This article examines the psychological theoretical foundations of college student development theory and the theoretical assumptions of this framework. A complimentary, sociological perspective and the theoretical assumptions of this approach are offered. The potential limitations of the overuse of each perspective are considered. The conclusion…

This qualitative study employed focus group interviews to explore students' perceptions of three well established academically based living-learning communities at a large, land-grant university in the Midwest. Three themes merged that illustrated students' perceptions of a culture that promoted seamless learning, a scholarly environment, and an…

This article presents a case study at Oakmont University where a presidential debate will be held on campus. Oakmont University is a large public research institution located in the Southeastern United States. This Carnegie Doctoral/Research I institution enrolls more than 35,000, 75% undergraduate and 25% graduate students. Located in somewhat of…

Colleges often seek to promote a psychological sense of community (PSOC) among their students. However, there is limited research on factors promoting PSOC, and little empirical evidence on whether students of different ethnic backgrounds might experience PSOC differently. This study, which took place on a predominantly White campus, explored…

Article explores the impact of September 11th terrorist attacks on stress, prejudicial attitudes, and hateful acts as they relate to college campuses. It presents a review of the literature concerning stressors and their impact on stereotyping and prejudice. This leads to a proposed proactive model with the purpose of building healthy campus…

This study of African American student affairs administrators at predominantly White institutions (PWIs) derives four strategies that leaders at PWIs may consider when attempting to retain this population: communicate and integrate a philosophy of fairness into the campus environment; develop or support mentoring opportunities; empower African…

At a predominantly White institution 118 African American students completed the Racial Identity Attitude Scale to assess the effects of racial identity on grade point average and students' psychological sense of belonging on campus. The results of the study indicated that academic achievement was not related to any of the racial identity…

Asserts that the Individual Psychology of Alfred Adler should be used as a foundational theory for student affairs work. The success of community building programs is explained and the concepts of Individual Psychology are summarized. Also asserts that the current drive to develop programs to develop community on college campuses is firmly rooted…

Campus environments easily impact the ability of higher education professionals to establish campus community. Campus buildings, settings, and environment are important aspects of the development and maintenance of community. This article provides an introduction to environmental impact and one institution's approach in redesigning their Greek…

Examines the relationship between sense of community as perceived by freshman African American students at predominantly White public institutions and the intent of these students to re-enroll. Findings indicate that students who did not intend to re-enroll had a significantly lower mean College and University Community Inventory score on one…

Examines what participation in a first-year residential learning community means to students 2-3 years after their involvement in the program. Results showed that participants valued greatly their involvement and can articulate how it helped them succeed. Most recall the sense of community that existed, the personal growth they experienced, their…

This article describes one institution's efforts to improve the sense of campus community. Two years ago, the institution determined that this was a key to achieving the campus's goal of improving retention. The article details the planning process, examples of projects, and assessments. The report discusses how goals were achieved or not…

At George Mason University, the University Life office charged a university-wide committee to improve the coherence and coordination of collaborative programming. By designing and funding more diverse programming, the University Life office offers programs that are more inclusive of the campuses ethnic and cultural subgroups. Article provides an…

Higher education professionals continue to seek ways to improve campus community. It is imperative that individuals know their responsibilities as student affairs professionals and their roles within this process. This article provides examples of best practices in community development, ideas for practice, and a glimpse into the future of…

This study investigates the differences between levels of moral reasoning for traditional and nontraditional students. Results indicated that both groups of students enter college at similar levels. Implications of these findings would suggest that the college experience, not age is the most influential factor in the development of moral…