At Southwestern Adventist University, assessment is not limited to academic programs. Every administrative unit plays a crucial role in supporting the University's mission, and each year these units participate in the annual assessment process. This ensures that planning, assessment, and improvement efforts are intentional, transparent, and aligned with the University’s mission and strategic priorities.

Purpose of Administrative Assessment

Administrative assessment helps units:

• Evaluate how effectively they are fulfilling their mission.

• Demonstrate alignment with the broader mission and vision of SWAU.

• Connect day-to-day operations with the University’s strategic initiatives.

• Identify opportunities for growth and improvement.

The Administrative Assessment Process

The cycle of assessment for administrative units includes:

1. Establishing Goals and Outcomes
   Each unit defines clear, mission-driven goals or expected outcomes that describe what success looks like in their area.

2. Identifying Measures and Targets
   Units select meaningful measures—such as service metrics, response times, or student/staff satisfaction—and establish expected performance targets.

3. Reporting and Analyzing Results
   Results are reported in comparison to the targets. These findings help units understand whether they are meeting expectations and where adjustments are needed.

4. Strategic and Budget Alignment
   Assessment results are connected with SWAU’s strategic plan and used to guide budget decisions, ensuring that resources support the University’s mission.

5. Continuous Improvement
   The process is ongoing, with units revising goals, refining measures, and implementing improvements each year.