A Qualitative Descriptive Study Exploring Non-LDS Faculty and Staff Experiences

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive research study was to explore and describe how non-LDS full-time faculty and staff describe working and living in a predominately Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) environment and whether the environment informs their social identity in the workplace at a public regional comprehensive university located in Utah. Three theoretical frameworks were used: Social Identity Theory, Hatch’s Cultural Dynamics Model, and LDS core beliefs. Through interviews and participant research diaries the researcher explored the following research questions: How do non-LDS full-time faculty and staff describe ways that the LDS organizational culture informs their social identity, and how do non-LDS full-time faculty and staff describe ways that the LDS religio-culture norms are manifested in an organization? The sample included eight faculty and five staff. Using thematic analysis, the researcher identified one main theme for RQ1, LDS organizational culture does not inform social identity, and four sub-themes. The four sub-themes included: (a) aspects of identity transitions to the background, (b) identity is navigated within the organization, (c) identity is supported by individuals within the organization, and (d) identity is integrated through the organization’s mission and values. The researcher also identified one main theme for RQ2: LDS religio-cultural norms are manifested within the organization. The three sub-themes included: (a) LDS religio-cultural norms are manifested as artifacts, (b) assumptions; and (c) lack of inclusion. The results from this study will help university officials create inclusive work environments.