2020: FIT at 75

Strategic planning can be described as the process an organization uses to formulate an idea of how it should develop, to transform that idea into a list of workable objectives, and to devise a plan to achieve those objectives. In higher education, strategic planning began to proliferate in the 1980s, and it has become an important tool for colleges and universities as they grow and evolve to meet the needs of their constituents.

Though many organizations talk about strategic planning, few actually do it, says Jeffrey Buchman, chairperson of FIT's Faculty Association. Of those that do it, only a handful execute the plan. In order for a plan to succeed, there must be institutional participation on a wide scale. The structure of this effort is a step in the right direction to realizing the goals set by the process.

In spring 2003, FIT issued a Request for Proposal to engage a consulting firm to support the colleges effort to develop a strategic plan for the long- and short-term, beginning with fiscal year 2006. The Learning Alliance for Higher Education (TLA) was retained for that purpose in June 2004.

This strategic planning effort, 2020: FIT at 75, will provide the matrix necessary to support the continuing evolution of both the institution and the fashion industry. President Joyce F. Brown will present the results of the process, which will take place during the academic year, at the faculty convocation in August 2005. That document will represent a year of focused effort on the part of the college community, but the work wont end there. The goals it sets forth will be milestones to mark the way as FIT continues to plot its course for the future.

For additional information about strategic planning and its role in institutional development, please visit the following websites:

FIT Strategic Plan