USU Leadership Holds Strategic Offsite to Align with Department of War Priorities

President Dr. Jonathan Woodson urged University leaders to embrace urgency and innovation during a day-long strategy session focused on artificial intelligence and operational readiness.

A wide-angle photograph of senior leaders from the Uniformed Services University (USU) seated around a large U-shaped table configuration during a strategic offsite meeting. A presentation slide titled "Pre and Post Crash Care Program" is projected on a screen in the background, while participants in both military uniforms and professional civilian attire engage in discussions with laptops and notebooks open.

Senior leaders from the Uniformed Services University convene for a strategy refresh offsite on Feb. 11, 2026,

to discuss institutional priorities, including medical innovation and operational readiness. (Photo credit: Sonita

Edwards)

February 13, 2026 by Sharon Holland

Senior leaders from the Uniformed Services University (USU) convened for an all-day strategy refresh offsite Feb. 11, 2026, to review institutional priorities and align on the University’s strategic direction. The session provided an opportunity for leadership to assess current initiatives, identify emerging challenges and opportunities, and ensure continued alignment with the needs of the Military Health System and Department of War (DoW).

Throughout the day, participants engaged in collaborative discussions focused on strengthening USU’s mission in education, research, and operational readiness, and facilities and IT infrastructure improvements.

Other topics discussed included the use of artificial intelligence, a DoW imperative.

“We need to think differently, act differently, and move with a sense of urgency,” said USU President Dr. Jonathan Woodson.

In summarizing the day’s discussions, Woodson told attendees that “USU has an amazing portfolio of capabilities. We need to get energized by the fact the world is going to be challenged, and it’s not going to change. We can work through these challenges and emerge on other side. We are in charge of our own destiny.”