Mission, Vision, Values, and Initiatives in the College of Health Sciences

Summary

We put students first. Our strategic plan, our mission, our values, and our goals—and the action plans that follow—revolve around this mantra. Importantly, students first does not replace student-centeredness: rather, it complements and expands it. Similarly, our strategic plan does not supplant the university’s, but supports and bolsters it.

Much of our strategic plan is focused on creating a strong, unified college. As a natural consequence of NextGen, our college has changed. We are taking this opportunity to pursue change for the better. Specifically, a better working environment for all faculty, staff, and management, and most importantly, a better educational experience for all our students.

Below, we outline where we are, where we want to be, and how we will get there, and we’ll conclude with a discussion of how our strategic plan aligns with the president’s goals for the university.

Current State

Mission

The College of Health Sciences at Indiana University of Pennsylvania is dedicated to advancing health and wellness through interprofessional education and collaboration, evidence-based practice, and innovative research. We strive to address health inequities and enhance access to quality care in our local and rural communities. Our commitment to experiential learning empowers students to become transformative leaders in healthcare, fostering an inclusive environment that prioritizes the well-being of all community members.

Core Values

Values Summary Statement: Student-centeredness is the foundation of everything we do as we strive to make a meaningful impact in healthcare education and practice while we support our students’ professional development and growth.

1. Collaboration: We believe in the power of interprofessional teamwork, fostering strong partnerships among students, faculty, alumni, and community partners to enhance healthcare delivery.

2. Innovation: We are committed to staying at the forefront of healthcare education and research, embracing new ideas and technologies that improve practice and patient outcomes.

3. Equity: We strive to foster an inclusive environment that addresses and seeks to eliminate health disparities, ensuring equitable access to care for all individuals.

4. Community Engagement: We are dedicated to serving our local and rural communities, prioritizing initiatives that improve health and wellness for all residents.

5. Experiential Learning: We promote hands-on, real-world learning experiences that empower students to apply their knowledge and skills in meaningful ways.

6. Wellness: We prioritize the health and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, clients, and community members, cultivating a culture of wellness that supports holistic health.

Future State

Vision

We envision a future where the College of Health Sciences is a leader in transforming healthcare education and practice. By embracing cutting-edge knowledge and innovative approaches, we will cultivate a diverse and skilled workforce ready to meet the evolving needs of our communities. Together, we will build a more equitable healthcare system that promotes wellness and enhances health outcomes for all, particularly in underserved populations.

Priorities and Goals

1. Maintain the highest quality of education.

2. Sustain and grow our programs through careful maintenance and planning of our resources.

3. Maintain a college culture that values individual faculty contributions in teaching, scholarship, and service.

4. Sustain and reinforce a culture of communication and support that encourages collaboration.

5. Act rather than react.