This fall, over 100 people volunteered their time to serve on a Strategic Plan committee. Sixteen strategies were assigned leaders and teams were formed. Great work has begun!

As we close out 2016, let's hear from people from the various teams and learn what surprised them the most while working on a strategy team and what they enjoyed the most.

"What surprised me the most is the wide range of understanding regarding the actual meaning or definition of global health, both in the literature, as well as among faculty and staff. Through the process of a survey we conducted, I was made mindful of how important it is to adopt a working definition for DUSON before moving forward too quickly with program development in order for changes to be successful," said Irene Felsman, Global Health Strategy 2.1; Community Health Strategy 2.2

"I have enjoyed delving into the feedback from our team on the suggested tactics and how they perceive each one. I would like to continue working with this team because I feel creating an engaging student-centered learning environment is a critical aspect of the growth of DUSON," said Stephanie Brantley, Education Strategy 1.2

"Working as the lead for the Community Health Improvement Strategy 2.2 has helped me to feel connected to DUSON, the University, and the Durham community more broadly. As a new faculty member, I have really enjoyed the opportunity to work with individuals at the Center for Nursing Research, the Clinical and Translational Science Institute, faculty, staff, and community members with an interest in community and population health improvement. I have also enjoyed learning more about all the opportunities available for doing this work and connecting with organizations outside the walls of Duke, such as the Health Department and community-based organizations. I would definitely like to continue!" said Rosa Gonzalez-Guarda, Community Health Improvement Strategies 1.1 & 2.2

"What surprised me the most was how much I learned about diversity and inclusion efforts underway across Duke University, and how what we are doing here at DUSON fits into the bigger picture. What I most enjoyed was the time spent working with staff and faculty that I had not worked with before — I think these work teams have done a lot to build community within DUSON," said James "Les" Harmon, Education Strategy 1.1; People & Environment Strategy 1.2; Clinical Practice Strategy 1.3

"Self-examination can be an uncomfortable process, but the results from it can be tremendous. While the results are important, the process of deeper engagement with topics and community members has provided wonderful learning opportunities. I enjoy hearing from the experts, and the perspectives of others is also a great way to learn and problem-solve. I have appreciated the communication and transparency thus far, and I'm glad to have an opportunity to be involved and have a voice in the School's evolution and success," said Libby Joyce, Education Strategy 1.1; People & Environment Strategy 1.2.

Thank you to everyone who has invested their time and energy into the implementation process. We look forward to continuing these efforts in 2017.

Past Strategic Planning Updates

Strategic Plan Update: Providing and Promoting Unparalleled Clinical ExpertiseStrategic Plan Update: Leading and Accelerating Nursing Science and Its TranslationStrategic Plan Update: Becoming the Destination for Outstanding TalentStrategic Plan Update: Preparing Nursing Leaders Who Will Shape the FutureStrategic Plan Update: Taking DUSON to the World and Bringing the World to DUSONStrategic Plan Update: Collaborating With the Community to Advance HealthStrategic Plan Update: We're Ready for Take Off & Want You Onboard