Strategic Action Plan

SLP PROGRAM MISSION

The mission of the program in the School of Speech-Language Pathology is to prepare professional speech-language pathologists to work in a variety of clinical settings serving diverse client populations. The program nurtures culturally-responsive practice, interprofessional collaborations, and adherence to the principles of evidence-based practice through life-long learning.

To support that mission, the Speech-Language Pathology program has established four overarching strategic goals, each with corresponding objectives:

GOAL 1: ENGAGE STUDENTS WITH INNOVATIVE ACADEMIC, CLINICAL, AND RESEARCH METHODS AND TECHNOLOGIES

• Objective 1:    Enhance academic opportunities of students in preparation for clinical experiences.
• Objective 2:    Diversify clinical experiences and improve clinical skills using modern technologies.
• Objective 3:    Expand interprofessional education activities to enhance student academic and clinical experiences.
• Objective 4:    Increase student engagement in research.

Goal 2: EXPAND MARKETING and branding for thE PROGRAMs and clinic

• Objective 1:    Expand the visibility and marketing of clinic services.
• Objective 2:    Promote the educational programs and clinic through expanded social media presence.
• Objective 3:    Advocate for the profession and clinical services within and outside the university.
• Objective 4:    Recruit students through various university- and community-sponsored events

GOAL 3:  INCREASE ALUMNI AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

• Objective 1:    Expand experiential learning opportunities to enhance academic and clinical training.
• Objective 2:    Leverage ODU resources to expand community engagement, alumni outreach, and philanthropic giving
• Objective 3:    Provide professional development activities to professionals in the community.
• Objective 4:    Increase advocacy efforts for individuals with communication disorders and their families.

GOAL 4: IGNITE Research growth

• Objective 1:    Secure external funding resources for clinical, theoretical, and student-funded research.
• Objective 2:    Effectively utilize available spaces for research on campus and in the community.
• Objective 3:    Support faculty research efforts to enhance the quality of the academic and research mission.
• Objective 4:    Foster interprofessional research efforts within ODU and the community.

These four goals and corresponding objectives complement the mission and strategic plans put forth by Old Dominion University and by the ODU Ellmer College of Health Sciences, where rigorous academic programs, innovative research, and community engagement are valued, and infuse innovative experiences and methods as we prepare speech-language pathology professionals. Objectives are identified for each goal to represent the array of academic, clinical, research, and training activities provided within the program. These goals and objectives guide priorities, decision-making, and activities, leading to a set of achievable and measurable strategies to be completed each year.