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2026 Strategic Plan Development

CEN is launching the development of our next five-year Strategic Plan, and we’re inviting all members to take part in shaping the network’s future. Your insights, priorities, and regional perspectives are essential to ensuring our strategy reflects the needs of the entire community we serve.

We’re hosting a series of regional in-person workshops from January through March 2026, designed to gather input, explore opportunities, and collaborate on a shared path forward. This process is intentionally thoughtful, we won’t rush it, and each session may vary based on member feedback and regional needs.

Join a Regional Strategic Planning Workshop!

These sessions are open to all CEN members. Space is limited, so we encourage early registration for your preferred location.

Draft Workshop Schedule (Jan–Mar 2026)

  • January 13, 2026 – Wilton Public Schools

  • January 27, 2026 – Norwich Public Schools (Kelly Middle School)

  • February 12, 2026 – EdAdvance, Litchfield

  • February 26, 2026 – Middletown Emergency Management & Training Facility (Mile Lane)

  • March 17, 2026 – Eastern Connecticut State University (ECSU)

    Each session will include:

    • Overview of CEN’s mission and current strategic priorities

    • Interactive SWOT input exercise

    • Small-group discussion focused on needs, challenges, and future opportunities

    • Open dialogue on member priorities for the next five years

      Prepare for Your Session

      Members can review a short set of materials in advance to ensure discussions are focused and productive. These resources also help teams participate consistently across regions.

      Downloadable Pre-Workshop Toolkit

      • 2026 Planning Summary: What we hope to achieve and how your input informs decisions

      • SWOT Exercise Overview: What to consider before the session

      • Draft Agenda: High-level flow of each workshop

      • Reference: 2021–2026 Strategic Plan: See our progress, goals, and outcomes to date

      Our Commitment to a Member-Driven Process

      Developing a strategic plan is a collaborative journey. We expect the process, and even the pacing, to evolve based on what we learn along the way. Your voice is critical, and this multi-month, region-based approach ensures we hear from a broad and diverse group of members.

      Together, we’ll build a thoughtful, actionable, and forward-looking 2026–2031 Strategic Plan that reflects the needs of Connecticut’s research and education community.