³Ô¹ÏÁÔÆæ to Hold Third Annual Night of Belonging
³Ô¹ÏÁÔÆæ (³Ô¹ÏÁÔÆæ) will hold its third annual Night of Belonging on Tuesday, March 31, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Shannon Center. Hosted by the Schmitt Scholars and Office of Family and Community Engagement, the event is intended to connect the entire Saint Xavier community for a night where everyone belongs. Featuring coloring, art, bags, sports, games, and food from various cultures, the event will bring together ³Ô¹ÏÁÔÆæ students, faculty and staff for camaraderie and fun.
"Night of Belonging is a powerful reminder of who we are as the Saint Xavier community. The event creates a space where every student, staff and faculty member can feel valued, heard and truly included. Especially as we approach final exams, it offers a meaningful opportunity to pause, connect and simply enjoy being together. It's more than just a fun-filled evening -- it's a celebration of belonging and the strength we find in one another," said Manal Kanaan, Ed.D., director of high-impact practices.
The Schmitt Scholars and Office of Family and Community Engagement hope to instill a sense of inclusion and community along with a connection to ³Ô¹ÏÁÔÆæ's core values within those who attend the event. Attendees are encouraged to bring their friends and colleagues and mingle to meet new people.
"Being a part of the Arthur J. Schmitt Scholars Program and the Mental Health Project, we wanted to create a space for our students, faculty and staff from all backgrounds and abilities to come together. On this day, we will focus not on our differences but what we have in common and learn from one another. Please join us and experience fun, inclusion and community the ³Ô¹ÏÁÔÆæ way!" said Kathryn Kina, student.
The Schmitt Scholars and Office of Family and Community Engagement hope to host the Night of Belonging for years to come, creating a safe place for the ³Ô¹ÏÁÔÆæ community to come together and be themselves.
"The overall message of belonging and making students, faculty and staff at ³Ô¹ÏÁÔÆæ truly feel seen is a value that can be built on for decades and is essential to the heart of the University. Last year, students enjoyed conversing with professors, laughing and eating. Many expressed gratitude for having an event to meet new people," added Kina.