A sense of belonging is fundamental to wellbeing, yet simply bringing people together does not guarantee meaningful connections will form. In this virtual webinar, Professor Troy Glover will draw on his research on social connection, social capital and the conditions that foster sociability to explore what it takes to create a genuine sense of belonging on campus.
The discussion will consider why belonging matters, how everyday interactions and shared experiences can help transform simply being around others into meaningful connections and what universities can do to create environments where students feel welcomed, valued and part of a community.
Agenda
11:00 a.m. | Welcome and opening remarks
11:05 a.m. | Presentation
11:50 a.m. | Audience Q & A
12:00 p.m. | Closing remarks
About the Speaker
Troy Glover is a Professor in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies at the University of Waterloo and Director of the Healthy Communities Research Network.
His research explores how communities and everyday social settings can foster social connection, belonging and social capital. Much of his recent work examines the conditions that help transform simply being around other people into meaningful interaction and connection and how communities and institutions can intentionally create environments that support healthier social lives.
Troy is also a Co-Chair of the Healthy Waterloo Learning Team, which brings together research, evidence and ideas to deepen our understanding of health and well-being and inform the initiative’s work.
About the Host
Jana is a Senior Manager, Evaluation & Accountability in Institutional Analysis & Planning, supporting evaluation and accountability activities which include indicator development and reporting, institutional survey data, survey development, and collection and reporting of socio-demographic data for the campus community.
Jana is also a Co-Chair of the Healthy Waterloo Learning Team, working alongside Troy to guide the team’s focus on research, learning and evidence-informed approaches to health and well-being.