Campus Climate Vision Statement: To cultivate a vibrant and inclusive campus community that fosters positive change and strengthens connections where every individual feels valued and empowered.

Campus Climate

Wichita State University Campus Climate

Campus climate refers to the overall atmosphere, culture, and environment within an educational institution, shaped by various factors such as policies, procedures, member experiences, history and traditions, demographics, and a sense of belonging. It encompasses the following components:

Policies and Procedures:
    • The set of rules, regulations, and guidelines established by the institution to govern behavior, ensure safety, and promote inclusivity.
    • The implementation and enforcement of policies that foster a respectful and supportive environment for all members of the campus community.
Member Experiences:
    • The collective encounters, interactions, and engagements of individuals within the campus community.
    • Emphasis on creating positive, inclusive, and equitable experiences for students, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders.
History and Traditions:
    • The historical context and cultural heritage that contribute to the identity of the institution.
    • Acknowledgment and celebration of traditions that foster a sense of community and connection among members.
Demographics and Belonging
    • The composition of the campus community in terms of diversity, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic background, and other identity markers.
    • Efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring representation and opportunities for all members.
    • The extent to which individuals feel connected, accepted, and valued within the campus community.

 

Areas of focus

Demographics & Belonging

Demographics & Belonging

  • The composition of the campus community in terms of diversity, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic background, and other identity markers. 
  • Efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring representation and opportunities for all members.
  • The extent to which individuals feel connected, accepted, and valued within the campus community. 
History and Tradition

History & Traditions

  • The historical context and cultural heritage that contribute to the identity of the institution. 
  • Acknowledgment and celebration of traditions that foster a sense of community and connection among members. 
Experiences

Policies and Procedures and Experiences

Policies and Procedures: 

  • The set of rules, regulations, and guidelines established by the institution to govern behavior, ensure safety, and promote inclusivity. 
  • The implementation and enforcement of policies that foster a respectful and supportive environment for all members of the campus community. 

Member Experiences: 

  • The collective encounters, interactions, and engagements of individuals within the campus community. 
  • Emphasis on creating positive, inclusive, and equitable experiences for students, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders. 

VIDEO: Freedom of Expression at Wichita State University

Wichita State University is committed to preserving and supporting freedom of thought, speech, and expression on our campuses. We strive to ensure that all members of the University community have the greatest possible latitude to speak, write, listen, challenge, and learn, as allowed by law.

 

Facilitating Constructive Conversations

This guidance is a resource for faculty, staff, and students at Wichita State University to encourage and promote civil, thoughtful, and constructive discussions within our community, applicable both in and out of the classroom, and within or outside departments.

Background

How to Report a Campus Climate Concern

Have you witnessed or experienced a campus climate concern? If you are in immediate danger or feel threatened, call 911 OR THE UNIVERSITY POLICE DEPARTMENT AT (316) 978-3450.  If your concern is not an immediate threat, please submit a Report It form.