It isn't often that community members have a chance take an active role in shaping the future of their state's university system. For Hawai'i residents, that chance is now.

Last week, the University of Hawai'i launched a series of public meetings focused on its strategic plan for the future. The discussions are not aimed at reinventing the wheel, just updating it. In 2002, members of UH faculty and staff created the UH System Strategic Plan for 2002-2010. Among the goals for the system's 10 campuses are advancing educational effectiveness and student success; a learning, research and service network; and a model local, regional and global university.

Each goal was then followed by an objective, as well as action strategies for success. These are all worthy goals, but much has happened since it was created five years ago.

In fact, in the presentation given at the meetings by Linda Johnsrud, vice president for academic planning and policy for the UH system, a segment is devoted to "What we know now that we didn't in 2002." The facts range from population and geographic disparity to a gap in workforce supply.

"Our UH system strategic plan provides a strong vision to which we can aspire," said UH president David McClain. "But as we move into our second century, we need to take another look at how best to position the university to meet the needs of the state."

Now that the chance is here to make a difference, everyone should do their part. As the state's only public university system, these are issues that will affect not only our children, but our community.