Case Study: UC Berkeley IST achieves a more inclusive, engaged workplace with Civility Partners

UC Berkeley improves culture scores in 15 months with Civility Partners

UC Berkeley's Information Services and Technology (IST) Department faced a significant challenge when public allegations of a hostile work environment and discrimination surfaced, damaging staff morale and trust in leadership. To understand the pervasiveness of these issues and begin a culture change, the department engaged Civility Partners for a comprehensive climate assessment and intervention.

Civility Partners implemented a multi-phase solution, beginning with a survey and interviews to diagnose the issues. They then formed an employee action team to craft a strategic plan for change, which included initiatives to build trust, increase transparency, and integrate core competencies. Civility Partners also provided bystander/ally training and coaching for leaders. The results were significant: a follow-up survey 15 months later showed marked improvement in engagement, job satisfaction, and perceptions of diversity commitment, with the gap in experience between different demographic groups narrowing dramatically. Civility Partners provided the tools for UC Berkeley to continue its positive culture rebuild.

UC Berkeley (Information Services and Technology Department)