Unpacking Diversity

This year, we take an introspective look at our college climate and how it influences the experiences of members of the CEOAS community, especially those of marginalized groups and from underrepresented communities. By assessing the context in which CEOAS exists, i.e. the histories of where we are and of our fields, we can gain insight into the racial and social climate that exists in our college and how we might affect positive change to CEOAS culture that promotes social justice, equity, and inclusion.

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A campus climate can be thought of as the behaviors within a workplace or learning environment that can influence whether an individual feels personally safe, listened to, valued, and respected. Climate plays an important role in people’s satisfaction, effectiveness, productivity, engagement, and decisions to remain in or leave a department or area of study, and is critical to faculty and student retention.

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This year's aim in examining climate:

1.  Gain a deeper understanding of the framework of our college

   • How does it affect the college’s atmosphere with regards to diversity, equity, and inclusion?

2. Continue to enhance awareness of the specific challenges of marginalized groups in earth, ocean, and atmospheric sciences, and the broader STEM community

   • Individuals with visible/invisible disabilities, LGBTQIA+, people of color

For more information on college climate and departments, view resources to assess and enhance department climate created by the Women in Science & Engineering Leadership Institute, UW-Madison.