Hidden Amongst the Crowd: Experiences of Students from Underrepresented Religions and Denominations

This research addresses the lived experiences of students from underrepresented religions and denominations at a small Catholic college. There has been increased interest in promoting inclusive practices in higher education around race, ethnicity, gender. An article published in 2012 by Bowman and Smedley, outlines the dissatisfaction of college students from marginalized religions on campuses where they do not identify with the majority religion. This research seeks to expand the research to include religion, particularly at institutions with religious affiliation.Using ethnographic research methods, including participant observations and semi-structured interviews, this research explores student understandings, experiences and practices of religion as well as the institutional involvement, support and perspective religious inclusivity. Adapting an applied framework, this research, seeks make suggestions regarding fostering a more inclusive campus environment