On the close-knit campus of Rutgers University–Camden, students have countless ways to connect and get involved. From club gatherings and campus-wide events to a vibrant Greek life and a range of civic engagement programs, opportunities abound throughout the academic year. Together, these opportunities complement the university's educational offerings, helping students find connection, meaning, and purpose beyond the classroom.
Now, a renewed and intentional focus on faith, spirituality, and well-being is joining the variety of extracurricular programming on campus, offering new avenues for students, faculty, staff, and community partners to explore belonging and identity at Rutgers–Camden.
“Spiritual life has always been part of Rutgers–Camden’s identity,” said TiAira S. Neal, director of diversity, equity, and inclusion at the university. "This renewed focus strengthens the existing programming. We want spirituality to be visible and valued on campus in ways that honor every tradition and worldview. We want holistic wellness and spiritual care to be embedded within our approach to fostering inclusive excellence on campus.”
In early 2025, with guidance and support from Neal, the university relaunched its Interfaith Council, a group that brings together leaders from different religious and secular traditions to foster understanding, cooperation, and dialogue. As a seminary-trained, licensed, and ordained faith leader and chaplain, Neal is deeply inspired by the potential the Council holds for the campus community.
“My understanding of spirituality spans across many traditional religious paradigms, and I have learned a vital and universal truth about the human spirit,” Neal said. “When it is nurtured, people flourish. When it is dismissed or denied, people can feel lost and disconnected. This is not a religious idea. It is a human reality that spans every background and belief.”
Rutgers–Camden already looks to meet the spiritual and cultural needs of students with a wide range of resources: a meditation and prayer room that is open daily, student-led faith and spiritual groups supported by Student Affairs, interfaith chaplains offering guidance and care, catering that collaborates on religious and cultural dietary needs, and training to support civil discourse and understanding.
Neal anticipates the renewed focus on faith, spirituality, and well-being will deepen and expand these efforts, broadening opportunities for meaningful dialogue, mutual understanding, and holistic well-being across the campus community.
“Spirituality helps many people make sense of what they are experiencing,” said Neal. “Whether through prayer, meditation, mindfulness, or values-based community engagement, spiritual practices contribute to resilience. Supporting well-being at Rutgers–Camden includes honoring the inner life that sustains people.”
In expanding the programming available to students, Neal and her team aim to leverage the natural environment of a college campus – which fosters a diverse community of learners in the spirit of exploration, understanding, and growth – to create space for honest and compassionate conversations.
“Dialogue builds understanding,” said Neal. “When people share their experiences and listen to others, misconceptions decrease and trust increases. Universities are ideal places to learn how to engage thoughtfully and respectfully across differences, and to prepare students to navigate complex conversations with compassion, confidence, and clarity."
Ultimately, however, this initiative is about cultivating a community where everyone feels seen, supported, and that they belong.
“Our goal is simple: ensure everyone feels respected and supported in the fullness of who they are,” Neal said. “When people can show up academically, socially, and spiritually, they are more connected and confident in their community. Belonging fosters collaboration, empathy, and leadership, which is essential to a thriving campus and a positive student experience.”
