24
October
2019
|
16:46 PM
America/Chicago

President's Message: University Bridge Plan

Dear UHD Community,

This fall, UHD opened its Sciences & Technology Building and welcomed a record number of students (including the institution’s largest freshman class) to campus. Additionally, UHD’s $2 billion contributions to the region were cited in a new economic impact study and planning is under way for the new Student Wellness & Success Center.

These are just some of our University’s recent accomplishments. During its nearly 50-year history, this institution has had any number of milestones that contributed to the growth of our city and its residents. Those proud moments, however, were made possible through the thoughtful planning of faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends of the University.

As you might be aware, the University is entering the final year of a 10-year strategic plan. Next year, we continue the strategic planning process with the development of the Bridge Plan. The Bridge Plan will create a framework based on the existing strategic plan’s mission, vision and core values and ultimately, lead to a Beyond 50 Strategic Plan to launch in 2024 (the year of UHD’s 50th anniversary).

Your voice will play a critical role as we develop the Bridge Plan. This initiative will include work groups and a steering committee that will provide ample opportunity for participation and input. It also will be based on public conversations on UHD’s future. Discussions will take place in forums and town halls facilitated by groups such as Faculty Senate, Staff Council and the Student Government Association.

It goes without saying that UHD…much like our city…has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades. Now, you have an opportunity to help shape UHD’s future as an institution of higher education. Share your thoughts during upcoming Bridge Plan events. Your perspectives on where UHD is now … and where it’s headed…are essential to this process.

Years from now, UHD will have more landmark achievements that will contribute to the growth of our students and the region. These accomplishments will be made possible through your commitment to this University.

Further updates on the Bridge Plan will be available soon, and details and a timeline are available here.

I look forward to working with you as we develop the Bridge Plan and prepare to steer UHD into its 50th anniversary and beyond. Thank you for your participation.

Sincerely,

Dr. Juan Sánchez Muñoz
UHD President

 

About the University of Houston-Downtown

The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is the second-largest university in Houston and has served the educational needs of the nation’s fourth-largest city since 1974. As one of four distinct public universities in the University of Houston System, UHD is a comprehensive, four-year university led by President Loren J. Blanchard. Annually, UHD educates approximately 14,000 students, boasts more than 66,000 alumni, and offers 45 bachelor’s degrees, 12 master’s degrees, and 19 online programs within four colleges: Marilyn Davies College of Business, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Public Service, and College of Sciences and Technology. UHD has one of the lowest tuition rates in Texas.

U.S. News and World Report ranked UHD among the nation’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Applied Administration and Best Online Master’s Programs in Criminal Justice, as well as a Top Performer in Social Mobility. The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse ranked UHD one of the best colleges in the U.S. for its 2024 rankings, with notable distinctions: No. 1 for diversity (tied) and No. 3 for student experience. The University is designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, a Minority-Serving Institution, and a Military Friendly School. For more information on the University of Houston-Downtown, visit uhd.edu.