Our Goal
In these challenging times, marked by heightened socio-political tensions and increased scrutiny of higher education institutions, we recognize the profound impact such dynamics have on our campus community. The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment where EVERY voice is heard and valued. Understanding the diverse experiences of our students, faculty, and staff is more crucial than ever as we navigate these complexities together.
The campus climate at UMBC shapes the lives of all of us. This study is a crucial step in ensuring that our campus remains a place where all individuals feel valued and supported. Understanding deeply the varied experiences of our community is a critical part of continuing to improve how we work toward creating a more inclusive and equitable campus environment.
This assessment will allow us to better understand the experiences of our community. We know from the research that thriving campus climates contribute directly to overall success for students, staff, and faculty. The results will assist us in better understanding our learning, living, and working environments (what we are doing well and where there are challenges). This is an opportunity for you to ensure your voice is part of this effort.
Please review this presentation for an overview of the project.
Campus Climate Matters
The research literature supports that the campus climate influences the levels to which students, faculty, and staff members thrive. People who feel connected and supported by their campus communities have a higher likelihood of success in every area of their lives.
View Final Assessment Materials
Have Questions?
Review answers regarding the purpose of the campus climate assessment, why engagement is important, the assessment process, how the resulting data will be used and more on our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Timeline
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| December 2024 | Campus Preparation |
| January-March 2025 | Tailor assessment tool; develop communications plan; submit IRB proposal |
| April 1- May 2, 2025 | Administer campus climate assessment; data management |
| May-June 2025 | Conduct quantitative and qualitative data analysis |
| July-December 2025 | Develop and present key findings report |
| December 2025-February 2026 | Develop a change management plan and accountability roadmap; develop data visualization dashboards; campus presentation of key findings |
| February-June 2026 | Ongoing strategic advising and support provided to individual units by the Division of Institutional Equity |
Meet the Working Group
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Lynne Adams | Associate Vice President, and Chief Human Resources Officer |
| Jennifer Artis | Director, Student Belonging |
| Tanyka Barber | Vice President, Institutional Equity |
| Nicki Belfiore | Clinical Assistant Professor, Social Work |
| Danielle Bolden | International Student and Scholar Advisor |
| Charlotte Broderick | Student Government Association, DEI Director |
| Catalina Sofia Dansberger Duque | Communications Manager |
| Chinonso Ezeobi | Graduate Student, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering |
| Griselda Flores | Director, Essential Needs and Connections (Exempt Staff Senate Representative) |
| Eric Ford | Executive Director, Shriver Center |
| Matt Hoffman | Director, Center for Religion, Spirituality, & Pluralism |
| Maggie Holland | Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Geography and Environmental Systems |
| Brianna Hughes | STEM Reference and Instruction Librarian (Faculty Senate Representative) |
| Maggie Kinsley | Adjunct Faculty (AFAC Representative) |
| Jasmine Lee (Co-Chair) | Associate Vice President for Community & Culture |
| Shannon Tinney Lichtinger | Director of Institutional Research |
| Tawny McManus | Assistant Vice President for Accessibility and Disability Services |
| Ana Oskoz | Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs |
| Walter Parrish | Assistant Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs |
| Jerron Pearson | Associate Athletic Director |
| Timothy Phin | President, LGBTQ Faculty Staff Association |
| Molly Power | Planner, Facilities Management |
| Laila Shishineh | Assistant Vice Provost and Assistant Dean, Academic Engagement & Transition Programs |
| Orianne Smith (Co-Chair) | Associate Professor, English |
| Christopher Steele | Vice Provost, Division of Professional Studies |
| Sondra Steggman | Director, Strategic Enrollment Marketing |
| Mary Ellen Wade | Director, Student Affairs Assessment and Planning |
| Terisa White | Executive Administrative Assistant (Nonexempt Staff Senate Representative) |
| Jess Wyatt | Associate Director, Alumni Engagement |
News and Announcements
Stay up to date with the latest campus news and announcements.
Reminder: Campus Climate Survey Closes on May 2
Please share your voice for this important campus project
Posted: April 28, 2025, 2:00 PM
Participate in Campus Climate Survey
Please share your voice for this important campus project
Posted: April 8, 2025, 4:00 PM
Assessment of Community, Engagement, and Belonging
Posted: April 8, 2025, 3:06 PM