Much has changed since our last strategic plan, Ideas Can, concluded in 2020. As we look ahead, we are excited to begin shaping a new strategy that reflects our collective priorities and guides the Federation in the years to come. This strategic planning process will be shaped by the voices of our members, partners, and the broader humanities and social sciences community, ensuring that it supports us all in responding to new and emerging challenges and contributing to a strong and sustainable future.
While the Federation’s Board of Directors is responsible for approving the Strategic Plan, we believe that whole community participation is essential to its success. We are committed to engaging our members throughout the consultation phase to ensure we reflect a shared vision for the Federation’s future. By learning more about the priorities and aspirations of our community, we aim to develop a strategy that is both grounded and forward-looking.
We are working with Higher Education Strategy Associates (HESA) to support the Strategic Plan's development. HESA’s team includes highly experienced facilitators with deep knowledge of the higher education sector.
Planning phases
The development process consists of the phases below. Please note that timelines are subject to adjustments throughout the process.
Phase I (February-April 2025): Preliminary research
- Including a scan of the current landscape
Phase II (April-October 2025): Consultations
- April-May 2025: Survey of Federation stakeholders to understand perceptions of changes in humanities and social sciences and the evolving role of the Federation
- June-August 2025: In-person focus group consultations during the annual Congress and virtual focus group consultation throughout the Summer to discuss key strategic aspirations and engagement opportunities
- Fall 2025: Presentation of insights from the consultation phase and collection of feedback
Phase III (November 2025-February 2026): Strategic planning
- End of 2025: Workshops to identify strategic priorities
- Early 2026: Drafting and reviewing of the Strategic Plan