Supporting the Whole Graduate Experience: Flourishing at Laney
Graduate school is often described as a time of intense intellectual growth—but for many students, it can also be a period marked by isolation, uncertainty, and pressure to perform. This semester, the Laney Graduate School is naming that reality and responding with intention through the launch of Flourishing at Laney, a new initiative designed to support graduate students as whole people—academically, personally, and professionally.
Flourishing at Laney brings together programming, conversations, and resources organized around three interconnected pillars: Purpose & Wellbeing, Pathways to Success, and Community & Belonging. Together, these pillars reflect Laney’s commitment to ensuring that students not only succeed in their programs, but feel supported, connected, and prepared to thrive during and beyond graduate school.
“Graduate education is demanding, and we know that students’ needs extend far beyond the classroom,” said Jennifer Cason, assistant dean of student affairs & deputy Title IX coordinator. “Flourishing at Laney creates space for students to reflect on their experiences, build meaningful connections, and access resources that support their wellbeing and long-term goals.”
At the heart of the initiative is a recognition that community matters. Whether students are navigating a new city, balancing research with personal responsibilities, or questioning their next steps, Flourishing at Laney offers opportunities to connect with peers, faculty, and staff who understand the complexities of the graduate journey.
Dean Kimberly Jacob Arriola emphasized that the initiative builds on a long-standing culture of care at Laney while offering a clearer framework for support. “There have always been opportunities for students to flourish at Laney,” she said. “This initiative allows us to name those efforts, strengthen them, and ensure that every student knows they are not navigating graduate school alone.”
The Flourishing at Laney kickoff event will bring this vision to life with a panel discussion featuring faculty, staff, and students reflecting on their graduate journeys—sharing honest stories of challenge, growth, connection, and moments of flourishing. The event will also include food, door prizes, and time to connect informally with members of the Laney community.
All graduate students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to attend. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, reconnect, or simply spend time in a welcoming space, the kickoff event offers an invitation to be part of a growing community centered on care, purpose, and possibility.
Space is limited. Registration is required—sign up and join us as we launch Flourishing at Laney.
Join us for the official kickoff event:
📍 Flourishing at Laney Kickoff Panel
⏰ 4–6 p.m.
🗓 Thursday, February 12
📍 Klamon Room, Claudia Nance Rollins Building