Understanding COACHE 2025: Our Commitment to Transparency and Action
At VCU, we believe that faculty voices are essential to shaping a thriving academic community. The COACHE survey, administered by Harvard University, offers a powerful lens into the faculty experience, including what’s working, where we can grow, and how we can lead together. We are committed to sharing these results transparently, interpreting them collaboratively, and using them to guide meaningful improvements across our campuses. This is more than just a report, it’s a call to action, and we’re grateful to every faculty member who contributed.
Below are 10 key facts to help you understand what COACHE is, what it tells us, and how we’re using it to build a better VCU.
10 Things to Know About COACHE 2025
- The data were collected by COACHE at Harvard University. VCU did not administer the survey or gather the responses.
- All analyses were conducted by COACHE. VCU did not manipulate or interpret the raw data.
- The report was provided to VCU by COACHE. It reflects Harvard’s independent analysis of VCU faculty responses.
- VCU’s results are benchmarked against 85 peer institutions. This comparative lens helps us understand where we lead and where we can grow.
- The report is available at provost.vcu.edu/coache. Faculty are encouraged to explore the findings and follow ongoing updates via the provost’s blog and on the COACHE website.
- We are committed to transparent sharing. All communications adhere to our IRB protocol and COACHE’s data-sharing agreement.
- The raw survey data are protected under strict confidentiality. As part of our partnership with COACHE, VCU agreed to data-sharing and IRB protocols that prohibit distribution of the raw data. These safeguards ensure respondent privacy and uphold the integrity of the research.
- A faculty-accessible dashboard is in development. Launching in spring 2026, it will allow tailored exploration of results by role and unit.
- The COACHE Steering Committee meets regularly. Member responsibilities include interpreting the findings and identifying actionable opportunities.
- Faculty voices are shaping the path forward. Your feedback is guiding recommendations, initiatives, and institutional priorities.
Stay Connected
We’re committed to listening, learning, and leading together, and your voice is essential to that work. If you have questions, ideas, or reflections, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out anytime at [email protected], and learn more about the COACHE Steering Committee and how to connect with members. Thank you for being part of this conversation and this community.
Categories COACHE