Belonging

Definition

Belonging is a multi-faceted experience occurring when individuals are provided a secure environment that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences, allowing each person to thrive authentically. 

Commitment Statement

Ferris State University embraces and is committed to cultivating an environment of belonging. As part of the institution's fabric, the work of belonging is the shared responsibility of students, faculty, staff, administrators and stakeholders.

Initiatives

Initiative 1: Create and sustain a University environment of access, inclusion, and representation.

Initiative 2: Develop, revise, and implement trainings, programs, opportunities, and spaces that elevate safety, belonging, and connection within the University and its surrounding community.

Initiative 3: Center and incorporate belonging in teaching and learning.

Belonging Key Strategic Targets

INCREASE THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS WHO “FEEL LIKE A PART OF THE COMMUNITY AT THIS INSTITUTION” (AS INDICATED BY NSSE*) FROM 74 PERCENT TO 80 PERCENT.

INCREASE THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS WHO UNDERSTAND “PEOPLE OF OTHER BACKGROUNDS (ECONOMIC, RACIAL/ ETHNIC, POLITICAL, RELIGIOUS, NATIONALITY, ETC.)” (AS INDICATED BY NSSE*) FROM 61 PERCENT TO 70 PERCENT.

INCREASE ENROLLMENT OF UNDERREPRESENTED MINORITY (URM) STUDENTS BY 2 PERCENT.

INCREASE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ENROLLMENT TO 300.

* as indicated by the National Survey of Student Engagement

***Targets as of September 1, 2024***

SHARE HIGHLIGHTS OF BELONGING WORK BEING DONE