Strategic Framework 2026–2030
Built for the moment — advancing the future
The University’s next chapter
For more than 165 years, the University of Washington has transformed lives and strengthened communities across the state, the Pacific Northwest, the United States and the world. In a time of rapid technological, scientific and societal change, we enter our next chapter with clarity and confidence. Our sense of purpose is grounded in who we are as an institution, defined by the people, places and communities we serve. We are strengthened by the diverse perspectives, backgrounds and experiences they bring and guided by enduring values of equity, inclusion and a shared sense of belonging. Our work is energized by breakthroughs that expand what is possible, built upon the strengths of liberal education and basic research that cultivate curiosity, critical thinking and long-term discovery.
The UW leads from this foundation with boldness and imagination. We are empowered by possibility and the strength of our deep, cross-sector partnerships to pursue challenges without boundaries. This strategic framework reflects this moment and that opportunity. It begins with the strengths and values that define us, sets a clear vision for the next five years and establishes four pillars to guide our choices and investments. The pillars help create an inclusive environment where all students, faculty and staff can thrive. They also reinforce our foundational commitment to stewardship, to keep the UW strong for future generations.
A future-focused vision
At the heart of this framework is a vision of a University that brings people, ideas and technologies together in radically innovative ways to improve the lives of people across Washington state and beyond.
Charting an ambitious path forward
The strategic framework’s four pillars were shaped by the insights and aspirations of UW students, trainees, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as partners from government, industry and our communities. These pillars reflect our shared ambition for how the UW can better contribute to those we serve, and they guide the actions and investments needed to build a more innovative, equitable and resilient future for all.
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Pillar 1
Delivering high-quality, debt-free education that unlocks opportunity
We’ll expand access to a high-quality education that prepares Huskies for a spectrum of career paths and civic life, ensuring that a UW education opens doors for every learner — and equips them with enduring skills.
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Pillar 2
Engaging in radical collaborations for breakthroughs and public benefit
Through trusted partnerships with communities and across sectors, we’ll accelerate breakthroughs in science, technology and creativity — translating progress and discoveries into real-world impact.
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Pillar 3
Strengthening healthier communities where everyone can thrive
We’ll expand access to high-quality, equitable health care; strengthen the health workforce; drive technogical innovation to improve health; and harness research to address the interconnected factors that shape how long and well people live.
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Pillar 4
Stewarding and growing the people and resources that support our mission and strategic initiatives
We will steward resources on behalf of the public, invest in employees, strengthen our financial future — and work across all campuses and divisions to make the UW one of the best places in the world to work and learn.
Leading with boldness and imagination
This is a time of extraordinary possibility — and these strategic priorities position the University of Washington to meet the needs of the moment.
Together, guided by our values and strengthened by our partnerships, we will elevate education, innovation and collaboration in ways that benefit people and communities, shaping a healthier, more equitable future.
To make this vision a reality, the entire UW community will further these priorities in classrooms, labs, clinics and communities — supporting our students, strengthening our workforce, deepening community partnerships, and advancing the ideas and research that improve lives across Washington and the world.
Full Strategic Framework
Go deeper into the Strategic Framework, which will serve as a comprehensive guide to help the UW meet new challenges, serve our communities and harness new opportunities.