Navigating the Higher Education Landscape to Foster a Culture of Belonging

Abstract

Abstract Higher education plays a crucial role in shaping the leaders and innovators of tomorrow, but for many students, achieving success at the postsecondary level must become more accessible. The relationship between politics and higher education is clear, as government policy choices determine institutional changes that undeniably have a significant impact on educational access and attainment. Current political actions undermining efforts toward diversity, equity, and inclusion are increasing and negatively affecting higher education institutions, including Southern Regional University (SRU). As a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), SRU has been dedicated to implementing policies that improve student success rates. The project’s goal was to retain and attract a diverse and highly skilled faculty and staff, fostering a strong sense of belonging among all university members. In the process, it confronted the ongoing influence of the changing political landscape on higher education outcomes for marginalized groups. Ultimately, it was affected by the systemic inequities exacerbated by our nation’s racial bias, which hinders efforts to establish a more inclusive society. (For confidentiality, pseudonyms are used throughout the capstone)