YHC Young Harris College Launches Bold Strategic Plan
Enchanted Horizons A Vision for Academic Excellence, Student Success, and Community Engagement
Young Harris, GA (12/09/2025) — Young Harris College recently announced the launch of its 2026-2028 Strategic Plan, Enchanted Horizons: A Bold Pivot Toward a Brighter Future. This transformative roadmap positions the College to thrive in a rapidly changing higher education landscape while reaffirming its commitment to liberal arts excellence, student resilience, and community engagement.
"Enchanted Horizons represents a bold step forward," said John Wells, president of Young Harris College. "It is a focused, intentional plan that leverages our unique Appalachian setting, strengthens academic programs, and enhances the student experience-all while ensuring financial sustainability."
Key Strategic Focus Areas Include:
Strengthening Academic Excellence: Launching the Professional Readiness & Experiential Programs (PREP), a flagship initiative integrating career readiness, leadership development, and financial literacy with the liberal arts tradition. Expanding graduate programs, micro credentials, and interdisciplinary offerings to meet evolving workforce needs.
Leveraging Our Unique Location and Heritage: Introducing TRAILS, a signature place-based learning program rooted in Appalachian culture and outdoor education, alongside expanded service learning and community partnerships.
Enhancing Student Experience: Elevating high-impact practices such as study abroad, leadership opportunities, and holistic engagement to foster belonging and boost retention.
Improving Financial Sustainability: Implementing strategic cost management, revenue optimization, and launching a $50+ million comprehensive campaign to support innovation and growth.
The plan was developed through a collaborative process involving faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners. It reflects Young Harris College's enduring mission to educate minds, inspire hearts, and empower lives of service and leadership.
"Higher education is at a crossroads," added Wells. "This plan ensures Young Harris College not only adapts but leads-with imagination, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose."
For more information about Enchanted Horizons and Young Harris College's vision for the future, visit yhc.edu/enchanted-horizons/
About Young Harris College
Young Harris College is a private baccalaureate and master's degree-granting institution located in the beautiful mountains of North Georgia. Founded in 1886 and historically affiliated with The United Methodist Church, Young Harris College educates, inspires, and empowers students through an education that purposefully integrates the liberal arts and professional studies. The College has four academic divisions: Fine Arts; Humanities; Mathematics, Science, and Technology; and Professional Studies. Approximately 1,400 students are enrolled in its residential and Early College programs. The College is an active member of the NCAA Division II and remains a fierce competitor in the Conference Carolinas. For more information, visit yhc.edu.
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