The Stanford Panel on Faculty Equity and Quality of Life recently released findings from one of two faculty diversity studies focusing on improving recognition of underrepresented minorities (URM) and opportunities for diversity research.

From 2008 to 2013, the share of URM faculty as a proportion of the faculty cohort increased by 43 percent. Just 7.3 percent of the University’s total faculty, however, comprises URM faculty members.

The first report involved in-depth interviews with 52 URM faculty members. Major findings included the need to feel valued among colleagues, “research isolation” due to unique subject areas and disproportionate amount of diversity-related services.

Recommendations focused on expanding current programs that attracted more URM faculty members over the last few years, including encouraging more interaction through research and increasing faculty involvement in projects related to issues of diversity.

“It is vitally important that all faculty members experience an encouraging and rewarding environment, and that we pay attention to the issues raised in this report,” said Karen Cook ’68, vice provost for faculty development and diversity, to Diverse.

The second report, which focuses on mentorship and URM participation in decision making, will be released in the fall.