Belonging & Community
ODI is changing our scope to better align with the work we perform on behalf of the entire campus community. As part of this change, we transition to a new name.
Belonging & Community at UMD best reflects the fact that we interact with all of the unique identities in our community. We provide expertise and support for anyone who needs help establishing a sense of belonging and finding a nurturing community.
The new name reflects the feedback we received from the campus Belonging & Community Survey, which will continue to be a valuable, evidence-based tool in determining steps we can take to enhance belonging among our students, staff and faculty. Stay tuned for additional changes to come.
We look forward to continuing to serve the entire UMD community, adhering to the values and compassion that have always driven our work and dedicated staff.
Our units
Learn about Bias Incident Support Services
Bias Incident Support Services responds to hate-bias incidents; it also educates and reports to the campus about those incidents while providing support, guidance, expertise, and advocacy to community members.
Learn about the LGBTQ+ Equity Center
The LGBTQ+ Equity Center supports people of all gender identities, sexes and sexual orientations and develops accessible, vibrant, respectful and inclusive campus communities.
Nyumburu is Swahili for “freedom house” and has served the UMD community since 1971 as a foundation for social and intellectual interaction.
Learn about ADA accessibility at UMD
The ADA coordinator's office addresses accessibility issues and disability concerns on campus, guiding the university's efforts to move beyond compliance and toward seamless access.
Learn about the Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Education
The Office of Multi-ethnic Student Education (OMSE) offers a variety of services and programs to enhance the learning experience and promote the academic success of undergraduate students.
Learn about TerrapinSTRONG Education
TerrapinSTRONG Education introduces institutional values across the university to create a stronger commitment to community, belonging & inclusion.
I long, as does every human being, to be at home wherever I find myself.
Maya Angelou
Belonging & Community at UMD Survey
The University of Maryland conducted a comprehensive assessment of our campus in spring 2024 to measure belonging and community. This survey, conducted by consultants from Rankin Climate, aimed to capture the experiences and perceptions of our students, faculty and staff to help inform the creation of an action plan designed to improve the sense of connection at UMD. Belonging is essential for individual and community well-being, for personal, academic and professional success, and for ensuring everyone in our community can thrive.
The older I get, the more convinced I am that the space between people who are trying their best to understand each other is hallowed ground.
Fred Rogers
If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships — the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together, in the same world, at peace.
Belonging & Community News
Accessibility resources for instructors
As ADA coordinator Emily Singer Lucio announced last week, we are sharing accessibility resources every week through the spring to help you get ready for the Title II final rule deadline.First, let’s get situated with some background:Read about the ADA ...
Volunteer for a Universities Studying Slavery Conference committee
The University of Maryland is honored to host the upcoming Universities Studying Slavery (USS) Conference from October 22 through October 25, 2026. This event represents a vital moment for The 1856 Project as they engage in critical dialogue regarding the ...
Launching today: BISS Free Speech series!
Exciting news: our Bias Incident Support Services (BISS) team is launching a video series on free speech and expression. We’ll be sharing a conversation between BISS Director b.a. medina and a respected partner on a free speech-related topic every other ...
Belonging & Community Events
28th Annual Lavender Celebration of Graduates and Award Winners
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to - Stamp Atrium
- LGBTQ+ Equity Center
- Events
Join the LGBTQ+ Equity Center on Monday, May 18th from 5:00-7:00pm in the Stamp Union Atrium for the 28th Annual Lavender Celebration of Graduates and Award Winners! This gathering is a chance for everyone—regardless of their level of involvement in the ...
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to - McKeldin Mall
- LGBTQ+ Equity Center
- Events
Join the LGBTQ+ Equity Center and students, faculty and staff from across campus for our third annual BIG QUEER PHOTO on Friday, May 1st, 2026 from 11:00am-1:00pm on the McKeldin Mall Steps!!! 🏳️🌈🐢🏳️⚧️We invite the campus ...
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to - Marie Mount Hall, room 0108
- TerrapinSTRONG Education
- Events
Take a study break to enjoy good food, engaging discussion, and a relaxed space where you can decompress alongside fellow grad students.
Campus Events
Report an incident
The University of Maryland is committed to creating an inclusive and respectful campus for all students, faculty and staff. If you have been impacted by hate, bias, intimidation, sexual misconduct or discrimination, you can file a report with the units here.
You may also contact UMPD by calling:
Emergency: 911 or 301-405-3333 - Mobile Phone (AT&T or Verizon Wireless) #3333
Non-Emergency: 301-405-3555