Inclusive Excellence & Belonging

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Students sitting in Adirondack chairs having a conversation on a beautiful spring day

A thriving school starts with a strong sense of belonging.

Rooted in the belief that belonging is essential to individual and institutional success, the Center for Inclusive Excellence & Belonging advances Loomis Chaffee’s school-wide efforts to build a vibrant culture where every person, regardless of background, perspective, or life experience, is fully supported, authentically engaged, and able to bring their full selves into the learning community.

A group of students dancing with their hands in the air during Cultural Outburst

“True excellence in education requires a community where all — students and adults alike — feel seen, connected, and valued, knowing they matter.”

Jody Reilly Soja Head of School

What is Inclusive Excellence and Why is Belonging Important?

Inclusive excellence is a strategic framework that integrates belonging, well-being, and opportunity into every facet of school life.

Boys soccer team members cheering on the sidelines

Two students celebrating during Cultural Outburst

Belonging — that feeling of connection and acceptance for who you are — is a key driver of academic motivation, mental health, and identity development.

A Community Where Everyone Matters

Girls field hockey team holding a flag that states %22Everyone is welcome here%22

At Loomis and through the work of the Center for Inclusive Excellence & Belonging, we strive to place human connection at the core of the educational experience by:

fostering a school culture where all feel they matter and belong;
designing programs, structures, and systems that enable every student and adult to thrive;
creating learning environments that reflect a wide range of voices, stories, and strengths; and
ensuring that connection, care, and inclusion are everyday practices.

“At Loomis Chaffee, anybody can find their place, find their people, and find where they belong.”

Claire C. Junior

Belonging shows up when...

A student sees their story reflected in the curriculum

An employee knows their perspective matters

A community member feels safe to be fully themselves

When everyone feels they belong, the whole community benefits. We are stronger, more creative, and better prepared to face challenges together — on campus and beyond.

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Student Organizations & Affinity Groups

Programs & Events

Resources

NOVEMBER 11–12, 2025

Lighting the Way, Together

Join us for The Illuminators Gathering: A Community for Educators in Independent Schools, sponsored by Loomis Chaffee’s Center for Inclusive Excellence & Belonging.

View Details & Register