The Division of Belonging and Student Affairs (DBSA) is deeply aligned with Guided by Mission, Inspired to Change, Marquette University’s Strategic Plan for 2031. By integrating the former Division of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion with the Division of Student Affairs, DBSA is uniquely positioned to foster belonging, advance holistic student success, and strengthen campus-wide collaboration. This strategic plan outlines DBSA’s commitment to creating an engaged, inclusive, and mission-driven student experience that reflects Marquette’s Catholic, Jesuit values that include preparing students to lead, serve, and thrive in an ever-evolving world. To achieve this vision, the plan is organized around three strategic priorities: providing a transformative student experience, fostering an inclusive and supportive campus environment, and designing for excellence.

Our Mission

Grounded in our Ignatian understanding of the dignity and value of each person, the Division of Belonging and Student Affairs intentionally fosters the holistic growth of all students.  

In collaboration with key partners on- and off-campus, we design and deliver high-impact programs and learning opportunities that offer a transformative experience, promote belonging, and develop students as leaders in service for and with others. In this spirit, we also create programs and services for faculty, staff, and students that build their capacity to form an inclusive Marquette community and to Be the Difference in the world.  

Our Vision

The Division of Belonging and Student Affairs will be instrumental in fostering an inclusive, supportive campus environment in which every member of the Marquette University community feels an authentic sense of belonging. We will be recognized as leaders in the holistic development of students, grounded in Ignatian values and prepared to engage and lead in an increasingly complex world.  

Our Strategic Goals  

Provide a Transformative Student Experience: offer high-impact practices and learning opportunities that create transformative experiences for MU students. 

Foster an Inclusive, Supportive Campus Environment: cultivate an environment where all members of the Marquette University community can feel an authentic sense of belonging. 

Design for Excellence: build an effective, vibrant, and sustainable Division that enriches the Marquette student experience and fosters collaboration and a sense of community.    

Our Core Values 

Ignatian	Grounded in Catholic, Jesuit values, our work is guided by a commitment to mission-centered decision-making and priorities. We strive to help students cultivate a sense of self in relation to others, lead lives of purpose, engage in discernment, and develop a deep commitment to social justice.
Student-Centered	As educators, we center our work on the growth, development, and well-being of students. Using student development theory as our foundation, we integrate creativity, empathy, and expertise into our practice to ensure every student’s journey at Marquette is transformational.
Inclusive	We are dedicated to creating a campus environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to lead. Our work intentionally builds spaces of belonging and inclusion, ensuring that all voices are heard and celebrated within the Marquette community.
Collaborative	We believe that collaboration is fundamental to our success with students. By fostering strong partnerships with faculty, staff, and community stakeholders, we leverage shared resources and ideas to create innovative programs and initiatives that reflect Marquette’s mission and strategic goals. Together, we empower students to thrive on campus, in Milwaukee, and beyond.
Community-Minded	We cultivate a vibrant, inclusive community by fostering deep connections among students, staff, faculty, and our neighbors and partners in Milwaukee. Through intentional engagement and mutually beneficial partnerships, we enrich the student experience, promote civic responsibility, and contribute to the growth and vitality of both the campus and the city we call home.