Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration Policy

AAUP recognizes the importance of effective communication and collaboration with its stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, community partners, and governing bodies. This policy outlines the University’s commitment to fostering meaningful and transparent engagement with stakeholders to build strong relationships, facilitate shared decision-making, and enhance the overall university experience. By actively involving its stakeholders, AAUP aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment that reflects their perspectives, values their contributions, and aligns with our institutional goals.

AAUP is dedicated to the following principles and standards for stakeholder engagement and collaboration:

1. Stakeholder Identification and Analysis:
   • AAUP identifies and analyzes the diverse stakeholders who have a vested interest in the university's operations, programs, and services.
   • AAUP recognizes the unique needs, expectations, and perspectives of different stakeholder groups, considering their input in decision-making processes.
      
2. Transparent and Timely Communication:
   • AAUP maintains open lines of communication with stakeholders, providing them with timely and accurate information about university initiatives, decisions, and developments.
   • AAUP employs a variety of communication channels and platforms to ensure accessibility and reach a wide range of stakeholders.
      
3. Two-Way Communication:
   • AAUP actively seeks input, feedback, and suggestions from stakeholders through surveys, focus groups, large-hall meetings, advisory committees, and other forums.
   • AAUP listens attentively to stakeholder concerns, addresses their inquiries and suggestions, and provides opportunities for dialogue and constructive engagement.
      
4. Collaboration and Partnership:
   • AAUP promotes collaboration and partnership opportunities with stakeholders, fostering mutually beneficial relationships that advance our institutional mission, programs, and initiatives.
   • AAUP engages stakeholders in co-creation processes, involving them in decision-making, planning, and the implementation of initiatives.
      
5. Ethical and Respectful Engagement:
   • AAUP engages with stakeholders in an ethical, respectful, and inclusive manner, valuing diversity of thought, promoting dialogue, and considering different perspectives.
   • AAUP ensures that stakeholders are treated fairly, their privacy is protected, and their contributions are acknowledged and valued.
      
6. Feedback and Action:
   • AAUP uses stakeholder feedback and input to inform decision-making, policy development, and continuous improvement efforts across all areas of the university.
   • AAUP communicates actions taken in response to stakeholder feedback, demonstrating transparency and accountability.
      
7. Stakeholder Recognition and Appreciation:
   • AAUP recognizes and appreciates the contributions of stakeholders to the university community through acknowledgment, awards, and other forms of recognition.
   • AAUP provides opportunities for stakeholders to engage with and contribute to the university's vision, events, and initiatives.​
      

To ensure the successful implementation of this Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration Policy, AAUP will:

1. Designate responsible individuals or offices to oversee the implementation, communication, and monitoring of this policy.
    
2. Develop and disseminate guidelines, procedures, and resources that facilitate effective stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
    
3. Provide training and support to faculty, staff, and administrators on effective communication and stakeholder engagement strategies.
    
4. Establish mechanisms for gathering and analyzing stakeholder feedback, ensuring that it informs decision-making processes and improvement efforts.
    
5. Regularly assess and evaluate the effectiveness of stakeholder engagement initiatives, making necessary adjustments to improve outcomes.
    

The following measures (indicators) can be used to assess the utilization of this policy:

1. Stakeholder Participation: Number of stakeholder groups actively engaged in collaborative initiatives or events.
    
2. Partnership Growth: Number of new partnerships established with external organizations or stakeholders.
    
3. Collaborative Projects: Number of joint projects or initiatives completed with external partners.
    
4. Stakeholder Satisfaction: Survey results measuring stakeholders' satisfaction with the level of engagement and collaboration.
    
5. Community Impact: Measurement of the positive impact or benefits resulting from collaborative efforts.
    

VP for Planning, Development, and Quality

University Community