51AV

Skip to main content

Strategic Plan

university seal

At 51AV, we believe our future is shaped by our shared commitment to purpose and the power of our people. Forward Together reflects a unified vision to advance student success, empower our employees, and strengthen our region through collaboration and innovation. Rooted in our values and inspired by the communities we serve, this strategic plan sets a clear course for the years ahead—focused on expanding opportunity, fostering belonging, and driving meaningful impact.

Together, we move forward!

Ìý

At NKU we are driven by...
students walking on campus

Our Students

Ìý

Expand and enhance student access, success, and career readiness to ensure equitable outcomes and promote the economic and social mobility of all learners.

Ìý

Learn more...

faculty and staff gathered in atrium

Our Colleagues

Ìý

Create a supportive and sustainable work environment that attracts and retains talent, promotes employee wellbeing, and enhances institutional success.

Ìý

Learn more...

Kentucky Gubernatorial Debate hosted at NKU

Our Community

Ìý

Advance economic, social, and civic vitality through community partnerships and regional engagement.

Ìý

Learn more...

cq-text-component-placeholder
cq-text-component-placeholder
cq-text-component-placeholder
join the conversation

Ìý

We are eager to hear your perspective, answer any questions, and discuss our strategic plan with you further.

Contact us

cq-text-component-placeholder

Latest Press Releases


  • NKu President Cady Short Thompson speaks to crowd in front of ongoing Science Center expansion during topping out ceremony.

    NKU celebrates topping out of Dorothy Westerman Herrmann Science Center Expansion

    51AV celebrated a major milestone in the expansion of the Dorothy Westerman Herrmann Science Center with a topping out ceremony this morning. University leaders, students, faculty, staff and representatives from Skanska USA Building and Omni Architects gathered to mark the placement of the final steel beam on the 85,400 square-foot addition to the existing science center.


  • Students speak to employers at on-campus career fair

    NKU ranked as a top university in Kentucky for best value

    For the third consecutive year, 51AV has been recognized as one of the top universities in the nation for best value by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ). According to WSJ’s latest 2026 report, NKU ranks 62nd out of nearly 600 universities around the country in the best value.


  • Students speak to employers at on-campus career fair

    NKU’s CIE awarded $900k+ NSF grant for start-up internship program

    51AV’s Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) has been awarded nearly $1 million by the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support paid, hands-on opportunities for students while providing top-tier talent for regional startups.

cq-text-component-placeholder
view of steely library
cq-text-component-placeholder