DFA Strategic Advisory Network (SAN)

2025 Strategic Advisory Network (SAN) Membership

SAN is a cross-functional workgroup supporting DFA's strategic plan where members serve a one-year term with opportunities to extend. Learn more about SAN's objective process.

SAN and Its Objectives

SAN was launched in the fall of 2023 as a cross-functional workgroup that serves as a driving force in our organization's strategic decision-making processes. Its primary objectives are twofold: 

1. Provide Input/Advice: SAN members have the opportunity to offer valuable insights and guidance. Their perspective plays a pivotal role in informing critical strategic decisions that shape DFA’s trajectory. Additionally, they serve as members of short-term workgroups focused on advancing our work in strategic areas for our division, such as DEI, AI, change management, etc.
2. Cascade Information/Communicate: SAN members serve as a vital conduit to aid in seamless communication within DFA. They are instrumental in facilitating the effective dissemination of critical information and strategic initiatives across different levels of our division. 

Transparent Selection Process

SAN members in each department are nominated by DFA cabinet members every year and approved by the CFO and vice chancellor. DFA cabinet members are ex officio SAN members. The nominations and approvals are based on the following selection criteria:

1. Demonstrate Strategic Visioning: Understanding of strategic planning and the ability to envision and evaluate long-term organizational goals.
2. Build Relationships: Proven track record of fostering productive relationships both within and outside the organization to leverage valuable partnerships.
3. Demonstrate Teamwork and Communication: Ability to collaborate harmoniously in a group setting and effectively articulate their ideas.
4. Execute: Ability and readiness to execute assigned tasks, contribute actively to projects, and fulfill their responsibilities associated with their role.

We are also looking for SAN to be representative of our broad and diverse organization, which includes rotating memberships over time. DFA cabinet members choose to rotate some or all department nominees every year to provide opportunities for multiple parties who have the bandwidth in their workload to do so.

Roles, Responsibilities, and Time Commitment

SAN members serve a one-year term with clearly defined roles and responsibilities which are subject to change over time to align with the needs of the division. Membership requires active participation in meetings, offering insightful contributions during strategic planning sessions, and providing valuable feedback to divisional communications.

Members are expected to collaborate closely with their respective cabinet members to align objectives with our organization's strategic priorities. The SAN adheres to a reasonable time commitment, with up to three meetings per year scheduled to accommodate the availability of most members. Additionally, it is expected that they will provide prompt response to emails, surveys, and other communication methods as well as participate in smaller workgroups and power teams, as necessary.