Date of Award

Spring 2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs

Committee Chairperson

Orkideh Mohajeri, Ph.D.

Committee Member

James Tweedy, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Heather Horowitz, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Jacqueline Hodes, Ed.D.

Abstract

This thesis examines discrepancies that marginalize students, faculty and staff from utilizing or working in campus recreation facilities. More specifically, Campus Recreation departments lack strategies that ensure inclusion for all abilities, identity backgrounds and genders. This critical action research thesis considers the experiences of stakeholders and will integrate research that has been supported by seasoned scholars. In this thesis, a three-day diversity and inclusion workshop is proposed supplemented by monthly programming for faculty and staff that focuses on inclusion techniques to incorporate into departmental planning. Solid leadership of this programmatic intervention would focus on collaboration and dedication to lifelong learning. An evaluation plan is designed based on a sense of belonging survey from students, faculty and staff that help to understand feelings of acceptance and access to equal opportunities. Widespread application of this intervention signifies that colleges will prioritize their goals and values to strive to dismantle deeply rooted, systemic discrimination.

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