Strategic Plan

The five pillars of Georgia Southern's strategic plan, represented by Greek columns, are: one - student success, two - teaching and research, three - inclusive excellence, four - operational efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability and five - community engagement.

People. Purpose. Action

Growing Ourselves to Grow Others.

Sitting at a desk, an MAT student participating in Georgia Southern's Student Teaching Internship reviews a worksheet with an elementary school student.

At Georgia Southern University, our strategic plan details how we are growing ourselves to grow others — investing in our people and clearly defining our goals, objectives and actions, all to help our students and the communities we serve soar to new heights.

At its core, we are in the business of transforming lives. This plan is the result of extensive collaboration to set our vision, define our mission and articulate a strategy for achieving goals that are consistent with the core values of the institution.

Strategic Pillars

The University Strategic Plan goals, objectives and actions are designed around five structural themes–our Strategic Pillars:

Two Georgia Southern B.S. in Construction Management students proudly stand near a system they constructed.

Pillar 1: Student Success

Georgia Southern University is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. Through engagement with the institution and exposure to a student-centered approach, students are able to thrive, reach their goals, and complete their degrees. By providing access to resources for support, as well as strong curricular and co-curricular opportunities, the University promotes the intellectual, personal, and professional development of students. Each student is challenged to define what success means to them and to follow customized, well-supported pathways to success.

Pillar 2: Teaching and Research

Teaching and research are the keystones to advance knowledge, foster creativity, inspire innovation, and improve quality of life. Georgia Southern University will increase investment in research programs, faculty development, and current technologies that enhance the faculty as teacher-scholars and support their ability to model best practices for students. As a result, faculty can improve student learning, prepare students to compete in the global marketplace, and enhance student success by providing access to a complete experiential learning environment that develops students into holistic critical thinkers who contribute as productive citizens to societal enrichment.

Three students smile for the camera during one of Georgia Southern's on-campus cultural events

Pillar 3: Inclusive Excellence

Georgia Southern University celebrates diversity in all its forms. All populations will feel valued and respected, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education, or disability. In addition, the University will capitalize on distinctive, unique campus cultures while encouraging strong institutional unity.

A professor explains the benefits of economic development with a pie chart to a classroom of Georgia Southern students

Pillar 4: Operational Efficiency, Effectiveness and Sustainability

Georgia Southern University will implement robust policies, procedures, and practices to ensure current and future sustainability, highlighting financial management, risk management, and employee satisfaction.

Students work together to establish a new oyster reef restoration site on Hutchinson Island at the Ashepoo River.

Pillar 5: Community Engagement

Community engagement is critical to ensure that Georgia Southern University’s impact extends far beyond the geographic boundaries of its multiple campuses. The University is committed to being a strong partner with community members, area organizations, U.S. military, and local companies. By deepening strategic relationships, expanding cultural opportunities, and encouraging community members to engage, the University will distinguish itself as a valued partner and community resource.