BVU will be a known leader in rural education and in transforming rural communities from surviving to thriving. We will invest in market research and engage stakeholders to propel the University to build a shared voice and brand that is not only relevant—but compelling.

BVU will support a culture of risk-taking and innovation through the development — and investment in — our physical footprint and human resource capital. Not only will BVU be a dynamic place to work, but BVU will be a community which values its natural and capital assets to support student success.

BVU will create a pathway to success which will provide current and future students with exceptional experiences to make them life and work ready. The University will make it a priority to invest in high-impact practices, align curricular and co-curricular priorities, and create seamless engagements and practices for a transformational undergraduate experience which will increase enrollment and retention.

BVU’s founding men and women were entrepreneurs who had a cultural and academic vision. Dr. William H. Cumberland wrote, “The history of Buena Vista College reveals a determined effort to survive in spite of harsh economic times, wars, and often a churchly indifference to its success and growth.” Despite our perseverance, despite our past success, we cannot be complacent.