In Spring 2025, Fitchburg State University, in partnership with Grand River Solutions, conducted a campus climate survey to assess students’ experiences and perceptions related to sexual misconduct and campus well-being. The survey was sent to all degree-seeking students (N=5,296), with 459 students (9%) completing the survey. Participation was anonymous and voluntary.
Student Experience Survey 2025 Report (PDF)
Key Findings
- Students expressed some concerns about school connectedness and the campus culture.
- There is opportunity to improve knowledge of policies and resources.
- Overall, reporting to campus officials was low.
- Many students who experienced sexual misconduct reported academic and mental health impacts.
- Students may benefit from bystander training.
Next Steps: Action Planning and Institutional Response
A cross-functional team at the university has been formed to further analyze the data and address areas of concerns. The university and this team are partnering with Culture of Respect (NASPA initiative) to create a tailored action plan that is trauma-informed, inclusive, and sustainable, prioritizing the following:
- Enhance Prevention and Training: Expanding on the Fitchburg Anti-Violence Education (FAVE) programming around myths, norms, and bystander intervention with targeted attention on the most vulnerable populations, including LGB+ students.
- Improve Communication and Accessibility: The 2025 Equal Opportunity Plan has been drafted to include both the nondiscrimination policy and sexual harassment policy with an easier to use format. The pre-revised versions can be found on the Equal Opportunity and Title IX page. Once published, additional materials will be made available to ensure policies are in plain language and visible in key campus areas. Outreach to underinformed populations will be made to clarify the reporting process. Reports and referrals can be made directly to titleix@fitchburgstate.edu or via this reporting form.
- Strengthen Support and Mental Health Services: Training opportunities for employees on trauma-informed support and mental health referrals.
- Address Reporting Barriers: Continue to reduce the burden of reporting through streamlined procedures in collaboration with Title IX/EO, UPD, CARE, Student Conduct, Housing and Residence Life, and Human Resources.
Sexual Misconduct Climate Survey Implementation Team/Partners
- Matt Bruun
- Becca Buonocore
- Shane Franzen
- Brion Keagle
- Nicolette Magone
- Kimberly McCoy-Blauser
- Bonnie McCullough
- Jeff McVoy
- Bettiann Peura
- Eric Wheeler
- Student Government
- Student Affairs Staff
- Student leaders