Measuring the State of Belonging on College Campuses
KNow Research is so proud to partner with Paskill and Lexicon & Line to better understand how campus leaders view one of the most influential—yet often intangible—factors in student success: Belonging.
The survey was announced at this year’s eduWeb Summit, where leaders from all three agencies discussed their shared commitment to helping institutions create more inclusive, emotionally resonant student experiences. They emphasized that belonging—or “fit”—is not just a feel-good concept, but a decisive factor in whether a student chooses a school, stays enrolled, and ultimately earns their degree. The initiative launches with a short survey for higher education professionals, inviting them to share how their institutions are currently addressing student belonging and where critical gaps may exist.
This effort builds on the Belonging Benchmark—a research-backed tool developed by Lexicon & Line and KNow Research and piloted with nearly 900 students—as well as Paskill’s pioneering research surveying more than 200 first-generation college students on how well institutional websites are meeting their needs.
Research already shows that a strong sense of belonging is linked to academic achievement, career readiness, and long-term well-being. But the collaborating agencies believe the industry still lacks consistent data on how belonging is being prioritized—and perceived—by those shaping student experiences.
Watch the study’s sponsors discuss the importance – and impact – of the work HERE
“What I love about this joint effort,” said Katrina Noelle of KNow Research, “is that all three of our agencies share a deep belief: belonging is evergreen—and it’s essential.”
“Belonging—or fit, as I still call it—isn’t just key to student success; it’s often what leads them to choose a school in the first place,” said Jim Paskill of Paskill. “It may feel intangible, but without it, retention becomes a real challenge. We have to understand what truly makes students feel they belong.”
“Belonging is a key driver of recruitment, retention, and student success,” said Mary Johnstun of Lexicon & Line. “It’s not just about getting students in the door. It’s about helping them feel they’ve found a place they can thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.”
The survey, which takes just a few minutes to complete, is open now. Participants will receive the full report of findings—an effort the three organizations hope will offer actionable insight and spark deeper conversations about building student-centered environments, from enrollment marketing to student experience and retention.
Help shape the future of student belonging. Take the survey now.
