Surveyed 140 institutions to assess the drinking behavior of fraternity and sorority members. Found that fraternity and sorority house environments appear to tolerate the hazardous use of alcohol, particularly binge drinking. A disproportionate number of students who were binge drinkers in high school become members of fraternities. (RJM)

Tests an instrument that will enable universities to assess and evaluate the effects of multicultural campus programming. The tool was validated with two studies, using a sample of university students, faculty members, and staff members. Results indicate that the inventory is both reliable and valid. (RJM)

Homosexual and bisexual students at an urban commuter university (N=33) evaluated academic and student services and commented on areas of needed improvement. Results suggest that these students experience harassment on campus and are ambivalent about the responsiveness of student services. Most students did not utilize many student services'…

Examines the impact of homogeneity and diversity in communities and in higher education. Provides an overview of affirmative action, the challenges associated with instilling difference, and some of the strategies needed to impose change. Argues that higher education must reflect the realities of society. (RJM)

Argues that although certain assumptions underlie those who have received affirmative action, these programs have produced many important successes. Examines the ironic polarizing effect of affirmative action and discusses how affirmative action should not be confused with diversity. Highlights the importance of diversity and its role in higher…

Argues that achieving cultural diversity on college campuses requires nothing less than a complete transformation of institutions of higher learning. Discusses strategies in recognizing racial and social inequality, new ways of seeing minority students, new ways of developing curriculum, and suggestions for reinventing the university. (RJM)

Discusses the dominant historic, economic, political, and social issues which affect the retention of African American college students through studies on ecological psychology. Considers the behaviors demonstrated by historically Black colleges which translate into effective retention policies or practices for predominantly White institutions.…

Compared the adjustment of 182 international students to a comparison sample of U.S. students to determine if they have greater difficulty adjusting to college life. Found that international students are more likely to feel lonely, homesick, and as if they had left part of themselves at home. Also confirmed the importance of social networks in…

Researchers examined the perspectives of 274 senior housing officers and 283 graduate students on the declining number of resident director candidates. Data from two separate surveys indicated that quality of life, remuneration, and interest in the residence life profession were significant issues. Implications for professional preparation,…

A major research university in a metropolitan location reexamines its sense of campus community and discovers that it should not approach living and learning as separate activities; the institution purposely used extensive housing construction and renovation to achieve the institution's educational mission and encourage a greater sense of…

Although many talk about cultural diversity on campus, the reality of a multicultural environment in higher education is rarely recognized. Barriers include communication problems, differing cultural values, and nonverbal communication patterns. Realizing a multicultural environment requires risk taking, openness to ideas, patience, and respect.…

Describes efforts at the University of Virginia to change climate for women within the institution. Describes the process of organizing women, forming a task force, identifying barriers, and producing changes. Concludes that partnership between an association of faculty and staff, and a supportive senior administration has enabled change to come…

Argues that potentially dramatic undergraduate educational reform lies in aggressive leadership provided by student affairs professionals and university presidents in quality of life issues outside classroom. (Author/CM)

Discusses Allan Bloom's "The Closing of the American Mind" and its implications for higher education. Examines Bloom's analysis of historical changes that involved universities in societal pressures, thereby weakening them. Supports Bloom's mandate that universities delineate their function and measure achievement against the fundamental…

An institution that exists primarily for its own sake--that identifies itself primarily in terms of its resources and reputation--compromises its capacity as an instrument for improving society. Colleges need to transcend their institutional egos and concern themselves with their impact on students and society. (MLW)