Inspired international learning. Engaged global citizenship. Affordable authentic academia. This is the heart of USAC.
September 2021 marks the 39th anniversary of USAC, and to celebrate our longstanding commitment to study abroad, we updated our vision, mission statement, and core values. As the preeminent global citizenship development program for students, we offer more than 50 inspiring study abroad programs in 26 countries so that students may become engaged citizens of the world.
USAC CEO & President, Alyssa Nota, shared the following letter with USAC staff to announce USAC’s continued important work through our new mission, vision, and values.
Dear USAC community,
As many of you know, this September marks the 39th anniversary of USAC, and there’s no better time to release our organization’s updated vision, mission statement, and core values. Since it has been a while since the first vision and mission were created, here’s a reminder why it’s important to modernize them.
WHAT IS A VISION?
It’s a concrete way to understand the meaning and purpose of our core work. It’s an organization’s guiding light. A vision statement describes the desired long-term results of USAC’s efforts. More than just a goal, a vision is the embodiment of our organizational hopes and dreams; the picture of what has not yet happened, but what we intend the future to be. In a practical, day-to-day sense, it helps define short and long-term goals, as well as guide decisions that are made along the way. So, let me introduce you to USAC’S new vision statement:
Vision: A world where differences are appreciated and respected.
Yes, it’s lofty, but step by step with the work that each of you contributes every day, I know we are well on our way to achieving this.
WHAT IS A MISSION?
A vision isn’t complete without a mission statement. While the vision describes what it would look like if the organizational purpose was achieved, a mission statement is based in the present and is designed to convey why the organization exists. It describes what we stand for and is the roadmap for the vision statement. Here’s our new mission statement:
Mission: Inspire international learning and engaged global citizenship through affordable, culturally authentic academic experiences.
WHAT ARE CORE VALUES?
Core values are the root beliefs that guide organizational and employee behaviors.
Authenticity
Bring a genuine spirit to everything you do and everyone you meet. Be genuine, reliable, and trustworthy. Stay true to our beliefs and values.
Adaptability
As a company that offers the world, we must adjust to its changes. Be flexible and adjust to changing factors.
Collaboration
Across teams, across universities, across borders. Work together towards shared goals.
Dedication
Passion for our students, for our mission, and for our vision. Committed to give the time and energy to the task at hand.
Diversity
Our greatest path to creativity. In thought, in culture, and in people. Think independently, together. Embrace that everyone is unique.
Excellence
Strive for greatness in everything you do. Set the bar. Then set it a bit higher. With everything you do, do your best. Deliver outstanding quality.
Integrity
Be the person your dog thinks you are. Who are you when no one is watching? Reflect ethical standards.
Impact
In our classrooms, in our communities, and in our world. Create a long-lasting impression in the minds and hearts of all.
Vision, mission, values. It all starts here – with us together – the USAC community. Making our mark, one student at a time. Envisioning a world where differences – in every sense — are appreciated and respected. Will you join USAC on this journey? It’s sure to be an exciting, fulfilling one.
Thank you, everyone.
Alyssa
Alyssa Nota, PhD
CEO & President
University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC)