Josh Downing, the associate director of Programming at Indiana University, and Bridget Yuhas, the director of Student Affairs Assessment and Planning and executive director of the Institute for Well-being at Butler University, share on the Student Well-being Institutional Support Survey (SWISS).
How did SWISS start?
BY: It began as a way to measure Butler’s institutional climate for student well-being. The project quickly grew as other institutions learned about the survey and wanted to administer it at their own campuses.
Can you share some of the top findings so far?
BY: Students perceive their institutions are providing:
- Strong academic support outside of the classroom.
- Spaces on campus where all students can feel welcome.
- Support for students developing personal values and purpose.
- Emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion.
Areas of opportunity include helping students develop financial literacy, and ensuring they know where to seek support and solutions for social isolation and improving their own nutrition.
What impact has the survey had in the realm of campus recreation so far?
JD: Time will tell on this part of SWISS. We have added additional campus rec specific questions that will demonstrate impact. The data institutions get from SWISS will inform their strategic plan. Plus, it help with providing strategic direction in their programming, their spaces, how they deliver service, etc.
Can you share one impactful story SWISS has helped make happen?
BY: At the University of South Alabama (USA), SWISS results showed a much higher than expected percentage of students who were experiencing food insecurity. Campus partners gathered to formulate interventions, and USA plans to open a food pantry for students to help address the need.
What else would you share when it comes to SWISS?
JD: It highlights how cross-functional well-being is and how important it is to have stakeholders involved. SWISS is great at helping institutions figure out the how. It also provides foundational information for a holistic approach to health and well-being. If you have a well-being initiative implemented, SWISS will show you what you’re doing well and where there might be some gaps and opportunities.
