Strategies for Fostering Belonging in the College Union

By , Posted on Bulletin, Feature, Health and Wellness, Leadership, Organizational Leadership, Role of the College Union

Editor’s Note: This is the third part of a year-long, four-part series entitled The State of the College Union that looks to analyze the most current and affecting issues facing ACUI’s members. The third part in the series, written by Kat Paynter-Fanning and Adriane Reilly, once again focuses on a significant issue facing both student affairs and higher education. Fostering belonging in the college union during a time of national divisiveness has never been more important, and in this examination of the challenge Reilly and Paynter-Fanning examine both the physical, design aspects, along with the social and cultural opportunities, for union professionals to meet this challenge.

Introduction

In times of societal upheaval or uncertainty, the importance of having a strong sense of belonging cannot be overstated. The previous two parts of the State of College Union series have made it obvious that individuals and institutions are currently grappling with a variety of challenges on their campuses: from economic and staffing challenges, political polarization, supporting students and staff who feel isolated, mental health challenges, and so many more important and sensitive issues. Regardless of the issue, individuals often find comfort, resilience, and even motivation through their connections with others. Individuals within a community that focus on fostering a strong sense of belonging have a stronger sense of security and identity, can navigate adversity with greater resilience, and are less likely to have feelings of isolation and anxiety, research has continued to show. With the current challenges facing ourselves, our students, our institutions, and our society, fostering a sense of belonging remains a crucial endeavor. In times of crisis and challenge, communities that nurture inclusivity, support, and understanding emerge stronger. Given its rich history of community building, the college union is poised to assume the responsibility of building stronger communities, safer spaces, and resilient individuals facing today’s challenges. 

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Authors

  • Adriane Reilly, Ed.D., is the associate director of Sykes Student Union at West Chester University. Reilly’s work experiences include student activities, student unions, fraternity and sorority life, international student services, and career services. Her dissertation focused on the role of the college union in fostering a sense of belonging on a college campus. She believes passionately in the role of the college union and how student employment in the union contributes to career readiness.

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  • Katheryn Paynter

    Dr. Katheryn Paynter, the 2023 recipient of ACUI’s Daniel M. Maxwell Dissertation of the Year Award, is assistant director of Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi’s University Center. She received her Doctor of Education in educational leadership from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi’s College of Education and Human Development, a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Texas–San Antonio, and a Bachelor of Science in environmental science from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. Paynter attended I-LEAD® as a student, served on the Annual Conference grad staff in 2015, has served on several Region II Conference Planning Teams, and is currently the Region II student involvement coordinator. In 2022, she received Region II's William H. Smith Outstanding Professional Award. This article is based on her award-winning dissertation, “An Exploration of Belonging Through Student Union Employment.”

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