Dear Colleagues,
Faculty, staff, administrators and alumni are the champions of every student on the Seattle University campus. It is our collective responsibility and duty to belong students, reaching out and welcoming them into our community in ways that honor their values, input and history while nurturing their sense of safety, connection and ability to contribute. We are being called to broaden and shift our perspective, charting a course for a Seattle University that embodies its Jesuit principles—embracing opportunities to bond with our students and seeing them as whole people—while building profound connections to this university.
Sense of belonging is sometimes viewed as the student seeking out and immersing themselves in a community, reinforcing the perception that all students have shared experience, skills and come prepared to integrate with their college community. Similarly, assimilation may be mistaken for belonging, limiting opportunities to create pathways to belonging that help students flourish. Belonging is created across the student experience: in the classroom and at events, in the residence halls and collegia, and during administrative interactions. Each step a Seattle University student takes during their time with us presents an opportunity to reaffirm they are accepted, valued and respected.
Viewing belonging through an equity lens challenges us to see each student from an asset-based perspective, inviting us to expand our current view and build on our commitment to inclusivity. All students bring a unique background, knowledge and experiences that contribute to enriching campus culture and our growing Seattle University community. We welcome you to join the conversation as we deepen our understanding and implement belonging into our strategic goals.
Share your thoughts, stories and ideas here.
Student Development Working Group