Journal of College Orientation, Transition, and Retention

Challenging Heterosexual White College Men to Engage in Campus Diversity Efforts

An Orientation Imperative

Jörg Vianden

University of Wisconsin La Crosse

Mitch Berry

University of Wisconsin La Crosse

Tori Svoboda

University of Wisconsin La Crosse

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/jcotr.v26i1.2112

---

Abstract

Most college orientation programs include sessions on diversity-related topics (NODA, 2014). Yet, bias-motivated behavior continues to affect post-secondary institutions. Heterosexual White college men are often responsible for this behavior and also disengage from campus diversity efforts more than any other student group. The Straight White College Men Project, a multi-institutional qualitative research study with 92 participants, explored what attracts or repels students from campus diversity efforts. Findings directly inform the ways orientation professionals can challenge heterosexual White college men to engage in diversity efforts during and after orientation programs. Recommendations for orientation professionals are presented.

---

Author Biographies

Jörg Vianden, University of Wisconsin La Crosse

Ed.D., Associate Professor and Department Chair

Mitch Berry, University of Wisconsin La Crosse

Graduate Student, Student Affairs Administration

Tori Svoboda, University of Wisconsin La Crosse

Ed.D., Assistant Professor