Lifelong Learning. Lifelong Impact.
The Illinois Extension Strategic Plan

Illinois Extension engaged in a strategic planning process throughout 2024 that created opportunities for many voices to contribute their own vision for Illinois Extension’s future. We are confident that this process has synthesized the ideas of our entire community to create a compelling and forward-thinking strategic plan.

Vision

University of Illinois Extension will be a leading force in fostering a legacy of sustainable development, lifelong learning, and community resilience regarding environment, food and agriculture, health, community, and economy via technology and discovery, partnerships, and workforce excellence. 

We will leverage innovative research, cutting-edge technology, and collaborative partnerships to build a future where every community member is equipped to thrive in an evolving world.

Our commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and transformative education will be the catalyst for positive societal change.

Mission

Our mission is our broad and enduring purpose:

University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state’s land grant institution.

Values

As Extension professionals, we are committed to the following values: 

  • Collaboration: We foster equitable and accountable relationships across the state to provide programs that meet each community’s diverse needs.
  • Credibility: We act with integrity and build trust by using evidence-based research, following through on our commitments, and supporting our stakeholders to effectively face challenges through tested solutions and new innovations.
  • Inclusivity: We acknowledge and respect the similarities, differences, and contributions of all people and communities in identifying new ideas and approaches to our work. Our success is dependent on valuing, engaging, and including everyone in creating a culture of belonging.
  • Learning: We deliver evidence-based knowledge through teaching, collaboration, and partnerships that provide those we serve with varied opportunities for growth, well-being, and resiliency. 

Strategic Priorities

We will focus our efforts on strategic priorities connected to our vision:

  • Community: Support strong and resilient youth, families, and communities​.
  • Economy: Grow a prosperous economy through lifelong learning and development.
  • Environment: Sustain and restore natural resources in home and public spaces​.
  • Food and Agriculture: Maintain a safe and accessible food, fibers, and biofuel supply.
  • Health: Maximize health equity and access and support health promotion.
  • Partnerships: Create and nurture strategic partnerships and share statewide resources to advance our mission and vision.
  • Technology and Discovery: Integrate research, technology, and engagement to close opportunity gaps and build capacity.
  • Workforce Excellence: Develop Illinois Extension staff and teams to advance collaborative impact and strengthen a culture of inclusiveness and belonging.

Signature Initiatives

Eight new signature initiatives, which correspond to the eight priorities, mark a transformative step forward for Illinois Extension, igniting the flames of change across our organization. These initiatives, crafted with precision and foresight, promise to revolutionize our approach, empower our communities, and shape the future of Extension services in Illinois. While these initiatives are groundbreaking, they are just the beginning—a testament to our commitment to innovation and progress.

Signature Initiative for Community: Enriching civic engagement, volunteerism, and leadership training to support strong and resilient youth, families, and communities.  

Signature Initiative for Economy: Fostering a resilient and future-ready workforce through delivering educational programs and promoting lifelong learning.  

Signature Initiative for Environment: Bolstering climate-smart programming through education and outreach for a resilient future.  

Signature Initiative for Food and Agriculture: Catalyzing decision-making associated with a safe, culturally responsive, and sustainable food, fibers, and biofuels system.  

Signature Initiative for Health: Advancing health equity and promotion and healthcare access through education, partnerships, and policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) change.

Signature Initiative for Partnerships: Enhancing our connections and impact through stewardship of existing relationships and cultivation of new collaborations.  

Signature Initiative for Technology and Discovery: Advancing digital accessibility, equity, and literacy through education and training among Illinois audiences. 

Signature Initiative for Workforce Excellence: Equipping and empowering Illinois Extension’s workforce with skills and resources to achieve Extension’s mission.  

These priorities are addressed through our six program areas:

  • 4-H Youth Development
  • Agriculture and Agribusiness
  • Community and Economic Development
  • Family and Consumer Sciences
  • Integrated Health Disparities
  • Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy

Be involved with each step.