University Goals
To advance William & Mary's distinctive excellence and achieve our vision for the future, we will pursue the following high-level goals.
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Expand W&M's Reach
Address global challenges, forge dynamic partnerships to fuel positive change and model democratic ideals to extend its influence in the world.
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Educate for Impact
Reimagine the liberal arts and professional education in the 21st century to ensure the lifelong success of our graduates.
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Evolve to Excel
Embrace change to achieve our full potential in environmental and financial sustainability, in diversity, equity and inclusion, and in operational excellence.
Meeting the Most Pressing Needs of Our Time
W&M’s strategic plan, Vision 2026, tackles 21st-century imperatives directly, expanding our reach in data and computational sciences, water conservation, the history and future of democracy and career pathways for graduates.
Vision 2026 Updates from President Rowe
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Unprecedented, As Usual
Pride in our resilience, pride in our ability to adapt: These are inspirations for William & Mary's new strategic plan.
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W&M's Greatest Tradition
With each generation, W&M has graduated leaders who have served our nation and sought to perfect our democracy.
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Critical Thinking With Data
By 2026, W&M will invest in four key areas where the university already has deep strengths.
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Big Wins & Extraordinary Achievements
Our strategic plan is coming into focus with concrete initiatives in data, water, democracy and careers.
University Initiatives
In the next five years, we will build on our strengths and focus efforts on four cornerstone initiatives — that are pan-university and transcend all of the goals — of significant local, national and global impact.

Data
William & Mary will lead the evolution of the liberal arts and sciences by integrating computational thinking and data fluency into a bold and dynamic learning experience that advances inquiry, discovery and innovation.

Water
William & Mary will lead in finding innovative solutions to ensure the resilience of the world’s oceans, coasts and waterways.

Democracy
William & Mary will lead essential efforts to practice and promote democratic ideals in the pursuit of a more perfect union.

Careers
William & Mary will lead in the preparation of lifelong learners equipped to navigate rapid change and thrive from their first job to their last.
What is Vision 2026?
What impact will the university's strategic plan have on the entire William & Mary community and beyond? How does it position the university to address pressing global challenges? Are there opportunities for me to get involved? President Katherine Rowe, Provost Peggy Agouris, Former Vice Provost for Academic and International Affairs Steve Hanson and Chief Career Officer Kathleen Powell discuss W&M's roadmap for the future.
Planning In
Discover specific ways units are planning in to these university goals and initiatives.