Belonging at NAU

At NAU, inclusion is more than a value, it’s how we build community. Our campus is home to students from various backgrounds and lived experiences, and we are committed to creating an environment where every Lumberjack feels seen, heard, and valued.

Your story, background, and perspective are part of what makes the NAU community strong. Celebrating what makes each student unique and creating environments where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to be themselves is a top priority.

Smiling students sit at a table and work on their laptops.

The Community, Leadership, Alliances, and Belonging (CoLAB) Center

Located in the University Union and the Union Fieldhouse, the Community, Leadership, Alliances, and Belonging (CoLAB) Center transforms the student experience through opportunities where every student can find belonging, develop community-centered leadership, and make a lasting impact at NAU and beyond through involvement, collaboration, and alliances.

Services and support

CoLAB is one of several resources that help you navigate the college experience. Other services include:

  • Mentoring and coaching: Get one-on-one support from our team of peer mentors, grad assistants, and professional staff with Peer Jacks Mentoring and First Generations Programs.
  • Academic support: Get help with classes through our partnership with Academic Success Centers. We'll connect you with academic resources like the Weekly Tutoring Program and other resources that support your academic journey.
  • Counseling: Connect with Counseling Services for individual and confidential counseling.
  • Technology access: Use computers, printers, or just stop by if you need help with anything tech-related.

Get connected

Student clubs and organizations

Want to meet people who share your interests or try something totally new? NAU has 400+ student clubs and organizations that bring people together to learn, lead, volunteer, create, and just have fun.

Once enrolled, explore our clubs and organizations.

Leadership Opportunities and Mentoring:

The CoLAB Center aims to cultivate student leaders who build meaningful alliances and lead with a commitment to community stewardship and collective responsibility through multiple programs and initiatives, including the Edge Leadership Program and the Involvement to Impact Leadership Academy. Reach out to colab@nau.edu for more information.

Events

From large-scale community-building events such as Homecoming to heritage month events and guest speakers, NAU’s calendar is packed with ways to connect and celebrate who you are

Explore upcoming events

Contact us

Need support of have questions? Visit us on the first floor of the University Union Fieldhouse (building 30). For an appointment, call the CoLAB Center at 928-523-5656 or email colab@nau.edu.

Meet the team