Students' experiences of diversity, ethnicity, and race impact their sense of belonging in higher education. Belonging is defined in many ways; even so, many scholars agree that a sense of belonging is critical to students’ academic motivation, success, and well-being (Osterman, 2000; Newman, 1991; Goodenow, 1993b). Belonging can be researched, measured, and cultivated. What are the benefits of such research, and why is it critical to higher education? Evidence demonstrates that belonging not only contributes to academic success and motivation, it can also inform a prospective student’s choice of higher education institution. What must be present in order for belonging to thrive in an institution? Taylor's research and practices with psychological safety state that, like air, food, and water, in order to thrive, humans need to feel safe to learn, contribute, and challenge the status quo. Taylor's four levels of psychological safety can be a portal of entry to a thriving and meaningful learning environment and higher education experience.