Members of WeMerge collaborated on a research project that examined how the 2023 Plasticity of Well-Being Summer Workshop supported participant well-being. Drawing on extensive conversations and reflections from attendees, this qualitative study explored what made this gathering feel different from more traditional academic events. Participants described experiencing a caring, supportive community where they could show up as their full selves, build genuine relationships, and connect through openness and emotional expression. They also highlighted the importance of reduced hierarchy, inclusive support across emotional, physical, and financial needs (such as shared meals and funded travel), and how these elements helped foster a strong sense of belonging and collective purpose among scholars from diverse backgrounds. This research hopes to provide insight into fostering well-being at academic convenings for all scholars.
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