Belonging Is An Action

The start of a new academic year has always been exciting to me. Stony Brook is springing back to life with new faces exploring campus and old friends eager to take on new challenges. It is so special to see community in full effect.

This is a chance for us all to pause, look around, and ask ourselves “what does my community need at this moment?” Our team in the DI3 has asked ourselves this countless times in preparation for the Fall semester. In conversation with students, faculty, and staff across east, west and Southampton campuses, it became clear that we need more opportunities to be connected to our fellow Seawolves. That’s why we have put an innovative focus on resources devoted to building our community up.

This Fall, we are launching Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to provide social connection for everyone that works at Stony Brook, from the main campus and hospital out to Southampton and Manhattan. We are also directing attention to existing resources like the Ombuds office—a confidential resource who can point you to the tools and resources you need. Keep an eye out throughout the year for more opportunities to be connected.

We know that we thrive as individuals when we have a vibrant and supportive community to be a part of. When we feel connected to one another, we are better able to take on adversity, to try something innovative, and to strive for a better future.

So what does this mean for you? It’s time to dare to belong. Belonging is not just a feeling—it is an active role in the community. It is the bravery to rely on others and to be reliable.

My challenge to you this year is to reach out to this community. Study with your classmates. Eat lunch with your coworkers. Attend at least one sporting event and cheer with your neighbor.

Be an active member in the Seawolf community. Dare to Belong at Stony Brook.

Dr. Judi Brown Clarke
Vice President for Equity and Inclusion and Chief Health Equity Officer