Examining the Relationship Between Culturally Engaging Campus Environments and Civic Propensity Among Diverse College Students

Civic engagement among college students is crucial for both their personal growth and the health of a diverse democracy. Studies have examined various factors that foster civic outcomes among college students. However, research on the role of campus culture and environment in shaping civic outcomes is limited. To address this gap, authors analyzed survey data from 704 students at a predominantly White institution utilizing linear regression techniques and examined the impacts of culturally engaging campus environments on civic propensity (e.g., civic commitment and capacity) among White students and students of color. Results indicate that several components of culturally engaging campus environments are positively associated with civic propensity for both White students and students of color. The analysis also shows some variations in terms of how culturally engaging campus environments shape civic propensity among these subgroups. Authors also discuss implications for future research and practice.