Dear Pacificans,

As part of the commitment toward advancing diversity, equity and inclusion across all facets of the university, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in collaboration with the Office of the Provost, has successfully completed the inaugural Higher Education Data Sharing Consortium (HEDS) Diversity and Equity Campus Climate Survey.

The survey is the first comprehensive university-wide climate survey launched by Pacific that sought responses from faculty, staff and students on all three campuses. It serves as a valuable tool that provides the university with a pulse point on the effectiveness of existing efforts to improve campus culture – particularly around bias and inclusivity. 

The findings of the survey tell us that we are doing well, with overall higher performance than peer institutions nationwide. However, we recognize there is still work to be done to advance our campus culture. Pacificans can access the survey results here.

About the Survey

The launch of the survey was in response to a recommendation from the 2022 WASC special visit report to “use campus climate surveys of staff, students, and faculty to assess the effectiveness of university diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.” The survey was administered by HEDS, an independent organization that provides comparative data from other schools and colleges nationwide. 

Participation numbers in the survey were high, with a total of 1,829 students, faculty, and staff who completed the survey (21.2% response rate) across all three campuses.

In the majority of categories related to satisfaction with the campus climate, Pacific tracks above the national average. Other noteworthy observations include:

• Overall satisfaction with campus climate from faculty, staff and students was high (75% were Generally Satisfied or Very Satisfied in the overall campus climate)
• There remains a need to increase understanding about reporting bias and discrimination among students, faculty and staff.
• Notable areas of improvement include helping our community understand the needs of intersectional audiences and increase trust in reporting processes.

Already in Action

Prior to the results of the survey findings, the university took decisive steps to improve reporting mechanisms for bias and discrimination. Additionally, new educational programs focused on anti-bias education and bias prevention have been introduced, including:

• Mandatory training for all staff and faculty on Title IX reporting “Title IX/Sex-Based Misconduct Policy and Procedures”
• Revised Bias Response Reporting and Protocols
• Hired a new Title IX officer
• Hired a new DEI education and bias prevention director
• Incorporated bias reporting incorporated in all new staff/faculty onboarding experiences
• Released new religious observance guidance
• Launched anti-racism challenge programming
• Introduced the first Common Read project and Presidential Speaker Series
• Introduced bias training for Greek organizations 

Looking Ahead

With the fall term well underway, we are heartened by how steadfastly Pacificans value diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as essential in our efforts to meet students where they are. Every employee, regardless of job or title, plays an essential role in creating a community of care.  

It is imperative that we all continue to build our awareness, knowledge, and skills for teaching, learning and working across differences. In addition to the steps we have taken above, and in response to the results of the campus climate survey, we will continue to offer humanistic education and training opportunities throughout the university, including:

• Launch the Provost Seminar Series focused on anti-bias education for faculty
• Explore developing multi-lingual content
• Pilot intercultural development training

In Summary

We are heartened by the results of the campus climate survey, however we recognize there is still more work to be done.

Each employee across our three campuses plays an essential role in student success and we have progressed greatly to foster a campus climate for inclusive living, learning and workplace environments. 

If the survey results or this letter has sparked an idea, or if you have any questions, please email dei@pacific.edu.

Our mission to become the best student-centric university in the nation is big, and our cause for education and access is worthy.

Sincerely,

Mary Lomax-Ghirarduzzi

Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Professor of Communication

Gretchen Edwalds-Gilbert
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs