The University of North Texas (UNT) has launched its strategic plan, Look North: UNT 2030, to foster lasting value for students and communities. Led by President Harrison Keller, the initiative focuses on developing student potential, discovering innovative solutions, and driving economic growth.
President Keller emphasized the university’s role in enhancing public good, stating, “Look North: UNT 2030 reflects our commitment to guide grit to greatness.” The new plan aims to prepare students for success while contributing to regional and national leadership.
Recognizing the university’s demographic diversity, where 75% of undergraduates are from North Texas, nearly half are from low-income families, and over 40% are first-generation college students, UNT focuses on access to affordable and high-quality education. The institution’s recent rise to 34th place on U.S. News & World Report’s “Top Performers on Social Mobility” list underscores its commitment to social mobility.
The strategic plan will be accompanied by a campaign, Better Look North, aiming to raise $100 million. Vice President for University Advancement Brandon Buzbee highlighted that “this campaign is about unlocking potential” through scholarships and career-connected learning opportunities.
Key Elements of Look North: UNT 2030
- Invest in Talent: Modernize curriculum, expand student success systems, and enhance faculty and staff development.
- Scale What Works: Grow high-impact programs and deepen industry and community partnerships.
- Accelerate Innovation: Position UNT as a national model for turning research into real-world solutions.
Denton Mayor Gerard Hudspeth expressed appreciation for UNT’s community collaboration, seeing the university as a “catalyst for our community.” UNT’s ongoing projects, including its Frisco campus initiatives, support these aims through industry partnerships and flexible program delivery.
President and CEO of DATCU, Melanie Vest, emphasized the strategic plan’s potential to advance North Texas’ economic development: “President Keller’s vision for the future of UNT is a strong indicator that the university will remain poised to drive North Texas’ economic growth and workforce development for generations to come.”
The newly unveiled plan will be executed in three phases over five years, focusing on measurable outcomes such as student retention and graduation rates, research development, and career success for alumni in high-demand fields.
Further details can be found at strategicplan.unt.edu.