Division for Belonging

Welcome to the Division for Belonging

Our work is deeply rooted in and actively supports Saint Mary’s mission, as well as the College’s Core Values: learning, community, faith and spirituality, and justice. We are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where all students, faculty, and staff can flourish, while fostering a culture of academic and institutional excellence. 

The mission of the Division for Belonging is to educate, inspire, and equip the Saint Mary’s community to thrive and contribute meaningfully in an increasingly diverse and global society through intentional collaboration and robust resources. Our division proactively addresses the evolving needs of all members of our dynamic campus community. 

Saint Mary’s College: Advancing Our Catholic Mission

Founded by the Sisters of the Holy Cross in 1844, Saint Mary’s College has long been a leader in women’s education, fostering a community where intellectual vigor, aesthetic appreciation, religious sensibility, and social responsibility thrive. The Catholic identity and mission of the College are the foundation of our commitment to human dignity, justice, and the common good. 

 

Since our founding, Saint Mary’s has expanded access to higher education, creating pathways for generations of students to learn, to lead, and to serve. That spirit of access continues today as we welcome students from all backgrounds and experiences, ensuring that everyone who seeks to learn has the opportunity to thrive here.

 

The work of the College expresses our belief that each person is created in the image and likeness of God. We honor the dignity of every person and offer respect, belonging, and opportunity to every member of our community.  As a community, we acknowledge our interdependence and commit ourselves to pursuing the common good and peace, ensuring that every member of our community is valued and empowered. Called to read the signs of the times, interpret them in the light of the Gospel, and respond to people in need, we ensure that Saint Mary’s is a place where all can thrive.

 

Informed by the Catholic tradition and Holy Cross charism,  Saint Mary’s is a place where students discover and develop their talents, preparing them to make a meaningful impact in the world. Our mission compels us to meet the complex needs of contemporary life. Through our institutional values of justice and community, we continue to build a Saint Mary’s experience that is both transformative and true to our founding values.

  • Office for Student Empowerment Office for Student Empowerment

    The Office for Student Empowerment (OSE) ensures that every student at Saint Mary's College has the voice, agency, and resources to fully engage in their college experience. 
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    Office for Student Empowerment
  • LGBTQ+ Center LGBTQ+ Center

    An inclusive and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community and allies, offering educational opportunities, events, and a destination where you can connect with others.
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    LGBTQ+ Center
  • Kessler Scholars Program Kessler Scholars Program

    Provides financial, academic, and social support for first-generation students. Saint Mary’s is part of the Kessler Scholars Collaborative, a national network of member institutions transforming the undergraduate experience for first-generation students while creating a community of rising first-generation leaders. 
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    Kessler Scholars Program

Office of Multicultural and International Student Services

The Office of Multicultural and International Student Services exists to celebrate and support the rich cultural backgrounds and international communities represented in  our campus community. We serve all students by fostering opportunities for connection, education, and global engagement. Our programs and services are open to everyone and are designed to cultivate understanding, respect, and belonging across the full spectrum of cultural identities and international backgrounds represented at Saint Mary’s College.

Office of Harassment Education and Response

The Office for Harassment Education and Response is critical in fostering a campus environment where all students, faculty, and staff are treated with respect and protected from discrimination, harassment, and violence. The office collaborates with campus partners by responding to Title IX claims and reports of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation with care and integrity in compliance with federal law, state law, and College policies. The office leads education, prevention, and training initiatives that strengthen our shared understanding and commitment to a safe, supportive environment. Guided by the Catholic principles of human dignity, justice, and the common good, the office ensures that every community member has equitable access to education in an environment free from harm.

In case of an emergency, please call Campus Safety at (574) 284-5000 or dial 911.