The significance of cultural diversity to the educational process has been recognized since the mid-19th century, and is reflected in the philosophies of presidents of Harvard University (Massachusetts). Current issues in diversity on campus should be viewed in this long-term perspective, with appreciation for the time it takes to effect real…

Examines the nature and characteristics of the phenomenon of retrenchment in universities and systems since the late 1970s. Five categories of financial reduction are identified, giving special attention to the situation of financial reduction coupled with increased demand and to approaches characterized by restructuring. Discusses consequences…

Uses autobiographical narratives by authors and student collaborators to construct a criticism of retention programs and these programs' promotion of institutional racism. Examines historical deculturization, the objectification of students of color, and the power-knowledge nexus. Concludes with suggestions for establishing the credibility of…

Study of 18 four-year colleges found that joining a fraternity during the first year of college has significant negative impact on four cognitive outcomes: reading comprehension, mathematics, critical thinking, and composite achievement. Joining a sorority in the first year negatively influenced reading comprehension and composite achievement.…

Compares the self-reported cheating behaviors of fraternity and non-fraternity members and the relation between student cheating and the overall level of greek membership on campus. Fraternity and sorority members cheat more than non-members but cheating would not change dramatically if fraternities or sororities did not exist on campus. (RJM)

Examines the historical role of aesthetics in higher education and student affairs. Argues that aesthetic perception provides an alternative way of thinking about student development, cultural diversity, and the assessment of programs. Such values can add passion and vision to student affairs leadership and enable individuals to develop emotional…

Describes one university's effort to promote campus diversity through a required freshman course. Discusses the three goals set for the course, outlines the method of evaluation used, describes the course's effects on student attitudes and beliefs, and reports student and faculty satisfaction regarding the course. (RJM)

Provides an historical overview of affirmative action in higher education, with a special emphasis on gender issues. Examines past successes, along with some of the obstacles still faced by women. Discusses the character of the debate on affirmative action in higher education and the need for campus diversity. (RJM)

Four types of "borders"--alienated, coexistent, interdependent, and integrated--are discussed and applied to the university environment. University professors need to demonstrate leadership in negotiating borders. Whether the focus is on changing relationships with faculty or students or promoting equitable treatment for all people in…

Aboriginal peoples' achievements, knowledge, histories, and perspectives are often ignored or marginalized in universities across Canada and beyond. An interdisciplinary Indigenous research project aims to address the deficit in public understanding and animate a truly postcolonial university, focusing on Elders' guidance, research ethics,…

The evolving mission and curriculum of Black colleges are discussed. Topics include the ideological conflict between accommodationism and liberal arts education as the focus for Black college education and the contributions of various Black colleges and educators. The evolution of teacher education at Black colleges is also discussed. (IAH)

Date and acquaintance rape may be more prevalent on college campuses than in other environments, and colleges are struggling to confront the issue. Sexism and racism contribute to underreporting of and misconceptions about sexual abuse in college settings. Policies, programs, and procedures for combating sexual assaults on campus are recommended.…

A recently released report by a Stanford University committee examining race relations in every segment of campus life concluded that despite racial diversity, race relations are strained and full integration must be accomplished. The report's conclusions and recommendations relate to the undergraduate and graduate student bodies, faculty, and…

Explores the impact of information technologies on the institutional and organizational arrangements through which scholarly research is supported. Topics discussed include the advent of workstations for scholars that would be linked in with other workstations and with many kinds of information sources world-wide, and the functions which these…

A survey of 784 minority group applicants to the University of Massachusetts at Amherst who were accepted but did not enroll indicates that prospective students are very aware of racial incidents on campus and made college choice decisions based in part on that information. Black students were particularly affected. (MSE)