UVA Diversity and Inclusion Climate Survey
The University Diversity and Inclusion Climate Survey was conducted by the Center for Survey Research (CSR) with Archie Holmes, Vice Provost for Academic Affairs; Margaret Riley, Professor of Law; Catherine Spear, Associate Vice President for Equal Opportunity & Civil Rights; Rachel Spraker, Compliance Director for Equity and Affirmative Action; and Sarah Schultz-Robinson, Assistant Director for Institutional Assessment & Studies. All undergraduate students, graduate students, staff, and faculty from UVA, including the College at Wise, were included in the sample, except for those in the Medical Center and School of Medicine. While a survey on these topics was already under discussion in relation to the University's strategic efforts to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion, it was also the recommendation of the Dean's Working Group, convened in response to the events of August 11-12, 2017, that a survey of the climate for inclusion and safety be conducted to aid in informing the University on priority areas for institutional transformation.
The survey was conducted between April 19 and June 13, 2018. There were 849 faculty responses, 2,539 staff responses, 1,252 graduate student responses, and 1,824 undergraduate student responses, giving a total sample size of 6,464 respondents out of the 36,621 student/faculty/staff members contacted (a completed survey is defined as one where at least 50% of the questions were answered). For purposes of comparison, nine independent variables— aspects of each respondent’s reported identity—were selected for analysis in this report: University affiliation, racial/ethnic identity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, political orientation, socioeconomic status, ability status, and age.
The report goes on to analyze in detail perceptions of respect, bias and discrimination, instances of microaggressions and harassment, and reasons for leaving UVA based on identity. Since this survey was conducted, UVA has made important commitments related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. In January 2020, the University adopted the Inclusive Excellence framework, a structure for self-study and organizational change. In June 2020, President Ryan convened the Racial Equity Task Force, which presented a set of goals for the university; UVA's Board of Visitors endorsed those goals in September 2020. in September 2020.
For the study's methodology, download the file below.