In early March, Queen’s launched a comprehensive pilot initiative called the Student Experiences Survey to explore perceptions and experiences of systemic racism, exclusionary and discriminatory behaviours, and sexual violence on campus.

During the period of March 4-26, all Queen’s students were invited to complete an online, voluntary, anonymous survey, and more than 6,000 students participated. Insights from these students will help inform and measure the progress and effects of anti-racism and anti-violence initiatives as Queen’s works to fulfill its Declaration of Commitment to Address Systemic Racism.

“Queen’s is, and must always be, striving to create an environment in which everyone feels welcomed, included, and safe to learn and live as authentically as possible,” says Stephanie Simpson, Associate Vice-Principal (Human Rights, Equity, and Inclusion). “Student voices are integral in making this a reality, and the Student Experiences Survey will help illuminate barriers that still must be overcome and establish benchmarks against which we can stand accountable as we move to advance this important work.”

An early look at survey data shows broad and varied participation among undergraduate and graduate-level students across all faculties and years of study, including representation from both domestic and international students. The survey invited respondents to disclose racial, gender, sexual and other identities to better understand and measure the campus climate for underrepresented and marginalized students.

“We are so grateful to students for their openness to participate, as we know some of their experiences may have been difficult to share,” says Ann Tierney, Vice-Provost and Dean, Student Affairs. “This information will help us better understand the campus climate as it is now; it will also assist us in building and refining initiatives, programs, and support services to help move our institution toward greater equity and wellbeing for all who learn here.”

Student participation in this survey is contributing to positive impacts beyond our campus community. The first 2,000 students to complete the survey were offered a $5 token of appreciation which they could either accept as an on-campus dining credit or contribute to one of three local charities. Students chose to donate more than $6,100 to Mohawk Language and Cultural Centre Tsi Tyónnheht Onkwawén:na, Loving Spoonful, and the Sexual Assault Centre Kingston.  

The survey data will be analyzed over the coming weeks and an institutional snapshot report will be shared with the campus community in June 2021 with further analyses coming later in the summer and fall.  

Students will be engaged in future decision-making and implementation of new strategies stemming from survey insights. Students can indicate their interest in being involved in this ongoing work by emailing studentexperiencessurvey@queensu.ca

To learn more about the Queen’s Student Experiences Survey visit the Inclusive Queen’s website.