University Launches ADAPT '25 Initiative

In response to the evolving landscape of university operations, Seton Hall University's Division of Finance is proud to announce the launch of the ADAPT '25 Initiative. This comprehensive effort aims to promote efficiency and streamline business operations while assessing and updating various university policies and processes. This initiative is a response to feedback from Open Forums held across the university this spring and recommendations from an internal controls assessment recently completed by Grant Thornton's higher education consulting practice.

The ADAPT '25 Initiative stands for Accountability, Documentation, Access, Planning, Policies and Procedures, and Transparency. This initiative aims to address the inefficiencies in the current systems and procurement processes at the University, which have led to duplicated efforts and delays in conducting business.

"The launch of ADAPT '25 marks a significant step forward for Seton Hall," said Interim Vice President of Finance/CFO Ed Bishof. "Our goal is to create a more efficient and cohesive administrative environment that benefits our entire university community. This initiative will also emphasize end-user accountability and policy compliance, ensuring adherence to regulations and best practices."

To streamline these processes, Seton Hall is partnering with Unimarket, a company specializing in higher education eProcurement and eSourcing solutions, Shorts Travel Management for Athletics travel, and Collegiate Travel Planners for non-athletic University travel. These global providers offer cost-effective solutions that will simplify navigation and enhance the procurement and vendor payment experience for the entire University community.

The initiative will focus on several key areas:

Accountability: Ensuring that everyone takes ownership of their actions and decisions fosters transparency and trust within the university community. Clear documentation, well-defined responsibilities, and regular reporting mechanisms will hold individuals accountable.

Documentation: Proper documentation reduces ambiguity, aids in decision-making, and ensures continuity. Standardized templates, centralized repositories, and training on documentation best practices will be implemented to support this effort.

Access: Equal access to information and tools promotes financial transparency. A unified platform will provide easy access to essential resources, determined by their specific role.

Planning, Policies, and Procedures: Well-defined plans, policies and procedures create consistency and reduce confusion. Thorough planning, regular policy reviews, and streamlined procedures will be part of the initiative.

Transparency: Building trust within the university community requires regular communication, open forums, and sharing progress updates. These measures will enhance transparency and allow stakeholders to understand decisions and processes.

The rollout of ADAPT '25 will occur over the next two fiscal years, allowing for thoughtful planning, gradual implementation, constructive feedback, and continuous improvement.

"By embracing these principles, the University can create a more cohesive and effective administrative environment," added Bishof. "ADAPT '25 is not just about making immediate improvements; it's about ensuring long-term success through thoughtful planning and continuous improvement."

Over the coming months, more updates will be shared about new partnerships, upcoming training, and workshops on the Division of Finance's website.

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