Beyond Performance to Purpose: Applying How to Navigate Life in Student Affairs (Opening Session)
Belle Liang, Ph.D.
Professor of Counseling, Developmental, and Educational Psychology
Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Boston College
Dr. Belle Liang is a Professor of Counseling, Developmental, and Educational Psychology at Boston College’s Lynch School of Education and Human Development, where she researches how to cultivate purpose and belonging in schools and workplaces. She is the inaugural Ascione Family Formation Fellow and a University Mission and Ministry Faculty Fellow, connecting her research to initiatives that support holistic development in educational and professional settings.
With over two decades at Boston College, Dr. Liang has co-led multiple research-practice partnerships funded by the National Science Foundation, the Walton Family Foundation, and others. Her work spans designing evidence-based curricula, tools, and technologies to create supportive, purpose-driven environments in schools and organizations. She has authored over 100 scientific publications and co-authored How to Navigate Life: The New Science of Finding Your Way in School, Career, & Beyond, making research insights accessible to a broad audience.
Her contributions to psychology, teaching, and mentoring have earned her numerous honors, including the Distinguished Alumni Award from Indiana University-Bloomington. She is also a Fellow of the American Psychological Association (Division 17). Dr. Liang bridges research and practice to help diverse communities cultivate purpose and belonging.
We are seeing unprecedented levels of stress and pressure in today’s environment. Based on the insights of Belle Liang and Timothy Klein’s How to Navigate Life, Belle Liang will share actionable strategies and explore the concept of purpose, attendees will learn how to guide students in discovering their "true north" and aligning their professional and personal lives with what genuinely motivates and fulfills them. This session will provide professionals with practical tools to foster more intentional, purpose-driven journeys for both themselves AND their students ensuring their well-being and success throughout their higher education experience and beyond.
