Ball State’s new strategic plan calls for embracing risk

MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) – The new Ball State University president Paul Ferguson says while the school is healthy, strong and robust, it’s time to move to the next level.

The Star Press reports Paul Ferguson said during his state of the university address Friday that the university has a refocused strategic plan that will embrace risk. Ferguson says he decided after consulting with faculty, trustees, students and others, that Ball State’s vision is too generic.

Ferguson plans to push for a 20-percent increase in graduate student enrollment and a 35-percent increase in fully online student enrollment.

With declining state support, enrollment growth is one way to increase revenue.

Ferguson also will back plans to increase research funding.