Mormonism and the University of Utah
The University of Utah, a prominent public research institution located in Salt Lake City, has had a long-standing affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), commonly known as the Mormon Church. Historically, the university had close ties to the LDS Church, with a significant proportion of its students and faculty being members of the faith. However, in recent decades, the university has taken steps towards becoming more secular and less affiliated with the LDS Church.
Mormon Percentage among Students
According to data from the Cooperative Institutional Research Program (CIRP), the University of Utah’s student body is composed of approximately 15% Mormon students. This percentage has been gradually declining over the past few years, reflecting the overall trend of decreasing Mormon affiliation among younger generations.
Table 1: Mormon Percentage among University of Utah Students
| Year | Mormon Percentage |
|---|---|
| 2000 | 25% |
| 2010 | 20% |
| 2015 | 18% |
| 2020 | 15% |
| 2022 | 14% (estimated) |
Mormon Percentage among Faculty and Staff
The percentage of Mormon faculty and staff at the University of Utah is also relatively high. According to a survey conducted by the university, approximately 25% of faculty and 30% of staff identify as Mormon. This may be attributed to the historical affiliation between the university and the LDS Church, as well as the presence of many LDS-majority communities in the surrounding area.
Table 2: Mormon Percentage among University of Utah Faculty and Staff
| Year | Mormon Percentage |
|---|---|
| 2000 | 35% |
| 2010 | 30% |
| 2015 | 28% |
| 2020 | 25% (faculty) |
| 2022 | 30% (staff) |
Impact of Mormonism on Campus Culture
The presence of a significant Mormon population on campus has had a noticeable impact on the university’s culture. For instance, the university observes a strict alcohol ban on campus, and there are several prominent student organizations affiliated with the LDS Church. Additionally, many students participate in religious services and activities organized by the LDS Church’s student wards.
Secularization Trend at the University of Utah
Despite the historical Mormon affiliation, the University of Utah has been moving towards becoming more secular in recent years. This trend is evident in the declining Mormon percentage among students and the university’s efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity on campus.
Initiatives to Promote Diversity and Inclusivity
The university has implemented various initiatives to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for students of all backgrounds, including those who do not affiliate with the LDS Church. These initiatives include:
- Establishing the Office of Equity and Diversity
- Creating a new Department of Religious Studies
- Supporting student groups representing diverse religious and cultural identities
- Implementing a new diversity and inclusion curriculum for all students
Challenges and Opportunities
The University of Utah’s transition towards becoming more secular presents both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, the university must navigate the potential concerns of Mormon students and faculty who may feel less connected to the campus. On the other hand, the university has the opportunity to create a more diverse and inclusive campus community that is welcoming to all students.
Conclusion
The University of Utah’s Mormon percentage has been gradually declining, reflecting a broader trend of decreasing Mormon affiliation among younger generations. While the university has a long-standing affiliation with the LDS Church, it has taken steps towards becoming more secular and inclusive in recent years. The university continues to face challenges in balancing its historical Mormon heritage with its commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
