Urban-serving universities are uniquely positioned at the intersection of postsecondary education, economic mobility, and community transformation. As institutions rooted in and accountable to their metropolitan communities, Coalition of Urban Serving Universities (USU) member universities are not only engines of opportunity but also essential partners in addressing the most urgent social and economic challenges of our time. USU exists to support and amplify this work.  

In an era marked by shifting public confidence in higher education, scrutiny of institutional outcomes, and a growing demand for equity and impact, USU's role as a national voice and convener has never been more important. The strategic plan presented here is grounded in a set of shared commitments:  

• Strengthening university-community partnerships.  

• Advancing public policy and funding environments that reflect the needs and strengths of urban research universities.  

• Deepening peer learning and collaboration across institutions.  

• Supporting equitable student success at scale. 

 

About the Planning Process 

USU launched this strategic planning process in late 2023 to clarify the Coalition’s long-term direction, deepen member engagement, and align its programmatic and advocacy efforts with current and emerging needs. The process has been facilitated by Sova Solutions and involved multiple rounds of input from USU staff and senior leadership, the USU Board of Directors, and leaders of member campuses, postsecondary-focused philanthropy, and national partners and other constituents. Key inputs included a series of facilitated discussions, document reviews, and synthesis of past and ongoing initiatives. USU also reflected on how best to align its efforts with the evolving priorities of APLU, national philanthropy, and the broader higher education field.  

 

This process resulted in four strategic priorities that will serve as pillars for USU activities and engagements for 2025-2028 along with several goals under each priority.  

 

Strategic Priorities 

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Priority 1: Shape National Conversations on Urban Higher Education  

Advance thought leadership, scholarship, and advocacy that elevate the role of urban-serving universities. 

Long-Term Goals: 

1. Position USU as a national authority on urban-serving postsecondary education through a coordinated media and communications strategy. 

1. Communicate compelling research, data, and stories that highlight the distinct value and impact of urban-serving institutions. 

1. Facilitate research and inquiry focused on equitable student success in urban contexts. 

1. Establish a signature USU convening to bring together institutional leaders, policymakers, and key partners. 

 

Priority 2: Ensure Financial Strength to Sustain and Expand Impact 

Diversify revenue streams and enhance member value to support organizational stability and growth. 

Long-Term Goals: 

1. Design a comprehensive funding strategy combining philanthropy, sponsorships, and public funding. 

1. Pursue mission-aligned partnerships across sectors (e.g., workforce, K-12, private industry). 

1. Develop a USU-branded initiative (e.g., academy, credential, or knowledge hub) that advances the mission and generates revenue. 

1. Share research and practices with non-members to grow awareness and engagement. 

 

Priority 3: Strengthen University-Community Partnerships 

Elevate the role of member institutions as place-based anchors committed to local vitality and well-being. 

Long-Term Goals: 

1. Establish an external advisory council of non-higher education stakeholders. 

1. Develop a shared impact framework to track and communicate contributions to local communities. 

1. Launch a competitive grant program to support innovative partnership models. 

1. Collaborate with APLU to advocate for legislation and policies that support deeper engagement between urban-serving research universities, their students, and their communities. 

 

Priority 4: Deepen Member Collaboration and Elevate USU’s Influence 

Foster a connected and collaborative network that drives collective action. 

Long-Term Goals: 

1. Expand peer learning through working groups, site visits, and case studies. 

1. Build a digital platform for sharing tools, insights, and promising practices. 

1. Launch a leadership development program tailored to the needs of urban university leaders. 

1. Strengthen USU’s visibility and influence within APLU.