This document discusses serving LGBT students in higher education. It begins with an introduction to common LGBT terminology and emerging terms. It then discusses the push for diversity in higher education and shifting perceptions and demographics that have led to more support for LGBT students. However, LGBT students still face harsh realities like higher depression and suicide rates. The document provides cardinal rules and best practices for serving LGBT students, such as creating safe spaces and inclusive curriculum. It also discusses assessing campus climate and specific support for LGBT students at Penn State University and Penn State Shenango.
Rainbow Connection: Serving LGBT Students in Higher Education
1. The Rainbow
Connection
Serving LGBT Students
in Higher Education
Matthew P. Ciszek
April 22, 2013
Penn State Shenango
Faculty Lecture Series
Source: Baranclesdublingalway on Flickr
8. Push for Diversity
ïDiversity has become a goal of higher ed
in past 40 years
ïDiverse points of view enrich the
educational experience
ïFurthering social justice and
socioeconomic equality
ïCentrality in mission statements,
strategic plans, and educational priorities
Source: OregonDOT on Flickr
9. State of Diversity in IHEs
ïSupport for âhistorically
underrepresentedâ groups
ïThese groups include racial minorities,
ethnic minorities, and women
ïOnly beginning to consider the how to
support and represent other groups
Source: nathangibbs on Flickr
10. Shifting Perceptions
Multiculturalism on Campus (2011):
ïDiversity and multicultural climate is the
responsibility of whole institution
ïâOneâs cultural identity is more than ethnicity
or raceâ
ïâGender, age, religion, geographic identity,
and sexual orientation are equally part of the
makeup of a multicultural individualâ
Source: zamber on Flickr
11. Changing Demographics
ïTypical age at which LGBT people come
out is dropping
ïIncrease in support groups and services
geared toward LGBT teens
ïYounger generations more accepting of
LGBT people and supportive of LGBT
rights
Source: zooboing on Flickr
12. Cultural Shifts
ïWider acceptance of LGBT community in
society
ïIHEs recognizing LGBT students in the
admissions process
ïLGBT students coming to college expecting
support/services
ïRecognition that LGBT narrative adds to well-
rounded curriculum
13. Harsh Realities
ïLGBT teens face higher rates of depression
and suicide
ïLGBT teens less likely to go to college than
straight peers
ïAlthough support exists, many LGBT students
unaware of or hesitant to use it
ïHeteronormative narrative dominates, and
heterosexist attitudes abound
Source: mykalburns on Flickr
15. Cardinal Rules
1. Make no assumptions.
2. Know your students.
3. Develop relationships.
4. Engage with ânon-normativeâ groups.
5. Develop programs/services widely.
6. Improve terminology and discourse.
7. Embrace change!
Source: stevensnodgrass on Flickr
16. Best Practices
ïCreation of âsafe spacesâ in the classroom where
LGBT students can have open discussion
ïInclusion of LGBT themes in curriculum or
classroom instruction
ïTraining faculty/staff on sensitivity and awareness
of LGBT issues
ïPartnering with campus LGBT groups and
resource centers
ïDeveloping a minor in LGBT/Queer Studies
Source: fireflythegreat on Flickr
17. Campus Climate
ïCampus Pride, Inc. advocates for more
inclusive educational experiences that are
âwelcoming and respectful of LGBT and Ally
peopleâ
ïCampus Climate Index gives ratings for IHEs on
âfriendlinessâ toward LGBT/allies
ïCampus Pride provides resources and research
for faculty and student affairs staff
Source: johhlegear on Flickr
18. Penn State University
ïCommission on LGBT Equity
ïLGBTA Student Resource Center
ïLGBT Support Network
ïâStraight Talksâ, Workshops, and Other
Programming
ïSexuality and Gender Studies Minor
Source: pennstatelive on Flickr
19. University Libraries
ïLGBT Resource Guide
ïLGBT Databases and Collections
ïSelector for LGBT Materials
ïUniversity Libraries Diversity Committee
ïLGBT Collections/Services at Campuses
20. Penn State Shenango
ïRainbow Lions/Shenango GSA
ïDiversity-related Courses
ïENGL 245: Introduction to Gay and Lesbian
Studies
ïLGBT Support Network
ïLGBT-related Programming/Services