As we look to the future, we are crafting a vision for UNH that is grounded in hope and purpose. We are laying the groundwork for a strategic plan that addresses the question: What do we envision UNH to be in 2030? Through close collaboration between UNH President Elizabeth Chilton and the strategic planning committee, a roadmap is beginning to emerge. We invite you to actively participate in this process, with more opportunities for engagement throughout the semester, including listening sessions in March and April.
Four Strategic Priorities
First Destination
Interdisciplinary
Well-Being
State Impact
First Destination
UNH is a first-choice destination for students seeking public higher education in New England.
UNH is a top destination for students seeking public higher education in New England. While we are already a first-choice university for many, we aim to expand both the number and diversity of our student body—undergraduate and graduate. The committee will assess the needs and expectations of current and prospective students, aligning programs, services and outcomes, while developing strategies to attract, support and retain learners, with a focus on increasing the number of New Hampshire high school students choosing UNH.
Interdisciplinary
UNH has distinctive interdisciplinary education and research strengths.
UNH has distinctive interdisciplinary strengths in education and research. While we will always be a comprehensive university with strengths in the arts, sciences, humanities and professional schools, we also have nationally and internationally recognized expertise in areas such as land, sea, and space science, sustainability and advanced manufacturing. This committee will identify the infrastructure, policies, practices and resources needed to enhance our reputation in interdisciplinary research and education and recommend ways to advance successful interdisciplinary programs.
Well-Being
UNH demonstrates a commitment to well-being and belonging to build community.
UNH is committed to fostering well-being and belonging to build a stronger community. This focus area aims to strengthen and promote UNH—and the surrounding towns—as welcoming, supportive places to learn, live and work. The committee will collaborate with campuses and communities to promote health, well-being, belonging and inclusion by developing innovative programs and policies that address the evolving needs of learners and employees.
State Impact
UNH is recognized for our impact on the state’s strong economy and quality of life.
UNH is recognized for its positive impact on the state’s economy and quality of life. We drive the state’s prosperity forward by developing talent, fostering innovation and strengthening communities. The committee will identify and highlight how UNH's contributions align with the state’s priorities, ensuring the university remains a leader in economic, social and environmental progress.
Committee Membership
Co-Chair: Cyndee Gruden, Interim Provost, VP Academic Affairs, Provost Office
Co-Chair: Danielle O'Neil, Chief Marketing Officer, Marketing
Co-Chair: Kim DeRego, V. Provost, Enrollment, Provost Office
Co-Chair: Vidya Sundar, Associate Professor, CHHS
Lu Echazu: Associate Dean, Paul College
Jesse Stabile Morrell: Asst Dean, Lec., COLSA
Ashby Kinch: Vice-Provost & Dean, Graduate School
Christa Ricker: Director of New Student and Family Programs, Student Life
Tessa Marinello: Student, 1st year representative, COLA
Sarah Dorner: Assistant Dean for Grad Admissions & International Outreach, Law
Michaela Sabin: Professor, CPS
Co-Chair: Paul Robertson, Sr. Lecturer, Dir. of Hamel UG Research Center, COLA
Co-Chair: Anthony Davis Dean, COLSA
Mark Milutonivoch: Ex. Dir., Large Center Development, REEO
Ruth Varner: Prof, CEPS
Stephen Bird: Director, Carsey
Sonic Woytonik: Sr. Lecturer
Rawan AlSarraf: Ph.D. student in Agriculture, Nutritional and Food Systems, COLSA
Co-Chair, Kathleen Grace-Bishop, Director, Ed. and Promotion, Health and Wellness
Co-Chair: Jeffrey M Halpern, Department of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering and Chair, Faculty Senate
Kendra Lewis: Associate State Specialist/Extension Professor
Guangzhou Chen: Assistant Professor, Department of Recreation Management and Policy; Extension Affiliate Faculty, Community and Economic Development
Annie Nevells: Dir. Grad Enrollment/Advising, Paul College
Nadine Petty: AVP and CDO, Pres. Office
Maggie McGrath: Student Senate Health and Wellness Council, Chair
Lisa Enright: Asst. Dean, Student Success, CPS at UNH Manchester
Fumi Kimura: Deputy Director of Athletics
Co-Chair: Charlie French, Assoc. Ext. Professor, Ext Team Lead, Extension
Co-Chair: Tom Cronin, Chief of Staff, President's Office
Justine Stadler: Director of Corporate Engagement, REEO
Mike Decelle Dean: CPS, UNH-M
Mary Stampone: Assoc Prof, COLA
Michele Holt Shannon: Director, NH Listens, Carsey School
Raina Sprauge: Executive Director, Employer Relations, CaPS
Jayson Seaman: Dept. Chair, Rec Mgmt. and Policy
Seth Oranburg: Professor, Law
