Central Penn College’s 2020 – 2024 Strategic Plan has been hailed as one of the most forthright and transformative in the institution’s history, with more than 90 percent of its strategic goals and objectives successfully achieved.
The plan, developed by Fedor & Company (formerly Bullmoose Works), through six months of intensive stakeholder interviews, research, and analysis, set a new standard for transparency in the institution’s higher education planning. Using Blue Ocean Strategy and Appreciative Inquiry frameworks, college leaders sought input from faculty, staff, students, alumni, board members, and community partners to shape a bold new direction for the college.
“From the outset, we committed to an open process that would acknowledge both Central Penn’s strengths and its challenges,” said Michael Fedor, former Vice President of Advancement & Strategic Initiatives at the College. “By reckoning honestly with its past, we created space to imagine a stronger future for the 140-year-old institution.”
That candor paid off. Observers praised the plan as “one of the most honest and forthright self-assessments ever written into a strategic plan.” Rather than shy away from hard truths, the document identified key areas where the institution needed to adapt and invest. This clear-eyed approach empowered the Central Penn community to move forward with unity and urgency.
A Process Rooted in Collaboration
The planning process engaged stakeholders across every corner of campus. More than 60 interviews and facilitated sessions invited diverse voices to shape the college’s future, guided by appreciative inquiry’s focus on what works and Blue Ocean Strategy’s emphasis on creating new opportunities rather than competing in crowded spaces.
Transformative Outcomes
The results speak volumes:
- Academic Growth: New programs in high-demand fields like healthcare and professional studies attracted new enrollment and strengthened workforce partnerships during and immediately after the global pandemic.
- Student Success: Expanded support services improved retention and graduation rates.
- Athletic Expansion: Securing permanent facilities for baseball, soccer, and other sports propelled Central Penn’s athletic teams to several consecutive divisional championships and national playoff appearances.
- Community Partnerships: Innovative collaborations with major employers in healthcare and business positioned the college as a vital partner in workforce development.
- Financial Stability: Strategic investments and bold new fundraising in partnership with the Central Penn College Education Foundation allowed for new investments to provide opportunities for CPC to survive at a time when closures and mergers continue to rock the higher education landscape.
By the end of the plan cycle, Central Penn had achieved over 90 percent of its stated goals and objectives — a level of execution rarely seen in higher education strategic planning.
A Bold Path Forward
What set this plan apart was not just its success, but its willingness to confront the past while daring to imagine a new future. The combination of rigorous self-assessment and community-driven innovation has positioned Central Penn as a model for other small colleges navigating a rapidly changing higher education landscape.
“Central Penn has proven that honesty, creativity, and collaboration are the foundation for bold progress,” said Micahel Fedor. “This plan didn’t just outline strategies — it changed the culture.”
Strategic Planning Services
Fedor & Company is ready to be your partner in devising a bold, honest, and creative strategic plan to drive the next year or next several years of organizational transformation. Visit the contact page to learn more about hiring us to help you.