Minority students, students and faculty often feel marginal, conspicuous, and isolated from the mainstream of the institution. At the same time majority students and faculty members are often unaware of the experiences of minorities on campus. This difference in perception is significant. Majority students, faculty, and administrators do not see the environment in the same way as minority individuals. The evidence of an indifferent campus environment may be clear or a matter of nuance.
Strategies Improving the campus climate is everyone s responsibility.
The climate sets the tone and pace for efforts to recruit and retain minority students, faculty, and students. Everyone on campus is a participant in the effort. Recognize climate as an issue. Recognize that the issue belongs to everyone on campus , requiring leadership from the President and board as well as commitment and leadership through the campus. Training programs for administrators, faculty, staff, and security personnel, and students can help sensitize people of all races to the feelings and perceptions of others.