A Statement from President Lillian Schumacher
At its core, Tiffin University exists for one reason: our students.
While that answer is simple, what matters is how we define it.
Serving students means more than delivering degrees or teaching technical skills. It means ensuring that every graduate leaves prepared to contribute—to their employer, their community, and the world around them.
That requires more than knowledge.
Graduates must be able to think critically, solve problems, and work effectively with people who bring different perspectives and experiences. They must be able to apply what they know in environments that are complex, dynamic, and constantly changing.
At Tiffin University, that is the standard.
We are committed to developing graduates who are not only capable in their field, but confident in their ability to lead, adapt, and contribute in meaningful ways.
This is why Celebrating Cultural Uniqueness exists not as an initiative, but as a reflection of what we believe students need to succeed.
Because the true measure of a university is not what it teaches, it is what its graduates are able to do.
“For any organization to be successful, while a well-thought-out strategic plan is essential, it first needs to fully understand its overall organizational purpose as well as have a full appreciation of the critical role that the organizational culture plays in achieving success. One could easily say that purpose and culture precede strategy. At Tiffin University, President Lillian Schumacher clearly understands that important order. One of her first initiatives upon being named President was to develop the Guiding Principles for the organization. This one-page concise document clearly outlines the purpose of the university, both its mission and vision, as well as establishes a set of values that guide the behavior of every associate. The overall alignment that a document of this nature achieves is essential for success. Now, just developing a document is easy, but making sure that its meaning comes to life every day is what makes it worthwhile. Dr. Schumacher and her team reinforce the essence of this document in every interaction, and it forms the shell around which the strategic plan is built. In multiple other organizations, I have seen this approach work to galvanize the energy of an organization, and I have seen it at Tiffin University as well. Over the long-term when one looks back on the leadership tenure and impact of Dr. Schumacher on Tiffin University, I am convinced that the implementation of the Guiding Principles will be one of the major explanations for her and the organization’s success.”
“Your leadership continues to be an inspiration. Nearly every university in the world says they’re developing global citizens. Tiffin University is actually doing it. Through a comprehensive strategy led from the very top, every student, staff member, and faculty are part of this initiative and we’ll all be better for it. I’ve been watching keenly as Tiffin outpaces other institutions in moving cultural intelligence from a point on a strategic plan to a living reality.”
