06/10/2026
The Hilyard Center staff presented on the role of food in fostering community and belonging. Their session, “Belonging Isn’t Something We Stumble Into: When Food Is More Than a Meal,” explored the growing challenges of isolation and loneliness and highlighted research demonstrating how shared food experiences strengthen connections, build community, and promote a sense of belonging. Research shows that students who report higher levels of belonging are more likely to be academically engaged, both in the classroom and through the use of campus support resources. Increased belonging is also associated with higher student retention rates, underscoring the importance of creating intentional opportunities for connection and community on campus.