Updates on the CGS Strategic Planning Process

CGS launched the Strategic Planning process at the Annual Meeting in December. Our “flash polls” during the meeting helped uncover key priorities at our member institutions and identified areas where members seek expanded resources and professional development opportunities.

According to April Boulton, Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate School at Hood College and a member of the Steering Committee guiding the strategic planning process, “Strategic planning enables institutions to anticipate change rather than react to it, which is crucial for the evolving landscape of graduate education.” Boulton added, “CGS’s guidance helps us translate national priorities into local action that truly benefits students.”

Responses to the flash polls also helped shape the development of a member survey and focus groups with a broad cross-section of the CGS membership. Focus groups have been organized by institutional type as well as by topics such as “data, best practices, and professional development needs” and “opportunities for networking and community building.” By this summer, the committee will share insights from the survey and focus groups with the CGS Board of Directors and, in the Fall, provide a first look at areas of priority at a CGS Town Hall. The plan will be presented to the CGS Board for adoption before the end of the year and shared with the membership at the 2026 Annual Meeting in Los Angeles.

“With graduate education at a critical inflection point, rallying stakeholders to collectively set a path forward positions us well for the years ahead,” said Denzil Streete, Senior Associate Dean and Director of the Office of Graduate Education at MIT and a Steering Committee member. “CGS’s strategic planning allows us to shape a stronger future for students and institutions.”

Stay up to date on the planning process for the CGS 2027-2030 Strategic Plan by checking in our Strategic Planning webpage.