2026–2029 Strategic Plan

In 2025, NCHE engaged in a strategic planning process with the staff, Board of Directors, and many members of our community to craft a vision for the next three years. NCHE is grateful for the input of educators, scholars, and supporters from across the country.

Vision

We lead the way toward a society where all history educators belong to a trusted community of practice, and all learners see themselves reflected in the past and present.

Mission

We champion history education and uplift history education professionals.

Values

Learning

Everyone is a learner.

Leadership

Leaders support and uplift.

Service

Teaching is public service.

Community

None of us are alone.

Trust

We nurture reciprocal trust.

Strategic Pillars 2026–2029

Pillar 1

Advancing Excellence in History Education

Strengthen history education nationwide by enhancing teacher preparation, fostering collaborative learning communities, and deepening connections to scholarship so that NCHE is recognized as the national leader in high-quality history teaching and learning.

Objectives:
  • Elevate and promote History’s Habits of Mind as fundamental to NCHE’s programs and pedagogy
  • Continue creating and supporting collaborative learning communities for educators
  • Strengthen teacher training and higher education partnerships
  • Focus research and evaluation efforts on pedagogy and impact
  • Expand access and equity in history education
Pillar 2

Amplifying Voice & Impact

Increase NCHE’s visibility and authority by clarifying our value proposition, establishing a cohesive brand identity, implementing cost-effective communications, and leveraging strong educator networks to position NCHE as a trusted and accessible voice in history education.

Objectives:
  • Clarify and articulate NCHE’s value proposition
  • Develop and maintain a cohesive brand identity
  • Develop and execute a cost-effective marketing and communications strategy
  • Increase NCHE’s digital footprint and public awareness
  • Expand NCHE’s reach through strategic partnerships and educator networks
  • Engage in sector-wide collaborations and coalitions as the voice of history education
  • Equip educators as effective messengers for history education
Pillar 3

Enhancing Organizational Strength

Build and maintain a resilient and high-capacity organization by strengthening governance, refining internal systems and structures, and ensuring NCHE is equipped to effectively represent and elevate the discipline of history education.

Objectives:
  • Strengthen board governance and leadership continuity
  • Strengthen organizational capacity and structure
  • Enhance organizational systems and practices to sustain growth and ensure resilience
  • Pursue strategic partnerships to advance mission and impact
Pillar 4

Building Sustainable Resources for Tomorrow

Lay the foundations for building a more diverse revenue stream and securing the financial resources needed to advance history education and ensure NCHE’s long-term stability and impact.

Objectives:
  • Incrementally increase earned revenue through programs and services
  • Build development infrastructure and capacity
  • Seek to diversify funding sources and reduce reliance on federal grants
  • Develop a culture of philanthropy across the organization

Download NCHE’s 2026-2029 Strategic Plan here.

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