Strategic Framework
Forward, Together
A shared compass for the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s future
At a moment of tremendous opportunity and rapid and often disruptive change, we are focusing on what it means to be a leading university in the 21st century, recommitting to a modern conception of the Wisconsin Idea, and redefining how we deliver on our mission.
This is the ambition of our strategic framework. Launched in 2026, this five-year framework is a living document crafted from the input of thousands in our community, built upon our history, and providing a shared compass for us as we move Forward, Together the Badger Way.
The strategic framework does not prescribe a single pathway; it is, by design, not a strategic plan. It is meant to be a guide for our schools, colleges, departments, divisions, and partners to create and pursue an array of aligned strategies and plans so we can meet the emerging opportunities of our time while remaining pragmatic about the local, national, and global challenges ahead.
Our guiding ethos
Forward, Together: the Wisconsin Idea and the Badger Way
Our strategic framework is rooted both in the deeply held values that have sustained our excellence for nearly two centuries and in our aspirations to reach even greater heights. Together, the Wisconsin Idea and the Badger Way define our purpose and promise, shape how we work and live, and express our commitment to a campus culture defined by belonging and flourishing.
The Wisconsin Idea
The Wisconsin Idea is our “why”: the university’s work and its impact should benefit every corner of the state and, in today’s world, far beyond. We measure our success by how our teaching, research, and outreach improve lives, strengthen communities, support a healthy democracy, and produce innovation for the public good.
We aspire to fulfill the promise of the Wisconsin Idea.
The Badger Way
The Badger Way is our “how”: we approach our work with curiosity, humility, integrity, tenacity, civility, and a bit of playfulness. The Badger Way shapes how we teach and learn, how we collaborate, how we navigate conflict, and how we steward the public’s trust. It also describes how we show up for one another through our Community Commitments, practicing civility, embracing complexity, fostering connection, and supporting all Badgers as they learn, grow, and pursue excellence.
Our Priorities
Identifying UW–Madison’s strategic priorities
The strategic framework was shaped by a collaborative, cross-campus process that began in 2025 and reflects the input of thousands of faculty, staff, and students, as well as alumni and community partners. It represents a shared vision for the future, focused on four strategic priorities that will inform the way we work together to fulfill our mission in the years ahead.
Deliver unrivaled educational experiences to prepare students for their future
Prepare students to thrive on campus, in work and life, and as citizens of a dynamic world.
Discover, create, and innovate to change lives
Lead in cutting-edge research and push the boundaries of human understanding to address challenges and enrich lives.
Convene and collaborate for the public good
Deepen and broaden partnerships and co-create solutions that benefit the people of Wisconsin and beyond.
Cultivate a culture of excellence to ensure a resilient future
Support and strengthen our foundation — people, culture, and operations — so we can deliver on our mission for generations to come.
Community Commitments
Integral to the success of our strategic priorities, our Community Commitments operationalize one key aspect of the Badger Way: how we show up for one another as members of the UW–Madison community. These commitments include practicing civility, embracing complexity, fostering connection, and supporting all Badgers as they learn, grow, and pursue excellence. They help create a community where everyone can participate and contribute to advancing the Wisconsin Idea.
Moving FoRward
What’s next
The strategic framework is intentionally high level, meant to allow us to adapt, evolve, and remain resilient in the face of change. The work of bringing the framework to life will happen through school, college, and divisional strategic plans; campuswide initiatives; and collaboration between our students, staff, faculty, alumni, and partners.
We will hold ourselves accountable through shared ownership, cross-campus alignment, and coordinated goal setting and tracking.
Consider how you can:
- Embrace the framework as your own and align your work, research, teaching, learning, and service with our shared priorities and values.
- Familiarize yourself with our Community Commitments and the ways in which you help define what it means to be a Badger.
- Organize and participate in campus opportunities to actively shape UW–Madison’s future.
Strategic framework at a glance
Abbreviated PDF versions of the strategic framework are available for download.
Translations
A PDF of the long version in plain text is available in the following languages.