Have you ever wondered if the things you’re focused on at work are the right things? Do your teams understand how the work they do fits into the office’s larger goals, or the institution’s? Engaging in strategic planning can help with both of those questions, but it’s always seemed a little daunting. In this episode we talk to Dani Ambrose and Dr. Kelley Jenkins from the University of Mississippi about a simplified approach to strategic planning that is accessible to all, extensible, and can be used by everyone from individuals, teams, to your entire office.      

Key Takeaways:

• Strategic planning is about identifying where you are, where you’ve been, and where you want to go. It’s as simple as that. 
• Start slowly: don’t try to eat the whole elephant in one bite. It’s important to listen first, get your team talking, and then guide them through using various tools to help surface strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, values, and areas of focus. 

Host:

Doug McKenna, University Registrar
George Mason University
cmckenn@gmu.edu 

Guests:

Dani Ambrose, Registrar
University of Mississippi Main Campus
deambros@olemiss.edu 

Dr. Kelley Jenkins, Associate Registrar
University of Mississippi Main Campus
kdjames@olemiss.edu 

References and Additional Information:

Strategic Planning and Assessment Worksheets (tools described in the episode)

Collaborative Assessment and Strategic Planning (2024 Annual Meeting Presentation)

AACRAO Core Competencies - Change Management

AACRAO Core Competencies - Leadership & Management

AACRAO Professional Proficiencies - Records and Academic Services