University of California San Francisco
School of Dentistry True North
Our strategic framework for excellence, growth, and impact
Advancing the School of Dentistry through the 21st century
UCSF School of Dentistry, along with UCSF Health and the wider UCSF campus, has adopted True North as the compass that guides our school from our present condition to where we aspire to be.
Our mission, vision, values and pillars, or strategic priorities, collectively define our True North. The school has adopted six pillars—Empowered People, Operational Strength, Innovation and Discovery, Education, Exceptional Care, and Community Engagement—to inform and guide our work.
True North pillars
Our pillars form the foundation of the True North pyramid. They encompass strategic areas of focus within which work will happen to move the school forward.
Empowered People and Leadership
Create a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment
Operational Strength
Optimize resources, processes, and partnerships
Innovation and Discovery
Push the boundaries of knowledge
Education
Educate and prepare the biomedical and health care workforce for the future
Exceptional Care
Continuously improve health and patient care
Community Engagement
Promote economic, social, and health equity
Our journey continues
As the UCSF School of Dentistry continues its journey through the 21st century, we will continue to use True North as our guide.
Additional projects are planned for 2026 and beyond and we will update our progress here.