Dramatically Improving Students’ Sense of Belonging

In fall 2021, Long Beach City College’s (LBCC) student climate survey revealed that only 50 percent of students felt a sense of belonging at the college. In response, LBCC, a Hispanic-Serving Institution with significant populations of Black/African American (AA) and Asian/Pacific Island (PI) students, prioritized equity-centered efforts. In fall 2023, 92 percent of students reported feeling like they mattered and belonged at LBCC—a tremendous improvement. Examples of our efforts include: (1) establishing LBCC’s first Public Art Advisory Group; (2) Latinx, Filipino, Native American, Black/AA, Women, Asian/PI/Desi, and LGBTQIA+ cultural heritage month celebrations, each with a kick-off event, career information panel discussion, film screenings, and art activities; (3) reviving existing employee resource groups (e.g., Black Faculty and Staff Association) and adding groups (e.g., LGBTQIA+); (4) faculty professional development around cultural curriculum; (5) expansion of basic needs, including the first Safe Parking program at a community college campus and additional food/housing supports; and (6) launching an on-campus afterschool program.

Innovators

• Karla Aguiñiga, Manager, Art Gallery
• Eric Becerra, Director, Student Equity
• Erainia Freeman, Dean, Academic Success, Inclusion, and Support Services
• Alex Luong, Director, Title V and First-Year Experience
• Justin Mendez, Director, Basic Needs and CASA Grant