From March 9 to April 9, Michigan State University will launch its inaugural Spartan Community Survey: a comprehensive, first-ever institution-wide effort to better understand experiences, engagement and sense of belonging across the entire university community.

In a Feb. 18 message to students, staff and faculty, President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of broad voluntary and confidential participation to advance MSU 2030: Excellence for Global Impact and the university’s commitment to access, opportunity and excellence. Open to Spartans who learn and work across Michigan State University, the survey will establish an initial baseline to guide leadership decisions.

An initial data review will take place this summer with institutional leadership, followed by a subsequent public report and engagements with action-planning teams.

Building on accountability

Climate surveys are critical tools in higher education. They provide data-driven insight into lived experiences and help institutions identify both strengths and areas for growth. This survey moves the university from anecdotal understanding to a definitive, data-driven assessment.

By establishing a baseline understanding, MSU is reinforcing its responsibility as a public land-grant university to objectively assess its climate and reflect its commitment to continuously improve itself.

The Spartan Community Survey aligns with MSU’s ongoing commitment to accountability, as reflected in the Know More Survey. While distinct in scope and design, the Spartan Community Survey expands the university’s understanding of institutional climate, offering additional insight into experiences, treatment and interactions across all roles and units.

Confidential process for candid feedback

University leaders are encouraging strong participation across all groups — undergraduate, graduate and professional students; support staff; faculty; and academic staff — to ensure the findings reflect the full breadth of Spartan experiences.

“MSU’s goal is to create a trusted space where Spartans can share their lived experiences openly, knowing their voices will inform meaningful, institution-level action,” said Vice President and Chief Inclusion Officer Jabbar R. Bennett, Ph.D.

Capturing candid, authentic feedback is essential to the survey’s success. The survey is administered by SoundRocket, an Ann Arbor–based social science research organization specializing in higher education climate assessments. As an independent third-party partner, SoundRocket ensures a confidential and secure process.

How to participate

All students, staff and faculty are invited to take part. The survey takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.

Beginning March 9, Spartans should look for an email from SoundRocket containing a personalized survey link.

Participants can enter a sweepstakes featuring exciting prizes, including early registration or move-in opportunities, an MSU parking pass, Spartan apparel, exclusive campus tours and more!

High participation will ensure the survey reflects the breadth of experiences and viewpoints of the Spartan community. By sharing your experiences, Spartans across Michigan and beyond can help shape a university environment where everyone can thrive.

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