“To make really effective use of this data is to have a lot of discussions throughout the campus,” said Anneke Lisberg, associate biology professor and assistant chancellor for inclusivity & belonging.
The second discussion of the campus climate survey results, led by Lisberg, brought up concerns in student mental health and peer to peer experiences, specifically in student groups such as LGBTQ+, students with disabilities and racial or ethnic minorities.
“There were multiple groups of students that were consistently having statistically less positive experiences and responses than other students,” Lisberg said.
These groups of students include LGBTQ+, students with disabilities, mental illness, of racial or ethnic minorities and non-religious students.
However, the survey results also showed overall positive results in 18 out of 24 categories, such as engagement and inclusion. The data, compared to two other Wisconsin institutions of similar scale, also showed more positive responses.
The majority of responses also expressed support to diversity and inclusivity initiatives.
“I think having more engaging diversity events on campus would be helpful,” said senior biology major Libby Nabhan.
“Having something more regular like Boxes and Walls, where students can choose to go would offer more opportunities for people to engage with these initiatives.”
“Regardless of the demographic of students, every group surveyed wanted an inclusive campus,” said Lisberg.
The results from staff were also majority positive in most categories, with a few areas raising concern. Positive responses include work relationships, work life balance, inclusion and representation. Areas with less positive results include salary and pay equity, workload and preparedness for conflict over diversity topics.
The survey was conducted by two independent parties during spring of 2024 and included all students and staff, including non-instructional. The results were then reviewed by the Chancellor’s Committee on Inclusive Excellence and a committee of Whitewater students and staff. Survey questions included those about engagement, inclusion, mental and physical health, diversity attitudes and behaviors, as well as the overall campus environment.
One attendee asked if this survey will be an annual occurrence. Lisberg responded that it comes down to if funding is available for the opportunity for third party surveying. While there is consideration about internal surveys, the validity of the results is not guaranteed.
“Using a third party, you get comparative results and it ensures anonymity,” Lisberg said.
At the State of the University Address on March 18, the results and how the university will make use of the data will also be discussed further.