectives for Priority 1 Affordable Access


<table border=1 style='margin: auto; word-wrap: break-word;'><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Objective</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Initiative</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Key Performance Indicators</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="8">1.3 Increase Program Offerings</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.3.1 Enhance Academic Excellence</td><td rowspan="8">Add at least 3 new market-driven programs per year.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Expand and diversify program offerings to attract a broader range of students and enhance the overall academic reputation of Kentucky State University. Invest in professional development programs and research initiatives to enhance academic excellence.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.3.2 Market-Driven &amp; Innovative Program Development</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Conduct market research to identify emerging fields and areas of demand and develop new academic programs or concentrations accordingly.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.3.3 Online and Distance Education Learning Options</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Expand online and distance education learning opportunities to target non-traditional and adult learners and those seeking flexible learning options.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>1.3.4 Promote Digital and Information Literacy</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Empower stakeholders to become proficient and confident digital citizens, capable of leveraging technology to support personal, educational, and professional goals.</td></tr></table>

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# Strategic Priority 2: Transformative Engagements Create partnerships and offer services that advance the workforce and economic development in the Commonwealth

Through transformative engagements, Kentucky State University will become a catalyst for positive change and advance the economic and workforce conditions in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. By partnering with diverse stakeholders and offering services that meet community needs, we will help create a more just, prosperous, and sustainable Commonwealth. Kentucky State University will leverage its resources and expertise to promote transformative engagements that significantly advance human conditions across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Our strategic goal focuses on establishing meaningful partnerships and offering impactful services that address critical social, economic, and environmental challenges within our communities.


<table border=1 style='margin: auto; word-wrap: break-word;'><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Objective</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Initiative</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Key Performance Indicators</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>2.1 Execute a B.O.L.D. capital campaign\n[Believe, Outstanding, Lead, Daring]</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>2.1.1 Enhance Donor Recognition Efforts\nConduct a capital campaign assessment; create additional donor recognition events and stewardship mechanisms leading into and during capital campaign/fundraising/philanthropy.</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Reach a University endowment of $100 million by December 2029.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>2.2 Lead Regional Economic Impact</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>2.2.1 Cultivate Strategic Alliances\nGrow mutually beneficial relationships with businesses and organizations with the potential to advance the Commonwealth.</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Increase partnerships with businesses and other entities by 5% annually.</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="3">2.3 Support Entrepreneurial Ecosystems</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>2.3.1 Foster Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Growth\nSpur economic development through an entrepreneurial ecosystem driven by startup ventures, public-private partnerships and transformative technologies.</td><td rowspan="3">Increase grant and private investments in KSU by 10% each year.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>2.3.2 Diversify Institutional Financial Resources\nDiversify the university&#x27;s revenue and resource base to build financial strength and provide flexible funds for strategic investment.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>2.3.3 Enhance Community Research Outreach\nStrengthen outreach, engagement and community-focused research capabilities across all disciplines.</td></tr></table>

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## Strategic Priority 3: Equitable Student Success Achieve equitable student success across the life cycle of engagement

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By being intentional with student success, Kentucky State University will create an environment where all students can reach their full potential. Our commitment to inclusivity and support will lead to higher retention and graduation rates, reduced achievement gaps, and a more diverse and successful alumni community. Kentucky State University goal of achieving student success across the life cycle of engagement underscores our dedication to providing support and resources that enable all students to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.


<table border=1 style='margin: auto; word-wrap: break-word;'><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Objective</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Initiative</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Key Performance Indicators</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">3.1 Empower purposeful engagements to enhance student success</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.1.1 Empowering SuccessTarget efforts in recruitment, enrollment, retention, and post-collegiate support.</td><td rowspan="4">Increase retention, graduation and job placement rate by 5% each annually</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.1.2 Improve Utilization of Online Student ServicesStreamline student interactions, increase engagement, and support academic and administrative needs.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.1.3 Promote Services that Enhance LearningStrengthen career services and alumni engagement efforts to facilitate successful transitions from college to career.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.1.4 Communication StrategyDevelop a comprehensive communication plan highlighting student service for career readiness and health and well-being.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.2 Foster student leadership to increase student achievement</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.2.1 Enhanced Academic Advising ProgramMeasure the satisfaction of students with the academic advising services provided, through regular surveys, feedback mechanisms, early degree audits to track graduation readiness.</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Increase progression Rates by 5% annually.</td></tr></table>

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## Equitable Student Success


<table border=1 style='margin: auto; word-wrap: break-word;'><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Objective</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Initiative</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Key Performance Indicators</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2"></td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.2.2 Increase Student RetentionDevelop a “Student Journey Map” to inform decisions around what initiatives are recommended to implement for improving student retention, progression, and graduation rates by providing comprehensive support services, including academic advising, mentoring, and career preparation programs.</td><td rowspan="2"></td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.2.3 Career Development and Leadership PreparednessEquip students with the skills, knowledge, leadership training, and resources necessary to succeed in their chosen careers through career exploration workshops, mentorship programs, and alumni networks.</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">3.3 Implement high-impact practices to enhance student learning environments</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.3.1 Personalized Learning PlansUtilize data-driven insights and adaptive learning resources to address individual learning needs.</td><td rowspan="2">Increase the number of courses while implementing and assessing high-impact practices by 2.5% annually.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>3.3.2 Community Focused Learning OpportunitiesDevelop partnerships with community organizations to create experiential learning projects, internships, and service-learning initiatives that enrich educational experiences while addressing community priorities.</td></tr></table>

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# Sustainable Educational Resources

By prioritizing Sustainable Educational Resources, Kentucky State University creates a resilient and forward-thinking institution that serves the needs of current and future generations. Our commitment to sustainability will not only enhance the quality of education we provide but also demonstrate our dedication to social responsibility and environmental stewardship. Kentucky State University recognizes the importance of sustainability in all aspects of our operations. Our strategic goal of Sustainable Educational Resources focuses on developing and maintaining facilities, faculty, staff/administration, and programs that not only meet the current needs of our university community but also ensure long-term viability and positive impact on the environment. This strategic goal supports our mission to offer an exceptional educational experience while contributing positively to our community and the world. Together, we will build a sustainable future for Kentucky State University, ensuring that our resources are used wisely and effectively to benefit all members of our university community.

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<table border=1 style='margin: auto; word-wrap: break-word;'><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Objective</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Initiative</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Key Performance Indicators</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="3">4.1 Stimulate Financial Sustainability</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>4.1.1 Enhance Cost Efficiency in University OperationsCreate a fiscally responsible and environmentally conscious campus that supports long-term sustainability and operational excellence.</td><td rowspan="3">Implement at least 1 new sustainability initiative annually.Increase the University Fund balance by 5% annually.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>4.1.2 Diversify Revenue StreamsExplore new funding sources, enhance existing revenue channels, and develop innovative financial strategies to ensure a stable and flexible financial foundation.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>4.1.3 Increase Transparency and AccountabilityImplement clear communication, stakeholder engagement, and performance monitoring systems, ensuring ethical standards and responsive governance in all areas of KSU.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>4.2 Foster Social Sustainability</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>4.2.1 Enhance Community Engagement and Social ResponsibilityStrengthen partnerships with local organizations, increase involvement in community initiatives, and promote social responsibility across campus.4.2.2 Promote Equity and Inclusion in Sustainability EffortsEnsure that environmental initiatives are accessible and beneficial to all members of our community.4.2.3 Cultivate a Supportive Environment for EmployeesPromote a culture of inclusion, continuous development, and well-being, ensuring employees have the resources and opportunities needed to excel and contribute meaningfully to organizational success.</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>Each academic division will host at least 5 and non-academic divisions will host at least 2 community-focused programs annually.Implement an employee satisfaction survey and distribute it annually.</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="3">4.3 Ensure Sustainability in Research Management Practices</td><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>4.3.1 Advance Sustainable Education and ResearchEnhance academic programs by integrating sustainability across the Curriculum and by supporting sustainable research and innovation.</td><td rowspan="3">Increase student participation in sustainability related initiatives by 5% annually.Increase institutional research capacity by 2029.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>4.3.2 Implement Sustainable Procurement PoliciesPrioritize sourcing products and services that are environmentally friendly, ethically produced, and economically viable.</td></tr><tr><td style='text-align: center; word-wrap: break-word;'>4.3.3 Improve Resources Utilization and Waste ReductionImplement efficient practices and technologies to optimize the use of resources and minimize waste generation.</td></tr></table>

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# Strategic Plan Definitions

Awarded Scholarships - The number of scholarships given to students based on merit, need, or other criteria, whether institutional or external.

Enrolled Students - Individuals who have formally registered and are attending courses at Kentucky State University. This includes on campus and online students.

Market-Driven Programs - Educational programs designed to align with current workforce market demands and provide students with skills needed in high-demand industries.

University Endowment – The endowed holdings whose annual expenditures go to support the students and programs of Kentucky State University. The University manages its own endowment fund via an investment firm as well as an endowment held in the University's 501(c)(3) partner, the KSU Thorobreds Foundation, Inc.

Partnerships – Collaborations or agreements between the university and businesses, organizations, or other entities to achieve shared goals. These could be local, national or international and include but are not limited to financial partners, community partners, as well as consulting or advising partners.

Grant and Private Investments - Financial contributions received from grants (typically from government or foundations) and private donors to support KSU initiatives.

Retention Rates – The percentage of students who continue their education at the University from one year to the next. KSU will measure freshman to sophomore, sophomore to junior, junior to senior.

Graduation Rates – This relates to the four and six year graduation rates. First-time, full-time bachelor's degree-seeking students entering in the fall semester (or entering in the summer and continuing in the fall), who graduate with a bachelor's degree within four or six years from their institution of entry1.

Job Placement Rates - The percentage of graduates who secure employment in their field of study one year after graduation.

Progression Rates - For four-year Institutions, student progression is the number of full- and part-time undergraduate students reaching or surpassing 30, 60, or 90 cumulative earned credit hours in a given academic year as defined by student classification1. KSU will also measure 24 cumulative earned credit hours.

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High-Impact Practices - Educational practices, such as internships or collaborative projects that are proven to enhance student learning and engagement.
Sustainability Initiatives - Actions or programs designed to promote environmental, financial or programmatic responsibility and resource conservation.
University Fund Balance - The financial reserves or surplus available to the University after accounting for its revenues and expenses.
Community-Focused Programs - Events or activities organized to engage and benefit the surrounding community, fostering outreach and collaboration.
Institutional Research Capacity - The University's ability to conduct, support, and utilize research to achieve academic and organizational goals.
'Council on Postsecondary Education. (2023). Comprehensive Database Guidelines for Kentucky Higher Education Institutions (p. 208). https://cpe.ky.gov/policies/data/2023-24guidelines.pdf.

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<div style="text-align: center;">KENTUCKY STATI UNIVERSITY</div>


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# CREDITS PROJECT COORDINATOR: Jessica Holman GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Nimi Diffa PHOTOGRAPHERS: KSU Media team | outsource  15

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KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY

# KYSU.EDU ONWARD. UPWARD.

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