Built for what comes next.
Looking back—and ahead—as URochester hits the midpoint of Boundless Possibility
A plan designed to move with us.
Taking lessons learned from the past, including the unprecedented days of the COVID-19 pandemic, URochester assembled Boundless Possibility with the present and future in mind. Its core elements strengthen the University’s foundation while facilitating the changes that create a more sustainable future. The plan ensures our ability to meet new challenges with ease and jump on emerging opportunities.
During the first three-and-a-half years of this plan, that flexibility has proved essential in turning our ambition into action across the University. We made critical investments in research and interdisciplinary collaboration. We made major strides in enhancing student life while expanding educational pathways. We have reinforced and extended the strength of our healthcare enterprise. And we have improved our faculty and staff environment in way that makes it easier for them to grow and thrive in their careers. At the same time, we’re committing significant resources to our campuses, infrastructure, communities, and financial foundation to ensure URochester’s long-term health and success.
All our work has been in service to a commitment to the essence and promise of “ever better.”
where goals meet tactics
Progress in motion.
Across all five goals, we have reached major milestones and made substantial progress. The following strategic plan highlights provide a snapshot—not a scoreboard—of what the URochester community has collectively achieved to this point.
Research excellence and global reputation
A landmark federal award fuels bold approach to extending lifespans.
National recognition affirming excellence in cancer research, treatment, and discovery.
Federal funding moves a world-leading, high-power laser facility closer to final design.
A growing enterprise brings promising discoveries closer to patients and communities.
Four new centers tackle complex challenges through ambitious collaborative research.
Expanded support equips researchers compete for—and secure—major external funding.
New connections with extend the reach of URochester’s expertise, innovation, and discovery.
A University-wide effort to bring greater visibility to how URochester research makes the world ever better.
Exceptional undergraduate and graduate education
The School of Nursing & Health Sciences expands its mission with plans for new health professions programs.
Flexible degree pathways
New combined and accelerated programs offer more flexible routes to advanced degrees.
Accreditation and national classifications affirm the strength of URochester’s academic enterprise.
The School of Medicine & Dentistry earns national recognition for research.
New education and training pathways open doors to more nursing careers.
Enrollment growth
Coordinated campaigns and new programs are fueling graduate enrollment and growth.
A University-wide internship program connects students experiential learning and career-building opportunities.
New and revitalized spaces cultivate engagement, belonging, and community.
Healthcare of the highest order
Greater clinical integration
Aligning care, operations, and resources creates a more connected and coordinated URochester Medicine.
The hospital’s largest expansion in decades adds capacity for advanced and specialized care.
Renewed federal support accelerates the research journey from scientific discovery to clinical use and better health.
A new world-class center and facility advances care for people affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities.
A new facility expands access to specialized orthopaedic and physical performance care services.
Expanded partnerships and programs respond to emerging health priorities across the communities we serve.
Workforce programs
New academic programs prepare more students for high-demand healthcare careers.
A new leadership structure gives URochester Medicine a more unified vision.
Faculty and staff success
URStars launched University-wide, now with department-level recognition and senior leadership engagement.
First University-wide survey reached 71% participation; 941 leaders trained to turn results into action plans.
462 employees since launch, a planned expansion is being explored. A career navigation pilot are also in development to support career development.
Conflict Resolution
A constructive dialogue program and realigned PADH office offer earlier, less adversarial paths to resolution.
Wellness incentives raised to $450 per person, five new Well-U programs since 2024, a new Emergency Fund, and added investment of ~$1M.
Benefits study + review
Benchmarking and perception study complete; a President-appointed task force is reviewing recommendations to inform a 5-yr benefits strategy.
Listening + change support
Employee forums, leader roadshows, and manager toolkits mean every major initiative has a plan to communicate and listen.
The most complex HR system transition in University history, supported by a 300‑member change network.
Sustainable growth
The strategic acquisition creates new possibilities for campus and community growth.
A new affiliation strengthens connections across the Finger Lakes health network.
Campus investment
Strategic property and facilities investments create room for URochester’s evolving physical footprint.
Financial strength
Strong credit ratings and a new budget model reinforce long-term financial resilience.
Donors to the For Ever Better campaign are providing critical momentum and support for URochester priorities.
University-wide leadership that is guiding the responsible adoption, governance, and strategic use of artificial intelligence.
Free admission removes a barrier, making art more accessible to a broader community.
Data Center
Updating this infrastructure strengthens the digital foundation that supports URochester operations.