Penn State Student Affairs announced the new Center for Social Change and Belonging on September 18.

The center is part of the university’s effort toward fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging among the community. By connecting already-existing initiatives toward this goal, the center will enable Penn State to further create change.

“We are excited to better align resources in support of our student communities, particularly related to equity-minded education, alongside resource connection and support,” Student Affairs Assistant Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Brian Patchcoski said in a release. “The Center for Social Change and Belonging is positioned to raise up and augment the work our affinity and identity-based centers in Student Affairs, alongside our campus partners, while also filling gaps that students experience as they navigate various resources.”

The center will focus on improving student success and leadership opportunities and empowering students and faculty alike to consider equity in everyday situations.

In an effort to bridge the gaps between organizations, the Center for Social Change and Belonging will support the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility Ambassadors program in Residence Life and the Community and Belonging Educators. The center will also put forth effort into student organizations, Greek life, and more.

Marcelius Braxton, who has more than 15 years of experience in providing access to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, has been named the inaugural director of the center.

“I’m so happy to be joining Penn State as the director for social change and belonging,” Braxton said. “I think it’s important to acknowledge the hardworking administrators, faculty and staff who have been doing this work for years, and I’m grateful for the foundation that they’ve established.”

More information about the new Center for Social Change and Belonging can be found on the center’s website.