System Optimization Working Group

The University’s foundation is built on the strength of its system of campuses. Crookton, Duluth, Morris, Rochester, Minneapolis and St. Paul all play a unique role in advancing the University’s powerful mission of research, education and outreach.

There is renewed interest in how U of M can be greater than the sum of its parts, and so in November 2024, President Rebecca Cunningham charged an advisory task force with identifying ways in which the University can operate more effectively as a system of campuses.

As the University strives to enhance collaboration, efficiency and innovation, U of M is working to develop a unified approach and an agreed-upon vision that leverages its collective strengths for the benefit of the entire system. To support this work, the task force will:

  • Benchmark other systems, and analyze frameworks and best practices
  • Assess current U of M practices, including:
    • Identify areas of current systemness success
    • Identify areas of opportunity or improvement
  • Develop a list of transformational ideas to optimize systemness across the University, with a focus on creating synergies between campuses
  • Develop a proposed framework for implementation

The task force began meeting in November 2024, with the goal of providing a final report to President Cunningham June 2025.

Working Group Members

  • Lori Carrell, Chancellor, Rochester campus, co-chair
  • Mary Holz-Clause, Chancellor, Crookston campus, co-chair
  • Raj Singh, Vice Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Education, Twin Cities campus, co-chair
  • Janelle Broesch, Assistant Vice President and Assistant Chief Operating Officer, Office of the Executive Vice President for Finance and Operations
  • Janet Ericksen, Chancellor, Morris campus
  • Scott Lanyon, Vice Provost and Dean for Graduate Education
  • Charles Nies, Chancellor, Duluth campus
  • Calvin Phillips, Vice President for Student Affairs
  • Shashank Priya, Vice President for Research and Innovation