Utica University's F. Eugene Romano Hall

Belonging at Utica

At Utica University, we are committed to creating a working and learning environment where all people feel supported.

Following our institutional values, we work to support diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences in an equitable, respectful, and inclusive environment, while promoting freedom of expression and encouraging civil discourse.

Our Office of Community, Belonging, and Engagement is dedicated to cultivating civility and decency for all individuals, both in and out of the classroom. We do this through programs and opportunities that foster inclusive excellence in education, personal and professional development, and community building for all members of Utica University.

Principles on Expression Upcoming Programs

Programs and Resources

Join the Collaborative

The Collaborative is an inclusive group on campus open to students, faculty, and staff looking to make a difference and spearhead efforts to create a more welcoming Utica University for all. Members come together to hear updates from University leadership; discuss and share current news on campus; learn about upcoming events and professional development opportunities; and work together to identify gaps and opportunities for open discussion and engagement.

Collaborative members are unofficial ambassadors for the Office of Community, Belonging, and Engagement, often volunteering for programs like our annual Unity Walk and the Excellence in Fostering Community and Belonging Awards ceremony and banquet. Meetings are held monthly.

Major Events

Belonging Week | Join us for a week of community and celebration! Participate in programs designed to foster stronger relationships among University community members – most notably the Unity Walk
Unity Walk | Dating back to the 1990s, the Unity Walk is a proactive way to showcase our solidarity as Utica University members. Join us for a celebrational rally out on Duffy Plaza and a unified march around campus.
Bookish Club | Read and swap new ideas and perspectives. Come together in the library to read short stories or personal essays before open discussion.
Reframing the Narrative | Expert faculty and guest speakers present on intersectional experiences, current socio-political events, and more.
Community Excellence Awards

Want to get involved?

Email Kira Maddox, Director of Community, Belonging, Engagement, and Title VI, at klmaddox@utica.edu.

Upcoming Events

To honor the campus community members working diligently to create a culture of support and respect, the Collaborative presents the annual Utica University Excellence in Fostering Community & Belonging Awards. These awards recognize the committed individuals who go above and beyond to ensure Utica University is a welcoming place for all, through their kindness, leadership, and commitment to their peers and colleagues.

Award winners, chosen by the Collaborative after a campus wide nomination process, do one of more of the following:

Create a supportive and inclusive campus climate through personal leadership, intentional engagement, collaboration, etc.
Are an outspoken advocate to ensure Utica University remains a working and learning environment free from bigotry and injustice.
Work to instill topics and themes of equitable access, mutual respect, and inclusive participation into institutional frameworks (curriculum, policies, procedures, etc.)
Demonstrate a commitment to furthering one’s own or others’ knowledge by hosting or participating in various educational programs, panels, webinars, etc. (on or off campus)
Are an active advocate in the greater City of Utica community through volunteerism and/or other service.
Carry out other exemplary work critical to creating a culturally aware and inclusive climate at Utica University.

Nominations for the 2026 Awards will be available later in the semester. Check back for more details.

We work to maintain a culture of dignity and respect for all University community members, and encourage you to connect with us if you have a concern. The following resources are available:

Title VI
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in federally funded programs. Please visit utica.edu/TitleVI to learn more.

Title IX
Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 was the first comprehensive federal law to prohibit sex discrimination against students and employees of educational institutions. For more information, visit utica.edu/TitleIX

Other Concerns

Students - If you have a concern or complaint regarding accommodations, employee interactions, FERPA, Code of Conduct violations, etc., a number of resources and directions are available at utica.edu/student-complaint-process.
Employees and personnel - Concerns and complaints are handled by the Office of Human Resources. Please reach out at utica.edu/hr.