Identity, Placemaking and Belonging

Georgia State University is a globally recognized institution that provides students from all backgrounds access to one of the nation’s most innovative and creative learning environments. We have a distinct identity as the only university in the country designated as a Predominantly Black Institution and a Very High Research Activity Institution with an open-access mission through Perimeter College. In addition, our university holds the designation as an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI), which is further evidence of our diverse student population. As a model for inclusion, we will continue to build equity and recognition for students, staff and faculty while promoting a sense of belonging for all. We value intellectual diversity and the respectful exchange of ideas. We remain socially responsible while we engage our communities and stakeholders as we strengthen our international reputation. Our campus spaces will be inviting, accessible, sustainable, safe and rewarding places for our collective experiences.

Goal One: Create an overarching Georgia State identity that highlights and bolsters each campus’ individual and unique contributions.

1.1 Elevate Georgia State as a nationally recognized brand and vibrant first-choice destination that promotes belonging, community, and acclaim for our research, scholarship, teaching, and creative activity.

1.2 Develop curricular and co-curricular programs that explore the surrounding community and connect each campus to its history and unique culture.

1.3 Develop and support traditions that reflect Georgia State’s values and create a shared sense of identity, community, and belonging among students, staff, faculty, and alumni that are recognized externally.

1.4 Promote Georgia State’s identity as a local, regional, and national leader in accessible opportunities for global education while leveraging its location next to the busiest airport in the world and in a region rich in opportunities to grow students’ global and intercultural skills.

Goal Two: Create inviting, sustainable, and accessible physical and social places where people feel safe and want to learn, study, work, live, play and connect.

2.1 Become a nationally recognized model for student-centric, multi-purpose, and flexible spaces to learn, work, live and play that promote a sustainable environment.

2.2 Build world-class facilities that meet the needs of our diverse communities and promote a secure feeling that fosters social engagement, connection and belonging.

2.3 Expand services to promote the physical, emotional and social health of students, staff and faculty.

Goal Three: Create a workplace culture of community and belonging that demonstrates positive and equitable working relationships for all employees.

3.1 Elevate staff and faculty recruitment, career advancement, and retention through equitable and market-competitive compensation as well as personal and professional development opportunities.

3.2 Create a campus culture that encourages transparency, open communication between managers, supervisors, and staff and treats staff members as partners in all institutional endeavors.

3.3 Transform onboarding processes for staff and faculty to acclimate new employees to their work environment, integrate them into the university culture, and support them in becoming effective contributors within the workplace.

3.4 Promote staff and faculty engagement in campus community programming, including artistic, cultural, social, athletic, and recreational activities and events.