Southeast Missouri State University has launched a comprehensive strategic planning process that will guide institutional priorities, decision-making, and investments through 2030. The initiative brings together faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners to create a shared vision for the University’s future and chart a path that strengthens its role in advancing the eastern Missouri region and beyond.
“When we identified those who would serve on the task force, we did so knowing this would be a plan that would guide not only SEMO but also our impact on the region,” said SEMO President Dr. Brad Hodson. “So five of the 18 members of the committee are external to the University. It’s going to be a regional plan, we want people from the region to assist in its development.”
In Hodson’s inauguration address, he challenged the task force to develop a roadmap to move SEMO “Fearlessly Forward.” Hodson said that would include the University being boldly supportive of students, experience driven with immersive learning opportunities, becoming more deeply connected with the region, and being unapologetically proud of SEMO.
The planning process will build a framework that supports enrollment growth and positions SEMO as a leader in academic excellence and workforce development in eastern Missouri.
Task force members held a kickoff meeting on Nov. 20. The group will be hosting listening sessions and focus groups as well as using surveys to gather community involvement and feedback. Task force membership and regular updates can be found at semo.edu/strategicplan. There is also an idea box for anyone who wishes to offer input.
The plan will be completed and presented to SEMO’s Board of Governors for consideration during its June 2026 meeting.