To enhance educational opportunities at the baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral level that are responsive to the intellectual, cultural, and economic needs of the region and which serve a diverse community of learners.

To increase access to degree and non-degree programs through distance education and the use of technology.

To develop nationally recognized programs of research and scholarship that will expand the frontiers of knowledge, solve problems at the interface of disciplines, and promote the application of discovery.

To respond to regional needs and contribute to the economic future of the region through leadership in service, research, and education and through partnerships with public, private, and non-profit organizations.

To provide high quality and accessible advising and other services which enhance educational opportunities and promote student achievement and personal growth.

To support the success of faculty and staff in teaching, research, and service through career development opportunities, mentoring, and access to critical human and physical infrastructure.

To graduate students with intellectual and professional skills and a global perspective that can be broadly applied in an ever-changing world.

To promote an environment that embraces the benefits of diversity in education, research, and service.

To create a flexible, responsible culture that uses effective review and assessment as the basis for improvement.