Rachel McLaughlin

Rachel McLaughlin embodies empathetic respect. In her work and in her daily interactions, when there is an opportunity to learn about someone, Rachel asks questions. When there is an opportunity to help make someone feel more welcome, comfortable, or supported, Rachel is there.

Rachel serves as assistant director for student organizations and development for Student Engagement and Campus Life. In her role, she works with the student organization community, which includes over 900 groups. Her awareness of and sensitivity to interpersonal, political, and global issues contributes to an environment of civility within SECL.

A nominator said that Rachel embodies the SECL Affirming Environments philosophy, noting, “The bright and supportive leadership she provides to the student organization population ensures students feel like they can find a place to be curious, challenge ideas, and engage in difficult conversations.”

Once, during a committee meeting, when Rachel noticed that a campus partner seemed overwhelmed by an upcoming event, she reoriented the committee to help come up with ideas for how to support the partner. As a result, the nominator said the partner “felt welcomed and they were able to collaborate with Rachel to better organize and carry out their event.”

Rachel is a force for collaboration and connection, and she seeks out ways to strengthen civility training through her work. She has embedded concepts from the Community Resilience Model and the Constructive Dialogue Institute Perspectives curriculum in SECL’s general fall student leader training to help students engage with their values while taking care of themselves and others.

Rachel’s civility is rooted in her care for others, and her understanding that our experiences inform our worldviews. A nominator said Rachel thoughtfully engages with others “from a place of genuine empathy and curiosity that centers their narrative in the conversation.”

Rachel has also participated in restorative justice training, interfaith programming, and accessibility-related professional development opportunities to expand her perspective and skillset.

A nominator said, “Rachel taught me that being a leader is a way of life—that you have to learn to improve how you connect with others, take criticism well, and always treat others with respect.”

For her wholehearted dedication to helping others feel seen and supported, Student Affairs is proud to present the Faculty/Staff Aspire! Award for PRACTICE CIVILITY to Rachel McLaughlin.