The Californer - New Book Calls 'Sense of Belonging' the Missing Link in Student Success

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Belonging is more than a good feeling--it may be education's most powerful institutional effectiveness and student success strategy!

HOUSTON - Californer -- Do Good Work proudly announces the release of the newest book, Students' Sense of Belonging and Involvement in College: Key Insights from Research for Practice, by internationally recognized scholar, speaker, and author Dr. Terrell Strayhorn, published by Bloomsbury Academic.

At a time when colleges and universities continue to confront challenges related to student retention, engagement, mental health, and graduation, the book offers a timely examination of one of higher education's most influential yet often underestimated factors: students' sense of belonging.

Drawing on decades of research and scholarship, the volume examines how academic and co-curricular involvement contributes to students' sense of belonging and, in turn, supports learning, persistence, well-being, and educational success. The book bridges theory and practice with evidence-informed insights that help institutional leaders, faculty members, student affairs professionals, and researchers foster more inclusive campus environments.

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"Too often, we ask whether students fit into college," said Strayhorn. "A better question is whether colleges are intentionally creating the conditions that help students feel seen, valued, respected, safe, supported, and connected. Belonging is not simply a feeling—it is a foundational condition for learning, engagement, and success."

The book arrives as colleges across the United States seek research-based strategies to improve student outcomes and strengthen campus communities. Connecting scholarship with practical application, Students' Sense of Belonging and Involvement in College offers actionable guidance for institutions seeking to strengthen student engagement and create environments where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

The publication reflects Strayhorn's longstanding commitment to advancing research on college students and educational justice. His scholarship has influenced educators, policymakers, and institutional leaders worldwide, helping reshape conversations about student success through the lens of belonging.

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"This book is ultimately an invitation," Strayhorn added. "If we want students to persist, achieve, and flourish, we must move beyond simply admitting them to our institutions. We must intentionally cultivate communities where they experience authentic belonging and have meaningful opportunities to become involved, whether on- or off-campus."

Published by Bloomsbury Academic, the book is intended for higher education leaders, faculty members, graduate students, researchers, student affairs practitioners, policymakers, and others committed to improving the college experience through evidence-based practice.

The book is available now through Bloomsbury Academic and major online booksellers.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Terrell Lamont Strayhorn is a leading scholar whose research focuses on belonging, leadership, and organizational culture. Founder of Do Good Work Enterprises, he serves as Interim Dean of the School of Education and Professor at Virginia Union University.