Case Study

Bethuane Cookman University

Strengthening and Implementing an HBCU’s Growth Strategy

Bethune-Cookman University (BCU) is a four-year private HBCU in Daytona Beach, Florida. Throughout 2021–2022, BCU engaged Trepwise to support the Dean of the College of Business and Entrepreneurship (CBE) in reimagining and articulating a new vision and strategy for the College to advance student outcomes. Trepwise provided research and strategic communications to effectively communicate the Dean’s vision to the BCU Board of Trustees and build a compelling case for transformation. Following the successful reception of the CBE materials, BCU engaged Trepwise to develop similar materials for the entire university, articulating a reimagined long-term vision, priorities, and path for transformation.

Product:

Organizational Planning

Sector:

Non-Profit

Solution

To develop these materials, we facilitated a progressive series of working sessions with the President involving brainstorming and ideation, refinement, and strategic planning, bolstering all decision-making with secondary research. As a result, we delivered (1) pitch decks for the University to use in positioning itself for major opportunities, (2) a reporting structure to communicate the status of the University and its initiatives to the Board of Trustees on a monthly and quarterly basis, and (3) an overhauled BCU fundraising approach.

Results

As a result, B-CU leadership was able to confidently and persuasively communicate a sound strategy, building buy-in and clarity across audiences, including the Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, alumni, external partners, and potential funders.