Accessing Support as a Black and Racialized Student

While students experiencing more complex or significant challenges are welcome to meet with any staff member in the Dean of Students Office, we recognize that some students may feel more comfortable connecting with someone who shares similar identities, backgrounds, or lived experiences, and that this can be especially helpful when navigating challenging circumstances.

Reina Stewart, is a Student Care Coordinator in the Dean of Students Office, providing culturally responsive support to Black and racialized students on all campuses and locations. 

Meeting with the Student Care Coordinator

As a Black woman, Reina understands the unique experiences of students with marginalized identities. Her work is grounded in creating inclusive spaces and ensuring students have access to the support and resources they need to be successful. 

Meeting with Reina is different from seeing a counsellor or academic advisor. Reina's role is to provide a supportive space where you can discuss your experiences, explore challenges and opportunities, and identify resources that may help you navigate university life. 

Reina can help students:

  • Explore pathways for support moving forward,
  • Develop a plan for next steps,
  • Connect you with culturally relevant supports and campus resources, and
  • Advocate for your needs when appropriate.
Recognizing that every student's experiences and circumstances are unique, the guidance, support, and follow-up you receive will be tailored to your individual goals, identities, and needs.
I wish someone had told me during my undergrad that it is okay if your journey does not look like everyone else’s.
(Reina Stewart, Student Care Coordinator)

Support and Services

From personal experience, Reina knows it can be difficult to ask for help. As part of the Dean of Students Office, Reina's role is not just about supporting students through their current circumstances; it is also about helping Black and racialized students build the tools, confidence, and knowledge to navigate whatever comes next.

With so many resources available at Laurier, it can be hard to know where to start, especially when you're balancing academic responsibilities with challenges outside the classroom. Reina is here to help Black and racialized students navigate university processes and connect with the academic, financial, and personal supports that best fit their unique needs, including the resources listed below.

Financial Support

It can be difficult to afford all the expenses that come with university life, and Black and racialized students face additional barriers when it comes to financial support. This contributes to why one of the most common reasons students connect with Reina is for financial challenges. Reina is available to help Black and racialized students navigate the supports available on campus for ongoing financial challenges, financial aid, and financial emergencies.

Wellness & Advocacy

As part of her role, Reina aims to provide culturally responsive care, mental health support referrals that are tailored to students' individual circumstances, and models community care in all aspects of her role. In addition to advocating for students on an individual level while they navigate complex circumstances, Reina works closely with colleagues across campus to advocate for the needs of Black and racialized students at Laurier.

Academic & Career

In addition to providing individualized guidance based on each student’s needs and goals, Reina helps students navigate available support and build connections that foster confidence, skill development, and long-term success at Laurier. As part of her role, Reina helps connect students with specialized mentorship opportunities, connect to Student Success programming, study sessions and peer support that promote academic success, and links students to tailored supports that help them achieve their academic, financial, and career goals.

Community & Connection

As part of her role, Reina can provide regular check-ins for students who are connected for extenuating circumstances and aims to create opportunities for Black and racialized students to build meaningful connections and a sense of belonging on campus. Through community-focused programming, events, workshops, and other initiatives, Reina helps students connect with peers, resources, and campus opportunities in a supportive environment that fosters engagement, community, and student success.

Connecting with Reina 

Black and racialized students who are looking to connect for coordinated support can meet with Reina virtually or in person, through scheduled appointments or drop-in hours. Please note that meetings are confidential, and information is not shared with instructors, family members, or staff on campus, unless specifically requested by the student. 

Schedule an Appointment with Reina Stewart 

In-Person Drop-In Hours 

Waterloo Campus: Wednesdays 1:30-3:30 pm | Fred Nichols Campus Centre Rm. 209.
Brantford Campus: Thursdays 1:30-3:30 pm | One Market Building OM 207-40.

Common Resources

Financial Support

Mental Health Resources

Academic Success & Career Wellness

Building Community