We recently introduced the Belonging Roadmap, which is designed to allow our work to evolve with sustained, measurable outcomes. While its Steering Committee provides direction and coordination, the foundation of the roadmap is the work happening across our community: creating a shared definition of what belonging means at Lehigh, tracking our progress, connecting people to resources, strengthening inclusive teaching and developing a network of community members who can help advance this work over time.
We previously shared the structure of the Steering Committee guiding this effort. We want to provide an update on the key bodies of work that make up the Roadmap and the progress underway in each area.
What the Roadmap Includes
Shared Definition: One element of the Belonging Roadmap is a shared definition of belonging designed to continually evolve. The Steering Committee is developing a draft institutional definition of belonging, informed by current literature and research. The goal is to integrate this as a permanent conversation in Lehigh’s culture. Campus stakeholders will be engaged for feedback and will be key in incorporating this into campus culture.
Dashboard: A new dashboard will track meaningful metrics tied to our progress, aligned with the university's broader strategic planning dashboard. Resources will be directly connected to metrics where appropriate.
Campus-Wide Inventory of Resources: The Steering Committee is compiling a comprehensive inventory of belonging-related resources and initiatives across campus. The inventory is informed by inclusive pedagogy frameworks spanning race, gender, disability, mental health, nationality, socioeconomic status and first-generation student experience. The goal is a clear, accessible, one-page reference so the community can easily find existing support and programming and refer others to appropriate resources.
Fellows Program: A fellowship model is being finalized this fall, with recruitment to follow in the spring, creating a pipeline of dedicated community members who will help guide this effort. Fellows will receive tiered training covering foundational belonging concepts, mediation skills and more. The model is designed to ensure sustained participation over time.
Inclusive Pedagogy: A working group is developing frameworks to support inclusive teaching practices, with campus experts being invited to contribute. There is a slate of programming planned, including a disability-focused series and a broader workshop series, both scheduled for the spring semester. The Inspiring the Future Makers strategy will help guide resource allocation in support of these efforts.
Advisory Body: Included in the Roadmap's outlook is the continued alignment of our community advisory structures. As was previously shared, the Community Impact Committee (CIC) is currently operating in a modified structure of the Council for Equity and Community (CEC). Moving forward, we will be reassessing how this body will help advise, amplify and inform our ongoing belonging and climate initiatives. As operational details evolve, we will keep the campus community updated.
The Belonging Roadmap is an ongoing commitment to creating a community in which every person can feel seen, supported and connected. Its success will depend on the entire community. We invite you to participate in the development of this work by staying engaged and offering feedback. Together, we can turn our shared commitment to belonging into meaningful and lasting change across Lehigh.
Dr. Donald A. Outing
Vice President for Equity and Community
The Belonging Roadmap Steering Committee
