Challenge 2: Creating a Welcoming Campus Climate

The University wide cultural audit and the Job satisfaction survey have provided information about the personal experiences of members of the campus community that will be utilized to guide planning. We will use these personal experiences and the experiences of others to develop and promote an environment that is inclusive (opinions, activities, access,) genuine, supportive, safe, respectful, provides individualized service and advocates openness and inquiry

Targeted Areas for Improvement Include:

• Institute systematic climate improvement initiatives and assessment processes at all levels and locations.
• Develop a structured process for identifying climate issues and developing unit-wide approaches for proactively addressing climate concerns.
• Increase the visibility of resources for underrepresented groups (e.g., returning adult students, disabled persons, international students, members of the GLBT community).
• Encourage awareness training for all faculty and staff.
• Include diversity as a criterion in search processes, etc.

Possible goals include:

• Increase services for international students (coping mechanisms & survival skills).
• Improve the physical environment on campus (posters & artwork)
• Assist the adult learner with study skills, daycare for moms, support groups
• Alumnus mentors; adopt a buddy system, holiday planning for students with a host.