University Climate Report Shows Progress, Points to Gaps in Equity and Trust

Student walks towards the Mission Church on Santa Clara University. Photo by Nina Glick

Santa Clara University has reported increases in overall satisfaction and comfort among members of its campus community, according to the University’s 2025 Campus Climate Study released by the Office for Diversity and Inclusion. 

The survey, conducted from January through April this year, is the University’s second-ever assessment of campus experiences since 2018.

About 30.54% of students, faculty and staff participated in the study, up from 27% in 2018. Among respondents, 83.62% said they felt “comfortable” or “very comfortable” with the overall campus climate, an 11-point increase from the prior survey. Faculty and staff also reported improvements in their workplace environments, with nearly 79% expressing comfort within their departments.

The report cited the timing of the study—occurring after the COVID-19 pandemic and leadership transitions—as context for the findings. The University’s current administration includes President Julie Sullivan and Vice President for Inclusive Excellence Shá Duncan Smith.

Students Report Strong Academics but Uneven Sense of Belonging

Most students rated their academic experience positively. About 80% of students reported being satisfied with their studies, and 95% indicated plans to graduate from the University. However, the report found lower satisfaction among first-generation students, particularly in the School of Engineering and Leavey School of Business, who cited challenges related to academic preparation and support resources.

In the classroom, 90% of students said they “feel safe,” and 88% said they feel “valued” by faculty. At the same time, 38% agreed that academic misconduct occurs, and about one-quarter said they had witnessed microaggressions among peers. Roughly half of students said they felt empowered to fully participate in class discussions.

Faculty and Staff Express Satisfaction, Seek Greater Clarity and Advancement

Faculty and staff respondents described generally positive relationships with colleagues and supervisors. Both groups reported feeling supported in their work environments and said their contributions were valued.

Areas identified for improvement included clarity in performance evaluations, pay equity and professional advancement. Only 45% of faculty said the performance review process was clear, and fewer than 25% of staff said they saw clear opportunities for career progression.

While about three-quarters of faculty and staff said they would recommend the University as a good workplace, less than half reported feeling valued by senior administrators.

Reports of Discrimination Decline but Persist

Approximately 12% of respondents said they experienced exclusionary or hostile behavior within the past year, down from 24% in 2018. Reported discrimination most frequently related to gender, race or political viewpoints.

The study also found that 28% of respondents identified as having a condition or disability that affects their learning or work. Of those, 36% said they encountered challenges on campus, often citing accessibility barriers or a lack of understanding from faculty and staff.

Confidence in Reporting Processes

Roughly 80% of participants said they knew how to report discrimination or harassment, and 73% said they were confident the University takes reports seriously. About one-quarter, however, expressed skepticism about accountability and transparency in how complaints are handled.

Looking Ahead

The report concludes that Santa Clara University has made progress in overall inclusion, safety, and belonging since 2018, but continues to face challenges related to accessibility, compensation and trust in leadership. The Office for Diversity and Inclusion said the findings will inform upcoming initiatives under the University’s Impact 2030 strategic plan.