Cultivating Academic Belonging

Cultivating Academic Belonging to Promote Student Mental Health and Well-Being

Data from a range of sources indicates that high numbers of college students are experiencing mental health challenges. In this session, instructors will view a video case study telling the story of an U-M alumn that invites them to consider how a lack of academic belonging affects student mental health and well-being. Participants then explore how structural and interpersonal issues exacerbate mental health challenges for students, and discuss role-appropriate approaches faculty can take to cultivate academic belonging and proactively promote their students’ mental health and well-being.

The session is appropriate for faculty, graduate student instructors, and academic leaders. The session can be offered in person or virtually in 60, 90, or 120 minutes versions. It will be available throughout the academic year.

**The video case study in the session contains strong language, challenges related to mental and well-being, and references to racism and Indigenous genocide and erasure.

In this session, participants will:

  • Reflect on a range of structural and interpersonal issues that exacerbate mental health challenges for students.
  • Begin to consider how cultivating academic belonging in your classroom might proactively promote student mental health and well-being. 
What people have said about :
[I] really appreciated the student story. [It was] helpful to hear about the kinds of experiences students have in the classroom and at the university.
The case study/theater piece was really effective in conveying the bureaucratic and interpersonal hurdles students face, for sure. I always appreciate the opportunity to talk with colleagues.
I think the video was very powerful and set up the discussion. The workshop also allowed me to meet with people interested in the topic for diverse reasons and exchange ideas.
I always enjoy the CRLT Players - it's always impressive.
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