College of Liberal Arts Strategic Plan 2019-2024

Since Purdue’s founding in 1869, the Liberal Arts have been components of a Purdue education. More than half a century ago, President Frederick Hovde established our college, understanding that the liberal arts are integral to a top tier institution of higher learning. As the world continues to change rapidly around us, the liberal arts can be more important than ever.

As emerging technologies unfold making certain that those advances contribute in positive ways will fall to academic, business, community, and government leaders, who define its regulation and liability, and anticipate its consequences, intended and not. From our position at Purdue University, the College of Liberal Arts is well-positioned to contribute to the body of knowledge that empowers future generations to reimagine the world around them and be a force for good.

In the next handful of years, these priorities of the College will shape our progress. They are: 

• Transformative Scholarship
• Innovative Undergraduate Education
• Prestigious Graduate Education
• Influential Societal Engagement

All with Integrated Diversity and Inclusion throughout our endeavors.

The strategic plan that follows was developed in collaboration with a team of faculty and staff representing the College, reviewed by faculty and staff, and endorsed by the CLA Faculty Senate and the the CLA faculty as a whole. Nevertheless, it should be considered a ‘living’ document, subject to essential adjustments, as specifically needed.

With the support and participation of faculty and staff, along with cooperation and collaboration across the University and external constituents, the College will guide itself by this plan as we continue to emerge as a leader in innovative liberal arts education and scholarship.