US Air Force Academy Reports Improved Climate

The US Air Force Academy recently reported some of the results from its 2009 climate survey.  The survey is similar to those given to other military units in order to assess everything from racial relations to quality of life.

The superintendent, LtGen Mike Gould, is reportedly focused on instilling an atmosphere of respect for human dignity, and he has seen some success:

In many ways, the climate has shifted toward greater respect for all Airmen here regardless of their race, gender, religious beliefs or socioeconomic backgrounds. 

“Cadets are feeling more accepting of groups with different backgrounds,” General Gould said. “Fewer cadets feel pressured to be involved in religious activities than in the past. People are free to worship here however they want, but we’ve emphasized that it isn’t your job to force your beliefs on somebody else, and we’re making progress in that area.”

Interestingly, the Colorado Springs Gazette reported, almost defensively, that USAFA was not releasing specific results of the survey, as did a local news channel.  However, the Colorado Springs Independent apparently did get access to those results, and reported the academy “still faces religion and gender-bias problems.”  It is unclear what result would be required for the Independent to declare that there were “no” problems.