Belonging is a key factor for improving student outcomes, including graduation, retention rates, learning, etc. This session draws on research to explore how institutional characteristics: private/public, for-profit/not-for-profit, R1/teaching, online, etc., in addition to factors such as mission, culture, and resources, shape students’ sense of belonging through the socio-ecological framework. Participants will gain actionable strategies, identify barriers, and align institutional values with inclusive practices that advance belonging and success for all students.