NCU Rams look toward the future, launch new initiatives and strategic planning process.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – This fall has been a busy one for the department of athletics and first-year Director of Athletics Travis Whipple. The Rams have instituted several new initiatives to enhance the student-athlete experience and continue developing passionate champions. This started with a departmental and enrollment review and partnership with Dr. Kurt Patberg from Athletics Staffing and Consultants (ASC). It has continued with an increased focus on branding, identity, and an updated mission statement. The Rams have also committed to a set of core values that are summarized by GRIT or Greatness, Respect, Innovation, and Tradition.

One new initiative around Greatness was a recruiting and retention seminar the department recently conducted for all coaches and staff. Travis Whipple, Director of Athletics, had this to say about the value of Greatness and the importance of this professional development opportunity. "We want to be great in our faith, in the classroom, in the community, and on the field or courts of play. This has to start in the recruiting and retention process as we want to be a campus partner to aid in future growth. I would be remiss if I didn't recognize our enrollment team at NCU for all of their assistance on this project. Also, ASC took an exceptional amount of time to understand who we are and helped us develop key next steps."

The department is also committed to Respect and all Rams have emphasized being involved in campus activities, contributing positively to critical conversations, and making a difference daily. One initiative the department has undertaken this fall is a campus meal delivery program for those unable to make it over to NCU dining facilities. The Rams have delivered several thousand meals during this semester and will continue to find ways to serve the community.

Innovation will be critical to enhancing the student-athlete experience. NCU Athletics has launched several new programs around innovation and resource development. The Blue and Gold Online Auction will make its debut this November on ncurams.com and social media platforms. The Rams Club and Corporate Partnership Campaign are two other new initiatives that are geared towards engagement with the community, alumni, and Rams everywhere.
 
Last but certainly not least #DOWNTOWNU is committed to the value of Tradition. "We would not be here unless those that came before us paved the way. Our department will continue to find ways to honor our tradition and those that have built this program" said Travis Whipple. NCU recently approved an Athletics Hall of Fame that will officially begin taking nominations in January with the first class to be inducted in the Fall of 2021.
 
As part of the planning process, the Rams have completed a full department review with Dr. Kurt Patberg and ASC. The next step will be the creation of a multi-year strategic plan that aligns with the university. The strategic plan will ensure clear goals, metrics, and tactics that will aid in building a premier program of excellence. Dr. Andrew Denton, Executive Vice President, had this to say about the initial review process. "ASC in conjunction with our athletic leadership provided an extremely detailed report that had significant recommendations that provide good direction. There is much more information than I even anticipated when we agreed to partner with Dr. Patberg."