Standard 1.5
When the strategic plan revision was completed in the spring of 2026, suggestions from alumni, university administration, and current students were considered. The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) is committed to advancing academic excellence, student success, and professional preparation through a focused set of strategic priorities. Central to this plan is the integration of responsible, ethical, and effective artificial intelligence (AI) practices to enhance teaching, learning, clinical education, and professional development for both faculty and students. The department will continue a comprehensive curriculum review to ensure relevance and alignment with advancing disciplinary standards, while also prioritizing the recruitment and retention of undergraduate students to sustain program vitality. Ongoing efforts to strengthen program assessment will emphasize the systematic use of data to inform decision-making and improve outcomes, ensuring continuous quality improvement. To support hands-on learning, the department will enhance and maintain high-quality clinical experiences that prepare students for professional practice. It will also advocate for increased and sustained university-funded faculty positions, including both clinical and tenured lines, to meet instructional and supervisory demands. Finally, the department will maintain and expand physical and technological resources, including space and specialized equipment, to support instructional delivery, clinical training, and program growth. Collectively, these priorities align with the university’s strategic plan and demonstrate the department’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.