University of Minnesota, Morris
PA-5: Assessing Diversity and Equity

We assess diversity and equity information on campus in several ways. We collect student experience data yearly. Our last NSSE survey was 2014. 1) We use institutional student experience survey information and NSSE data to examine how diverse student groups are performing at Morris, and to learn about participation and satisfaction of these groups, as well as identify areas for improvement. 2) Students living on campus (95% of first year students and half of all students) complete an annual educational benchmarking study assessing students experience with residential life. Questions assessing the equity and diversity climate ask student a series of questions rate "to what extent do your fellow residents respect people of differing genders" as well as sexual orientation, races/ethnicities, religious beliefs, and political views. 2) The Office of Equity, Diversity, and Intercultural Programs engages with large numbers of students from under-represented student populations and receives feedback from them. 3) Focus groups and listening sessions have been used to gather feedback about attitudes and campus culture for diversity and equity. 4) Campus leaders regularly review retention and graduation data for diverse student populations. We send out a Residential Life benchmarking survey that goes out to first year students and half of the student body.

As described above for students. Based on campus climate assessment work we now have gender-inclusive housing and we are working on a map of gender-neutral restrooms to link to our QIC website.

Each year, including 2014, the University of Minnesota administers an Employee Engagement (E2) survey. The survey reaches all faculty and staff at Morris. The results allow campus groups to assess their unit's climate towards equity and diversity. Specifically, the following question is asked: "Overall, my department demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion." The results from the survey are shared with all campus staff and faculty. Typically, our Chancellor then provides an email to campus describing future directions based on the survey results. Most recently, improvement has focused on raising faculty salaries.