Big Ideas: Evaluation Process

Step 1 - Initial Evaluation Using Selection Criteria

To be considered, a proposal must be consistent with, and build upon, institutional strengths and values. All such proposals will then be assessed by Executive Council using the following criteria:

• Distinctive and Innovative - Does the proposal build upon an institutional strength in a way that is distinctive, innovative, and forward-thinking, and therefore offer enhanced institutional reputation and visibility?
• Student Learning, Experience, and Impact - Will the proposal have a significant positive impact on student learning, the student experience, or student opportunities?
• Societal Impact and Local/GlobalEngagement - Does the proposal advance important societal goals (by, for instance, preparing students to tackle social or environmental problems or by enhancing access to students of various backgrounds) and/or does it enhance institutional engagement with the local/regional/ global community or other external partners?
• Fundability and Market Demand - Is the proposal financially viable and likely to improve the institution’s financial position? Is the proposal likely to garner support and resources from external sources, such as philanthropy, and is it responsive to likely market demand and student need?

As a result of this initial evaluation, submitters may be asked to consider refinements to their proposals, may be asked to collaborate with other proposal submitters, and may be asked to further develop aspects of their proposal as a result of the initial evaluation.

Institutional resources will be made available as necessary in order to further develop promising proposals.

Step 2 - Refining and Vetting With Key Partners and Stakeholders

Proposals that rise to the top based on the selection criteria will be shared with a select group of presidential advisors, trustees, faculty, staff, and supporters for further vetting and assessment.

Step 3 - Identification of Initial List of Selected Big Ideas

An initial list of selected Big Ideas will be shared with the campus at the beginning of the fall semester 2024. A webpage will be created that includes information about each proposal, as well as an opportunity for members of the campus community to provide feedback.

Step 4 - Campus Engagement

Through campus events and online tools, members of the campus community will be able to learn about potential Big Ideas, provide feedback and assessment, and help strengthen Big Ideas for potential inclusion in the strategic plan and next philanthropic campaign.

Step 5 - Incorporation Into the Strategic Plan and Approval by Board of Trustees

While engaged in the Big Ideas process, we are also drafting a new strategic plan. The elements of the plan will be impacted by the Big Ideas that emerge from this process. These two things—a new strategic plan and a list of approved Big Ideas—must be consistent with and complement each other. We anticipate presenting a new strategic plan to the Board of Trustees in October 2024.