Foundational Commitments
In addition to the four strategic priorities, a number of foundational commitments have been identified that focus on our people and processes, and the ways in which we can achieve a more sustainable campus.
Our exceptional faculty and staff are the University’s most cherished resource, ensuring our students receive the highest levels of educational, ethical, and emotional support to flourish and find their paths at Santa Clara. However, the high cost of living in Silicon Valley, especially housing affordability, challenges our ability to continue to retain and recruit top talent. Compensation and home ownership are critical priorities for our employees to thrive at Santa Clara.
At the same time, we need to develop better data-driven, multiyear planning models that enable us to align programs and resources with long-term strategic plan priorities, measure progress, and adjust for success. This is particularly important in a resource-constrained, competitive higher-education market that is being disrupted by new technologies. To succeed, we must be more nimble, efficient, and effective.
Finally, as a Jesuit and Catholic university, our approach to people and operations includes promoting sustainable ways of working for the betterment of our environment. The Princeton Review has recognized our University as among the top 30 universities in the nation for our sustainable practices. Our foundational commitments focus on continuing progress as a national leader in sustainability.
GOAL 1:
Ensure those who carry out our most important work have the resources to thrive
Initiatives include:
- Develop and implement market-driven compensation packages for all faculty and staff, building upon the multi-phase compensation initiatives currently underway
- Launch a revolving, shared-equity investment fund to support home ownership
GOAL 2:
Develop a long-term, multiyear financial model that ensures our financial viability and better aligns existing resources with our long-term strategic needs
Initiatives include:
- Refine the University budget process
- Develop revenue growth plans and cost saving measures for each division
GOAL 3:
Enhance operational effectiveness
Initiatives include:
- More effectively share and leverage data to enhance key decisions
- Strategically integrate emerging technologies into University operations
GOAL 4:
Position Santa Clara toward becoming a climate-positive university
Initiatives include:
- Reduce the University's carbon footprint
- Employ sustainable operational practices in procurement, waste management, water use, and landscaping