The strategic plan is the product of a robust process that involved teams of faculty, students, staff, alumni, parents, and Board of Trustees members developing an ambitious path to guide the university for the next five years. The plan is rooted in AU’s existing strengths while embracing the future, with all the opportunities and challenges that future presents. The plan draws on an extensive analysis of AU’s current strengths, opportunities, and positioning relative to our peers; an examination of best practices and trends in higher education; and, most importantly, robust input and feedback from a wide range of AU community members at all stages of development.