UCM Athletics Launches New, Five-Year Strategic Plan

WARRENSBURG, Mo. – University of Central Missouri Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Matt Howdeshell announced Friday, August 9, the implementation of a new, five-year strategic plan for the UCM Athletics. The plan, UCM PRIDE, establishes a new vision, mission, and values for the department moving into the 2024-25 athletic year.

"Planning is necessary for success, but it is also a chance to celebrate who we are and what we represent," Howdeshell said. "During this process we engaged a broad range of stakeholders to involve them in the process and solicit their feedback. This input created a collaborative plan that is truly unique to UCM. Strategic planning is also about being bold and innovative. This plan represents our commitment to being trend-setters and problem solvers in paving the way forward for this generation of student-athletes and those to follow." 

UCM Athletics Vision:
"To inspire champions on their journey to success."

UCM Athletics Mission:
"University of Central Missouri Athletics is the premier NCAA D-II athletic program, helping Mules and Jennies reach their potential by providing an exceptional experience and inspiring PRIDE in our community."

UCM Athletics Values: PRIDE

Perseverance

• We engage challenges with purpose and enthusiasm.

Respect

• We value and appreciate individual differences.

Integrity

• We show initiative and are accountable for our actions.

Diligence

• We celebrate our tradition, while making each day better than the last.

Excellence

• We are champions in ALL that we do.

UCM Athletics Objectives:

• Student-Athlete Experience: UCM Athletics' support system for student-athletes will prioritize their mental and physical well-being while striving for competitive excellence.
• Athletics Personnel: UCM Athletics' personnel plan will prioritize recruiting, retaining, and developing the best staff in the MIAA through a culture that emphasizes relationships, professionalism, and enjoyment.
• Community: UCM Athletics will bring positive national exposure and pride to UCM and the Central Missouri region. We engage the community to unite and connect to the institution and celebrate being a part of the Mule and Jenny family, while expanding our presence on-campus, locally, regionally, and digitally.
• Facilities: UCM Athletics will provide top-tier facilities for our student-athletes to maximize their athletic and academic potential while also enhancing the fan experience.
• Championship Resources: UCM Athletics will provide championship-level resources in a fiscally responsible manner.

The new plan's vision, mission and values are closely aligned with those of the University of Central Missouri and the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA), ensuring that UCM student-athletes have a consistent and coherent experience in all facets of their collegiate life.

For more in-depth details on the new strategic plan, click here.