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.
Strategic Priorities
Our 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.
University of Illinois Extension
As part of the land-grant system, University of Illinois was established not only to provide world-class education and pioneer research and discovery, but to put learning and discovery into practice, to benefit the health and well-being of residents and communities in every part of Illinois. Extension is the university’s statewide network of educators, faculty experts, and staff dedicated to that mission.
Communities are directly served by Extension staff in 27 multi-county units located throughout Illinois. Extension educators in local offices and specialists located on University of Illinois' Urbana-Champaign campus develop and deliver in-depth programming locally, in regional venues, and through distance-learning technologies.
As part of the nationwide Cooperative Extension System, Illinois Extension is able to draw on research-based expertise from land-grant universities all across the country. Volunteers who serve on local advisory councils provide direction for Illinois Extension programming, ensuring that programs continue to meet critical needs.
Illinois Extension is based in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences and works with all colleges and units of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.