A sense of belonging reflects how connected and accepted students feel on university campuses. Sexual and gender minority students (SGM) often feel excluded and experience bullying, harassment, and assault related to their sexual orientation and gender identity, putting them at a greater risk for experiencing negative mental and physical health outcomes, including increased suicide risk. An online survey of UWEC students who self-identified as LGBTIA+ was conducted through Qualtrics (N=84). Nearly 20% indicated they did not feel a sense of belonging or included, and have considered leaving UWEC because they felt isolated or unwelcomed. Respondents witnessed or experienced discrimination based on sexual orientation (59.5% and 40.5% respectively) and gender identity or expression (65.5% and 39.3% respectively). All respondents experienced one or more microaggressions on campus. Nearly one-third report having anxiety; 25% report experiencing depression. Protective factors and recommendations for respondents' suggestions for improving belonging will be discussed, as well as select qualitative responses of lived experiences and public health implications.
