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This week we are publishing our new strategy - Sussex 2035: Creating Progressive Futures – flourishing, sustainability and progress for the whole world. This article recaps how feedback from students, staff and alumni helped turn the final draft of the strategy into the finished version that will guide us through to 2035.

The Sussex 2035 strategy survey

In May 2024, Vice-Chancellor Professor Sasha Roseneil hosted a strategy-themed Open Forum and introduced staff to the main elements of Sussex 2035. After the event, the first consultation draft of the full strategy was released and our entire 5XÉçÇøÊÓƵ community was invited to provide feedback via an online survey. Over 2050 people took part, sharing their thoughts and suggestions.

What we learned

Survey results showed strong support for the direction of travel:

• Vision statement: 86% said the ten key statements were important or very important to them
• Mission statement: 65% agreed it was distinctive, inspiring and aligned with Sussex’s purpose
• Values: 72% agreed that the five Values continue to reflect what Sussex stands for, with feedback also suggesting the inclusion of our new value, Openness.

Engaging future students

We also tested the strategy with prospective students in local sixth form colleges. Their feedback confirmed that our themes resonate with the next generation of students:

• 70 out of 80 agreed that “creating progressive futures” feels relevant to their world
• Over half said they would research a 5XÉçÇøÊÓƵ’s strategy when choosing where to study
• Inclusivity stood out as especially appealing, sparking interest in visiting the campus

A collective achievement

Across 20 engagement events involving more than 2,700 people, the Sussex community helped to refine and shape Sussex 2035. The final strategy is truly collaborative – informed by your expertise, your commitment, and your passion for Sussex’s future.

Download a copy of Sussex 2035 to read our Vision, Mission and Values in full.