Feeling Included: The Role and Importance of Sense of Belonging on Student Success

A student's sense of belonging - their perceived belief of feeling included and valued within their community - is a key aspect of student success within the higher education setting. This sense of feeling included can be influenced by many factors, including students' involvement within the campus community, relationships formed in their academic and social activities, and their perceptions of their overall environment. As many elements can impact student retention and degree completion, it is vital to recognize the influence of belongingness on student motivation toward their higher education-related achievements. This one-hour interactive presentation integrates research, theory, and audience engagement to discuss the importance of one’s sense of belonging within higher education and how each campus community stakeholder has a unique responsibility in creating a supportive and inclusive institutional environment.