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Belonging Enhances Learning

Office of Belonging, Equity, and Impact

Inclusion and belonging aren’t just values; they’re essential tools for an exceptional educational experience. That’s because transformative learning is only possible when every student feels seen, respected, and valued.

This belief is reflected in the work of Rowland Hall’s Office of Belonging, Equity, and Impact, which helps cultivate a vibrant community where everyone feels a deep sense of belonging and connection. The team also leads the Center for Community Impact, designed to empower individuals to make positive social change.

Our Work In Action

Watch the above video for more information on our research-backed approach to belonging.

The work of Rowland Hall’s Office of Belonging, Equity, and Impact happens across every level of school life. 

 

For Students

  • Diverse perspectives are embedded in our curriculum, from the Beginning School to the Upper School.
  • Student affinity spaces bring together those with common identifiers or shared experiences and all students learn how to create a culture of inclusion and belonging.
  • Upper School students lead learning opportunities for peers within and beyond Rowland Hall, including an annual conference for Utah high schoolers.
  • Leadership development is provided through numerous engagement and outreach opportunities.
Rowland Hall Lower School students join hands during an affinity group activity.
Rowland Hall Upper School students pose together beneath a heart-shaped holiday light display.
Rowland Hall faculty stand before a conference presentation on culturally responsive teaching.
Rowland Hall faculty and staff participate in a panel discussion inside the school library.

For Faculty and Staff

  • Learning groups make space for team members to learn how to advance belonging at Rowland Hall.
  • Ongoing initiatives are underway to recruit and retain diverse faculty and staff.
  • Team members and students attend conferences and workshops, including those organized by the National Association of Independent Schools and Northwest Association of Independent Schools.
  • Opportunities to collaborate with community partners further support team members’ ongoing efforts to create transformative, authentic learning experiences for students.

For Our School Community

  • We celebrate diverse traditions and cultures, including in the classroom and during community gatherings.
  • Educational programs, including our annual MLK Week, promote dialogue and support the school’s commitment to equity and inclusion.
  • Regular assessment of institutional practices and procedures ensures inclusion and belonging for all community members.
  • We regularly share student-community partner collaborations to illustrate the impact of working together toward community-building goals.
Performers take the stage during Rowland Hall’s MLK Week assembly on justice and joy.
Rowland Hall parents pose together during the school’s Multicultural Festival celebration.

Belonging at Rowland Hall

At Rowland Hall, belonging is intentionally cultivated. Through community practices, access, and representation, we create an environment where students and families feel connected and supported.

A Rowland Hall Upper School student hugs a younger student during a joyful campus moment.
Rowland Hall students and guest performers gather together in a campus hallway.
Two Rowland Hall Lower School students smile with arms around each other on campus.
Three Rowland Hall Lower School students smile and play together in a campus hallway.
A Rowland Hall student and parent explore cultural displays at the Multicultural Festival.

32

students lead 20 affinity groups in the middle and upper schools

These student-led spaces foster belonging for those with shared identities and experiences.

35%

of students identify as people of color

We believe everyone benefits from learning within a community shaped by diverse experiences and perspectives.

25%

of students receive tuition assistance

Tuition assistance ensures students from a wide range of backgrounds can belong and thrive at Rowland Hall.

86%

of families report feeling a strong sense of belonging at our school

We embrace community and connection because strong relationships help us all learn and thrive.

Three guest speakers sit onstage at Rowland Hall during a community panel discussion under colorful lights.

Meet The Team

Dr. Chandani Patel

Dr. Chandani Patel

Director of Equity and Inclusion
School: 801-924-2946
Ryan Hoglund

Ryan Hoglund

Director of Community Engagement and Impact
School: 801-924-2988
Liz Ellison

Liz Ellison

Beginning School Equity Coordinator
Hannah Ruske

Hannah Ruske

Lower School Equity Coordinator
Sam Thomas ’16

Sam Thomas ’16

Middle School Equity Coordinator
Dr. Lydia Jackson

Dr. Lydia Jackson

Upper School Equity Coordinator