Beyond Buzzwords: Real Strategies for Belonging in Higher Education During Times of Uncertainty and Civil Unrest
Morning Breakout Session II
In an increasingly interconnected world, the principles of community, collaboration, and belonging have become fundamental to the success of higher education institutions. Join us in this vital conversation as we envision a future where every member of the academic community feels valued, connected, and inspired to contribute to a shared mission of excellence and equity in education. By sharing success stories and actionable strategies, this presentation aims to empower attendees to implement effective collaborative approaches within their institutions, ultimately strengthening the educational experience for all. Together, we can unlock the full potential of higher education by harnessing the Power of Us, showcasing the richness of community, collaboration, and belonging during times of uncertainty and civil unrest. Topics and examples that will be discussed will include our Dartmouth “Commitment to Care” initiatives, STEM-belonging initiatives, employee resource networks, “Freedom of Expression” policies and campus community dialogue efforts. Participants will leave with a blueprint on how to build and cultivate a few of these initiatives on their campus.
Dr. Rae Hall
Dr. Rae is currently the Director of Pluralism and Leadership at Dartmouth. Dr. Rae earned her Bachelor of Science in Philosophy from Oneonta University, her Master of Science in Education Administration and Policy Studies from the University at Albany, and her Doctorate of Education in Executive Leadership from St. John Fisher University. Dr. Hall’s research focused on the immigration executive order, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), and the coping strategies Jamaican DACA recipients were using as they transitioned with President Donald Trump’s 2017 DACA policy change announcement. Dr. Rae's 20 years of professional experience includes residential life management, program development, organizational restructuring, professional development, creation of learning outcomes and assessment, sustaining important partnerships among campus areas to promote collaboration, community engagement, and student involvement. Dr. Rae is a social justice advocate for immigration, education reform, and food/housing insecurity.

