The Data Community of Practice exists to:

• Foster collaboration among data providers, users, and decision-makers across the university.
• Increase data literacy and comfort using data to tell stories and guide action.
• Promote transparency and shared understanding of data definitions, systems, and governance.
• Support professional development through peer learning, workshops, and shared resources.
• Encourage innovation in data visualization, analysis, and communication.

Our community is built on the principles of:

• Connecting People: We build relationships across departments to share knowledge and strengthen collaboration.
• Fostering a Data Culture: We model integrity, curiosity, and collaboration to make thoughtful data use part of everyday work.
• Communication & Onboarding: We make data approachable through clear communication and supportive onboarding.
• Data Literacy: We help everyone feel confident understanding and using data to make informed decisions.
• Continuous Learning & Innovation: We stay curious, creative, and open to new tools, ideas, and approaches.
• Ethical Stewardship: We handle data responsibly, protecting privacy and promoting fairness and transparency.

Together, we aim to build a culture of shared understanding and informed decision-making.

The Data Community of Practice is coordinated by a working group of data professionals and practitioners from across the university.

Our members include staff members from:

• Planning, Analytics, and Institutional Research
• Student Affairs departments
• Academic programs
• Student Success Analytics
• JMU Libraries
• Information Technology
• and other administrative and academic units

We welcome all who are curious, creative, and committed to learning together.