Diversity at Christian Colleges: It’s About the Mission

Joel Perez, Ph.D.Dean of Transitions and Inclusion,George Fox University

The ResearchThe focus was to go beyond

issues of access and success (enrollment), campus climate, and educational and scholarly mission (curriculum)

The focus was on institutional vitality and viability (mission and sustaining efforts over a long period of time)

Research Question #1For institutions that have shown some

evidence of a commitment to diversity using Smith’s (2009) dimensions of diversity, what drives these efforts?◦ What role, if any, do their missions play in

driving the change?◦ Does tension exist between their missions

and diversity?

Research Question #2How have institutions linked their diversity

work with their history and theology? ◦ If they have linked their efforts to their theology,

what biblical texts do they use to make that link?◦ Are there events in the institution’s or their

denomination’s history that either hinder or help change in the area of diversity?

Research Question #3What types of efforts are being made to

facilitate change in the area of diversity?◦ How are they coordinating their efforts?◦ How are they monitoring their progress?

MethodologyCase studies at four institutions that

are members of the CCCU◦ Intercultural University – Denominational

institution (Mainline) in the Northwest.◦Peace College – Denominational

institution (Peace Church) in the Midwest.◦Unity College – Non-denominational

institution in the Southwest.◦ Inclusive University – Denominational

institution (a historically small evangelical denomination on the East Coast.

MethodologyData collection

◦ Document analysis◦ Website analysis◦ Institutional data◦ Interviews were conducted

Cross-case analysis organized using Smith’s (2009) framework

FindingsAll four institutions were making progress in

each dimensionAll four institutions share drivers that

motivate them to become more diverse◦ Mission

◦ Biblical basis for diversity

Tension between their mission and aspects of diversity◦ Sexual orientation

◦ Religious

◦ Academic quality and diversity

FindingsNone of the institutions are monitoring and

coordinating efforts effectively Institutional leadership essential in

sustaining effortsTwo institutions are positioned to sustain

their efforts◦ Intercultural University ◦ Unity College

Implications for PracticeStarts with mission and theologyLeadership is vitalTension should be acknowledged and

acceptedA framework for institutional change

necessaryLeveraging history to make progress Identification/employment of a chief

diversity officer

Implications for PracticeDiversifying the board of trusteesHiring an ethnically diverse workforceFaculty developmentUse of scholarships for increasing enrollmentPrograms remain important