8P6 Linking Strategies and Actions with Current Resources and Future Needs

As plans are developed at each level, resource needs are determined and included in budget discussions throughout the fall semester. At the program and department levels, discussions on resource needs are conducted with the administrator in charge of that area. The administrator works with the staff and faculty to further define, eliminate, or revise these resource needs. Final resource needs are discussed and prioritized by the Administrative Team as part of the budget process.

The Administrative Team then makes additional adjustments to budget resource requests, removing or deferring some, while requesting others be included in the proposed budget for the following year. At each step of the process, the resource request and its potential to move the institute toward its strategic goals are discussed. Those requests that do not meet or have less impact on attaining the goals of the institute are either removed or deferred to another year.

STI maintains Capital Equipment and Capital Improvement lists that appropriate STI funds annually and establish multi-year improvement lists for future consideration and budget allocations. Capital projects may be moved forward or deferred according to the needs of the institute and the availability of funds. These lists are reviewed and adjusted annually as part of a rolling budget process.

STI’s allocation of resources demonstrates a responsible strategy for linking mission with current and future viability. Figure 8.1 shows general expenditure categories. In keeping with the mission of educating for employment and emphasis on teaching and learning, a major portion (64%) of STI’s resources are allocated to student learning and support.