SPARTANBURG, S.C. — USC Upstate Athletics has announced the launch of Elevate Upstate, a comprehensive five-year strategic plan designed to guide the department through 2030 and beyond. The initiative aligns with the University’s Greater 2030 strategic plan and reflects the department’s commitment to excellence in academics, athletics, and community engagement.

“Elevate Upstate is more than a strategic plan; it is the foundation for our department’s continued growth and a vital component of the University’s broader Greater 2030 initiative,” said Matt Martin, Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics. “It will serve as both a compass and a catalyst for our efforts over the next five years. USC Upstate is a great place to be for students, student-athletes, coaches and staff. We have an elite alignment between our campus administration and athletics department, which will enable us to go further and faster to reach our goals.”

Elevate Upstate is built on five core values: Service, Accessibility, Excellence, Collaboration, and Integrity. These values shape the department’s mission to deliver a transformative and holistic student-athlete experience, preparing the next generation of leaders to succeed in academics, athletics, and life beyond competition.

“Spartan Athletics continues to raise the bar — not only through recent championship victories, but through a shared commitment to excellence that extends well beyond competition,” said Dr. Bennie L. Harris, Chancellor of USC Upstate. “Together with our coaches, student-athletes, and the greater USC Upstate community, we are building an environment where every success strengthens both our university and our region. Elevate Upstate reflects that spirit — one of unity, growth, and pride in all we achieve as Spartans.”

The strategic plan is also anchored by five key pillars. The first, Academic Success & Career Development, emphasizes USC Upstate’s commitment to exceeding NCAA Division I academic standards while also leading the industry in post-graduate placement and career success. Through this pillar, the University aims to provide student-athletes with a holistic experience that develops world-class, career-ready professionals.

The second pillar, Student-Athlete Experience, focuses on strengthening the student-athlete experience through major facility enhancements and support services. Planned investments include a new Student-Athlete Academic Success Center, a Track & Field Complex, a Convocation Center and Basketball/Volleyball Arena, and a Baseball/Softball Team Complex, along with upgrades to existing facilities such as the GB Hodge Center, Sport Performance Center, University County Soccer Stadium, and Golf Team Facility. These efforts, paired with advanced health, wellness, and performance resources, will establish USC Upstate as the premier destination in the Big South for student-athletes.

Competitive Excellence, the third pillar, is centered on building a championship culture. This means providing the resources and environment necessary to consistently compete for Big South titles and NCAA postseason opportunities, while upholding values of integrity, discipline, and resilience both on and off the field.

The fourth pillar, Resource Development & Financial Management, underscores the importance of financial excellence. Through sustainable revenue growth, innovative partnerships, and transparent budget management, USC Upstate will expand its capacity to pursue athletic aspirations at the highest levels. Collaboration with key stakeholders will be central to ensuring long-term success and responsible stewardship of resources.

Finally, Brand Engagement & Collaboration looks ahead to strengthening the Spartan brand and building deeper connections across the University, Spartanburg, and the greater Upstate region. This pillar emphasizes expanding digital and social media engagement, enhancing alumni and fan experiences, and fostering meaningful community partnerships. It also reinforces USC Upstate’s role as a leader in service and campus collaboration, creating pride and spirit that extend far beyond the playing fields.

Overall, Elevate Upstate follows one of the most successful academic and athletic years in USC Upstate’s Division I history. Spartan teams captured four conference championships in women’s soccer, men’s golf, baseball, and softball, while student-athletes excelled academically across all programs.

USC Upstate is coming off its best-ever finish in the George F. “Buddy” Sasser Cup Trophy standings, placing third overall and marking a fifth-straight top-five finish—the strongest stretch since joining Division I.

“Our success goes far beyond the trophies,” Martin added. “We are seeing consistent growth in the classroom, in competition, and in how our department represents the University and Spartanburg. Elevate Upstate ensures that momentum will continue to grow.”

Please CLICK HERE to view Elevate Upstate.