1. What is campus climate?

Dr. Susan Rankin of Rankin & Associates Consulting, which served as the outside consultant for the 2021 URI climate survey, defines campus climate as, “the current attitudes, behaviors, standards and practices of employees and students of an institution.” The climate is often shaped through personal experiences, perceptions, and institutional efforts.

2. Why is a positive climate important?

Dr. Rankin’s research maintains that positive personal experiences with campus climate and positive perceptions of campus climate generally equate to successful outcomes. Example successful outcomes include positive educational experiences and healthy identity development for students, productivity and sense of value for faculty and staff, and overall well-being for all.

3. Why is URI conducting a climate survey?

The idea to conduct a campus climate survey originated from interested students, faculty and staff who believed data from such a survey might be useful in planning for the future and improving the climate at URI.

4. What will be done with data from the results?

Although the committee believes the survey process itself is informative, we have sought and received a commitment from the senior leaders that data will be used to plan for an improved climate at URI.

5. What is the response rate goal?

The target participation in the survey is all students, faculty, and staff at URI. Every response matters and is valuable in providing the most beneficial feedback and results.

Have other questions?

The University of Rhode Island is committed to building a community that embraces equity and diversity and we value your questions and feedback. Visit The Office of Community, Equity, and Diversity to find additional resources or to contact a member of our staff.