Lerner College Announces Strategic Plan for Transformative Excellence

Cover art of Lerner College Strategic Plan three students walking across UD's campus.

Oliver Yao, dean of the Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics at the University of Delaware, has announced the college’s strategic plan, Transformative Excellence, to guide its efforts through 2030. This framework aims to enhance business and economics education, advance research and increase Lerner’s societal impact.

“At Lerner, we cultivate intellectually curious and globally minded leaders through our commitment to Transformative Excellence—our framework for thriving in a dynamic world,” said Yao.

Developed with input from faculty, staff, students, alumni, and industry partners, the plan reflects Lerner’s mission to provide impactful scholarship and experiential learning that prepare students to be innovative, globally minded leaders. It also emphasizes adapting to emerging technologies and shaping the future of business education.

The plan is built on three foundational pillars—Distinctive Lerner Education, Pioneering Scholarship, and Operational Excellence—and three emerging frontiers: AI Transformation and Technology, Innovation and Societal Change, and Leadership and Organizations. These priorities position Lerner to lead in an evolving business landscape.

To track progress, the college has established strategic initiatives as key benchmarks for growth. Through academic excellence and real-world experience, Lerner remains committed to preparing students for success in a dynamic business environment.

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