Priorities:University of Connecticut Priorities

STRATEGY #1: IMPROVE COMMUNICATION CHANNELS ACROSS DEPARTMENTS

The communication on the topic of entrepreneurship and innovation between different departments and schools is spotty and unclear. A straightforward method of communication for planning and advertising events could greatly improve efficiency.

·         Identify key contacts from different departments

·         Set up a meeting to discuss common goals and resources

·         Create a regular medium for representatives from each department to keep in contact

STRATEGY #2: ESTABLISH COMMUNICATION CHANNEL WITH STUDENTS

There is no clear map of entrepreneurs across students, nor a method for students to view all the resources through a single medium. By creating a database and/or cumulative calendar, it would be easier for students to keep updated with opportunities.

·         Reach out to campus leaders to identify all present opportunities

·         Collect opportunities on a calendar to be synced with different resources across campus

·         Advertise events on the calendar so students will learn where to find future opportunities

STRATEGY #3: INTRODUCE A METHOD FOR STUDENTS TO RECIEVE FEEDBACK

There is currently no main channel for students to go through to receive feedback from both their students and faculty members. Feedback is necessary for dictating where improvement is required.

·         Identify campus leaders who would partake in a feedback panel.

·         Identify students who would be interested in hearing other ideas and concerns in regards to entrepreneurship and innovation.

·         Plan reoccurring meetings for students to attend to receive feedback on their ideas.

STRATEGY #4: Make resources available to students easily accessible and usable

Many first-year students are unaware of the many resources available on our campus.  This results in many students not discovering programs that apply to them until they are already upperclassmen.

·         Identify programs of direct I & E value to undergraduate students

·         Condense those resources onto one singular website of forum

·         Effectively advertise this resource so that students feel enabled to pursue the opportunities around them

STRATEGY #5: CONVEY TO STUDENTS THE POWER AND IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL NETWORKING

Various opportunities arise from simply speaking with other students, faculty, and alumni.  Even if your interests lie predominantly in STEM, the social networking component is an inescapable component cruical for success.

·         Create workshops to improve students’ abilities to give elevator pitches and public speaking skills

·         Arrange frequent meetings with faculty involved with I & E programs across campus

·         Encourage students to build a strong resume to convey their value and aspirations to others

Related Links

University of Connecticut

University of Connecticut Strategic Priorities

UConn Entrepreneurship & Innovation Consortium

University Innovation Fellows

Fall 2016

Britney Reynolds

Even Gentile

Fall 2015

Justin Hall