Universities as Civic Ecologies: A Quantitative Study of Institutional Logics and Civic Engagement Predictors

• In Event: Virtual Poster Session
  In Virtual iPresentation Only: SIG-Democratic Citizenship in Education Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

Amid concerns about declining democratic participation among young adults, this study examines how institutional contexts shape civic engagement among U.S. college seniors. Previous research is notably scarce in exploring how campus experiences and networks influence engagement disparities and how higher education can address these gaps amid waning trust in democracy. Using data from the 2023 HERI College Senior Survey and 2019 CIRP Freshman Survey (n=2,198), hierarchical regression analyses identify which social and educational factors most strongly predict civic engagement and affect disparities. Results show peer political dialogue, faculty mentorship, and career-oriented civic purpose are the strongest predictors, explaining 45.3% of variance. These findings highlight the need for actionable strategies across diverse student populations and political contexts.

Author

• Ainslee Jacgdish Preciado, University of California - Los Angeles