Our Core Functions
Student Affairs utilizes data-driven assessment, incorporating people and budget considerations to align programs with co-curricular goals, improve practices, and support effective outcomes for all students. A quarterly committee provides guidance and oversight, facilitating continuous improvement through clear, visualized reporting.
Assessment in Student Affairs helps ensure that all Spartans have access to meaningful learning experiences, feel a sense of belonging, and receive the support they need to succeed.
Assessment Planning
Assessment Planning guides assessment efforts for a divisional department. The plan includes a department’s mission, vision, goals for the year, a number of assessment “activities” to accomplish, methods, targets, findings, and next steps based on results. Assessment in the Division of Student Affairs emerges is conducted within the integrated planning framework of the Student Affairs Curriculum and is aligned with divisional learning and operational priorities.
Why this matters for students: This process helps ensure that programs are intentional, aligned, and responsive to the learning experiences and support students receive throughout the year.
Integrated Planning
Integrated Planning involves the department’s plan for the upcoming academic year (projects activity between July 1 - June 30). The purpose is to convey the department’s goals and priorities for budget, allocations, operations, programs, services, expected student learning and operational outcomes, and assessment plans, with eligibility and participation open to all units and staff based on role function. The annual integrated planning deadline is May 31.
Why this matters for students: Integrated planning helps departments coordinate people, time, and resources efficiently so students experience clear priorities, continuity, and access across Student Affairs programs.
Data Collection
Data Collection is crucial for any assessment project. This involves determining what data is needed, gathering that data, and then assembling it for analysis. Data collection practices follow institutional guidelines related to privacy, nondiscrimination, and appropriate use of data.
Why this matters for students: Thoughtful data collection helps Student Affairs listen to student experiences and understand needs, barriers, and strengths across the student population.
Analytics
Analytics enable departments to create visualizations and dashboards of assessment results. These informational and statistical graphics convey the impact of activities on student learning outcomes and operational objectives in support of continuous improvement.
Why this matters for students: Analytics help translate information into clear, accessible insights that show how programs support student learning, well-being, and success.
Integrated Reporting
Integrated Reporting summarizes the department’s impact and outcomes for the current academic year, using consistent, role-relevant measures. The annual integrated reporting deadline is late June to mid July (reflects activity between July 1 - June 30).
Why this matters for students: Integrated reporting communicates how Student Affairs programs contribute to student learning, belonging, and well-being, supporting reflection and shared improvement over time.
Assessment and Data-Informed Practices Working Group
This working group supports Student Affairs’ commitment to listening to students, using evidence responsibly, and improving programs that shape the student experience. The charge of the Student Affairs Assessment and Data Informed Practices Working Group charge is to strengthen a culture of evidence and reflection across the Division by promoting meaningful assessment and data-informed decision-making aligned with divisional goals.
Working group member roles include:
- Liaising with unit leadership and assessment leads to support role-appropriate assessment planning and reporting
- Supporting data collection, analysis, and continuous improvement cycles
- Facilitating communication and feedback within unit
