At its regular meeting today, the Coastal Carolina University board of trustees approved a comprehensive strategic plan designed to guide the institution from 2016 to 2021.

The strategic plan, begun in the fall of 2015 under the direction of CCU business professor and associate provost for global initiatives Darla Domke-Damonte, is the result of an intensive and inclusive assessment process involving participation across all sectors of the University. Based on input from surveys, focus groups and task forces with an emphasis on the University's mission and unique opportunities for growth, the plan centers on six key strategies: 1) Academic Excellence and Instructional Quality; 2) Student Excellence; 3) An Engaged Staff and Faculty; 4) Accessibility, Inclusion, Diversity; 5) The CCU Story; and 6) Financial Stability and Infrastructure.

"I believe this plan charts a bold and productive future for Coastal Carolina University," said CCU President David A. DeCenzo. "These strategies will empower CCU to deliver the best possible education to our students and will drive an improved higher education environment for our state, region and world."

Implementation of the new strategic plan will begin in the fall of 2016. Trustees also received training in the areas of Title IX and confidentiality at a retreat held prior to the board meeting.

The board also approved distinguished professor status for faculty member Nicholas W. Twigg, who will retire from the E. Craig Wall Sr. College of Business Administration in August 2017, and the promotion of Denise Williams to senior teaching lecturer in the College of Science. Four lease agreements were also approved by the board.