The transformational tapestry model is grounded in the literature on campus diversity initiatives and takes into account five aspects of campus culture:

1. Access and retention
2. Research and scholarship
3. Inter-group and intragroup relations
4. Curriculum and pedagogy
5. Service

Each of these aspects of campus culture are integrated and shape the campus "climate."

The Transformational Tapestry Model goes beyond assessment; it provides a framework to guide the development of action steps designed to transform a campus culture into one that maximizes equity.

1Smith, D., Gerbrick, G., Figueroa, M., Watkins, G., Levitan, T., Moore, L., Merchant, P., Beliak, H., & Gigueroa, B. (1997). Diversity works: The emerging picture of how students benefit. Washington, D.C.: Association of American Colleges and Universities