From the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Buffalo State University is beginning an important process to develop our next Strategic Plan, and we invite members of our campus community to express their interest in serving on the University Planning Council (UPC).

The University Planning Council will serve as the Strategic Planning Steering Committee and will play a central role in shaping the university's strategic direction. The Council will help lead an inclusive, collaborative, and data-informed planning process designed to engage our campus community and identify the priorities that will guide the university in the years ahead.

The work of the UPC will include reviewing institutional and environmental data; engaging faculty, staff, students, and community stakeholders; participating in focus groups and SWOT activities; identifying emerging priorities; and helping develop the strategic pillars, goals, objectives, and key performance indicators that will form the foundation of the university's new Strategic Plan.

We are seeking individuals who are interested in contributing their perspectives, experience, and ideas to this important work. We encourage participation from across the university community and welcome interest from individuals representing different areas, roles, experiences, and perspectives.

What to Expect

Members of the University Planning Council should be prepared to:

• Participate actively in Council meetings and planning activities;
• Engage thoughtfully with institutional data and stakeholder feedback;
• Listen to and consider perspectives from across the university community;
• Participate in working groups or subcommittees as needed;
• Help develop and refine strategic priorities, goals, and measurable outcomes;
• Be available to participate in strategic planning activities during J-Term/winter break, as needed; and
• Commit to a collaborative planning process through the completion of the Strategic Plan in Spring 2027.

The strategic planning process will move quickly over the coming months, with opportunities for broad campus engagement, development and review of the draft plan, and final governance consideration.

Interested in Serving?

Faculty, staff, and other eligible members of the university community who would like to be considered for service on the University Planning Council are invited to complete the University Planning Council Interest Form: University Planning Council Interest Form.

Please submit your expression of interest by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

Submitting the form indicates your interest in being considered for appointment. Council membership will be structured to ensure broad representation from across the university.

The development of our next Strategic Plan is an opportunity to think boldly and collaboratively about the university's future. We hope you will consider lending your voice, expertise, and perspective to this important work. Thank you for your continued commitment to our students and to the future of our university.