Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Does this mean USU Extension and Statewide Campus are merging?

A: USU Extension and Statewide Campus are merging in regards to strategic alignment, overall goals and service to Utah communities. Merger in other regards (i,e. fiscally, physical locations, etc) has not been determined at this time.

Q: Who are the stakeholders in this redesign process?

A: USU Stakeholders (academic and extension faculty, staff, students); Community Stakeholders (community leaders, locally elected officials, donors, business and industry partners, K12 Educators, lifelong learners); Government Stakeholders (legislators, state and federal agencies, funders)

Q: How can I provide input to the process? 

A: Your input is welcome! The USU Statewide Redesign Survey is now live here. We want to hear from you!

Q: How will this process be coordinated across campuses to ensure statewide voices are heard?

A: Data and input will be gathered from all stakeholders through the discovery and design phases (surveys, interviews, listenting sessions, focus groups, etc.). Feedback will also be solicited and integrated into the action plan and strategic directions. 

Q: Who will make final decisions for the redesign?  Campus leaders or local leaders?

A: The intent of the redesign process is to gather stakeholder voices to inform decision-making.  Once data is gathered, we will develop potential solutions and seek statewide feedback. Final design recommendations will be shared with campus leadership, including the President and Provost, for final decision making.

Q: How will the redesign impact the finances of Extension and Statewide?

A:  There are inherent differences between Extension and Statewide Campus funding (both intent and requirements).  While maintaining the distinction, we will also seek greater collaboration between the two entities that serve the people of Utah. 

Q: How will this impact my job?

A: There is not yet an answer to this question. The redesign process will produce recommendations that improve student, staff and faculty experience while modernizing operations and improving community and economic impact across Utah.

Q: In what ways will this process improve outcomes in Utah and address my workforce development needs?

A: This redesign focuses on aligning educational programs with Utah’s workforce demands. By partnering with businesses, we’ll co-develop training programs and credentials that prepare graduates for high-demand roles, providing a steady pipeline of skilled talent for your industry.

Q: What services and resources will the university provide to support my business?

A: USU will enhance access to research expertise, workforce training, internships, and continuing education programs. Additionally, we’ll leverage statewide Extension offices and campuses to deliver targeted solutions like upskilling, leadership training, and economic development initiatives.

Q: How will this process allow the university to maintain relevance to the needs of the business community going forward?

A: The redesign will establish continuous engagement with business leaders, improving collaboration to adapt programs as industry needs evolve. By building flexible, future-focused systems, USU will remain a responsive and innovative partner for Utah’s business community.

Q: Why does USU think they know what is best for my community? 

A: We don’t, we continue to seek to understand the communities we live and serve in. We are gathering information from community needs assessments, listening sessions and involvement in community events and boards and continue to collect feedback from a variety of stakeholders. 

Q: Will USU still have personal community values? How do you know what the general community members want/need?  

A: USU seeks to be a collaborative community partner, as our faculty and staff continue to live in the community and seek understanding.

Q: How many students are at Statewide Campuses? 

A: 7,345 

Q: How will this improve the student experience? Does the team understand that my students are different and have other needs?

A: We recognize that USU can be more responsive to the variety of student types, experiences and needs. This process will continue to seek to better understand what USU can do to improve the student experience. 

Q: Will this redesign change how programs are delivered throughout the State?

A: This design process will help us evaluate the current delivery methods and determine if changes are needed to improve how programs are delivered across the state. Our goal is to ensure that programs remain accessible and effective in meeting the needs of all communities.

Q: What does this mean for the availability of degree programs in my community?

A: This design process will allow us to evaluate degree program options and determine how they can best meet the needs of your community.

Q: What does this mean for the availability of community support services and educational resources that are offered through USU extension and statewide campuses?

A: This design process will help us assess and determine how community support services and educational resources offered through USU Extension and statewide campuses can best serve your community.

Q: In what ways will a redesign of USU Statewide and Extension improve things for community members?

A: The redesign of USU Statewide and Extension aims to enhance accessibility, tailor programs to better meet local needs, and strengthen community partnerships. By focusing on efficiency and responsiveness, the redesign will ensure that community members have improved access to relevant educational resources, support services, and opportunities that align with their unique priorities.