By the time students begin their postsecondary journey, many have already navigated trauma. Trauma can have a lasting impact on students and their experiences in learning environments. At the same time, research shows that there are concrete actions campus communities can take to mitigate the negative impacts of trauma while promoting resilience, well-being, and academic success for every learner.

Students affected by trauma can and do persist in postsecondary education, thriving as models of resilience and success.

This guide aims to raise awareness of trauma and resilience in postsecondary institutions, explain how trauma affects learning and development, and provide practical strategies for working effectively with students with varying levels of trauma exposure. The resource is designed for use by people in diverse campus roles, including faculty members or instructors, student services professionals, and administrators. The guide includes:

• Critical context and research on trauma and resilience, including a summary of the impact of trauma on learning
• An overview of trauma in the context of postsecondary education
• Six core principles of trauma-informed practice and strategies to apply them in postsecondary institutions
• Strategies for educators and student services professionals to manage vicarious trauma and sustain their practice
• Discussion questions to help you process and apply the information in your own unique context

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