Galloway, N.J. — Starting college can be exciting, but also daunting. At Stockton University, a newly revived residential initiative is helping first-year students find their footing, their people and their purpose.  

Formerly known as Themed Living Communities, the reimagined Living Learning Communities (LLCs) are designed to create intentional spaces where students live together in the same dormitory halls, learn with one another in the same first-year seminars, and grow together as individuals. 

Now piloting with three focused communities, the updated LLC model prioritizes student connection, retention and success through shared experiences and support. 

The pilot program streamlines seven previous community themes into three mission-driven LLCs: 

• Honors — for students enrolled in the Honors Program, offering a rigorous academic environment within a close-knit, supportive peer group.  

• TogetHER — a retention initiative supporting women of color, building sisterhood, academic confidence and leadership. 

• Sankofa — a retention initiative for men of color, fostering a sense of brotherhood, promoting health and wellbeing and academic empowerment. 

While the previous model focused on broad themes, the new LLC structure hones in on what matters most, belonging, mentorship and community-building, said Michael Slaza, coordinator for Student Success Initiatives.

“You live together. You take a class together. You're able to be very in close proximity of peers that are in a class with you,” Slaza said. “You'll have community in a class that supports your success.”

Ian Bouie, director of Academic Achievement Programs, believes the Sankofa and TogetHER LLCs create an environment for students to thrive and be themselves without fear of judgment or shame.   

“LLCs are not just a brotherhood or sisterhood, but a family as well,” Bouie said. “The friendships that formed during their time in the LLCs will hopefully last, not only during their college years, but for a lifetime.”    

Students living in LLCs benefit from more than proximity, they gain access to dedicated programming such as the Sankofa drum circle event aimed to teach students about the history of African drums, academic support and close collaboration with faculty and staff. 

Francesca Ali, a current resident of the TogetHER LLC, calls it a game-changer for new students.  

“Choosing an LLC is the perfect way for first-year and transfer students to settle into Stockton and get to meet people,” she said. “It’s a great way to find support from a community and surround yourself with people you can relate to, learn from, and have fun, honest conversations with.” 

Faculty and staff echoed the importance of LLCs in student development and retention.  

“LLCs can relieve the sense of isolation that some may face being far from home,” said Assistant Professor of Africana Studies Kimoni Yaw Ajani. 

Nordia Scott, associate professor of Education, highlighted their importance in creating a sense of belonging at predominantly white institutions like Stockton. She said LLCs can advance community and belonging.  

“They are particularly effective in supporting marginalized populations who may not always feel like they belong,” she said.  

Learn more by emailing Slaza at Michael.Slaza@stockton.edu. 

-- Story by Laura Leonel