In the fall of 2018, NKU began the strategic planning process to develop a plan for 2019-2022. Please review the Success by Design website for the latest information on implementation and progress.
NKU’s Success by Design strategic framework was developed entirely around a singular focus: student success. NKU’s success as a university and regional partner is determined by its students’ success.
NKU’s Success by Design strategic framework is intended to help reclaim public trust in the value of a college degree from Northern Kentucky University. Success by Design is intended to shift the paradigm from “Are students ready for NKU?” to “Is NKU ready for all learners?” Success by Design will be the strategic framework for how NKU delivers support, services, and programs to all learners—not just traditional students—by meeting the learners where they are at in their educational journey.
Success by Design was originally approved by the Board of Regents as the university's strategic plan for 2019-2022. In September 2021, the framework's timeline was extended by the Board of Regents through summer of 2025.
In fall 2025, NKU will launch its new strategic plan for 2025–2028. The planning process began in spring 2024, and Forward Together was presented to the Board of Regents in June 2025. Please visit the website for the most up-to-date information on implementation progress and key performance indicators.
