A Trellis Strategies survey of 43,519 undergraduates found 57% reported sometimes or always feeling lonely—a pattern linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression and to attrition. Lonely students were up to four times more likely to meet criteria for a mental-health disorder, and many cited weak community connections as a reason for stopping out. The report flagged loneliness as a hidden driver of retention and student success challenges. New York University launched NYU IRL, a multi-campus effort to create device-free ‘‘nests,’’ faculty training on ‘‘device optimization,’’ and in-person programming to reduce screen time and foster social connection. NYU President Linda G. Mills framed the initiative as part of a broader strategy to address student mental health and classroom engagement. Universities should view technology and social isolation as linked policy levers: expect more campus pilots that pair device-management, residential programming, and revamped student-life investments aimed at boosting belonging and retention.