Little Rock, Arkansas – Whether you’re a child, teen or adult, a sense of belonging is essential to improving performance.

UA Little Rock, faculty, and students aim to provide that environment for all.

College is a place where you make memories and friendships that hopefully last a lifetime.

Senior Delaney Lyon says UA Little Rock made him feel welcomed into the Trojan family as a freshman, from students to staff.

“You always have someone to talk to. You can ask questions at any time and they are very welcoming when you walk in the door.”

Many students walk through the doors of the Student Center, which is in charge of Rodolfo Morales.

Morales says he takes pride in making UA Little Rock a home away from home for his students.

Within the Student Center, there are swimming, basketball, lounges, and more available for students. However, although there are already many activities, Morales always wants to provide more activities for his students.

“We’re here for our students and whatever they want to see, we try to bring it to the forefront.”

Whether entertainment or inclusion, UA Little Rock focuses on both.

With diversity, equity and inclusion, Melvin Beavers says UA Little Rock strives to be a place where people of different identities feel comfortable.

“Our overall goal is to let students know they need to go somewhere else if they have a problem,” Biebers said.

Beavers adds that UA Little Rock’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is more than rhetoric.

“We want to make sure we’re doing action-oriented things,” he adds.

The Biebers describe it by using the term “action-oriented” to make a statement to stand up to groups in distress. It is also celebrated in groups on certain months or holidays.

As another example, Beavers says one of the many celebrations UA Little Rock has started to create an inclusive environment is its first Juneteenth event, which kicked off this past June.

“You come here and you feel recognized, you feel dignified, you feel part of something special.”