WASHINGTON – Leaders of student government organizations on college campuses perceive themselves as having more impact on institutional decision-making when they have a right to speak during discussion as opposed to an ability to vote later in the process.
That was one of the key findings in a research report released Thursday by the National Campus Leadership Council (NCLC). The Student Voice Index (SVI) report, titled “A Study on Student Voice in Decision-Making at Institutions of Higher Education,” is the result of a comprehensive study of the perceptions of more than 200 chief student representatives at a broad range of campuses across the nation, from public flagship universities and private research schools to community colleges, regional campuses and minority serving institutions.
With a rise in student activism on issues ranging from mental health and campus safety to college affordability and cultural diversity, some experts say an in-depth look at the level of student inclusion in school governing is overdue. The NCLC study examined not only student perceptions, but also institutional practices and policies relative to the role of student government leaders in institutional decision-making.
“Especially as we move into this new academic year and try to think ahead, it’s important we understand the issues on campuses today and the mechanisms to address them and build a culture that supports student involvement in problem-solving,” Andy MacCracken, NCLC executive director and co-founder, said in an interview with Diverse.
During the research report launch event at the National Press Club, other key report findings discussed were:
· 66 percent of student body presidents said they feel that they have a voice in their school’s decision-making.
· 61 percent said their school seeks their input on proposals that may affect students.
