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• LGBT Resource Center offers helpful programs

According to the campus climate report from May 2006, almost one-third of surveyed students “witnessed an event or events of discrimination or harassment based on an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.”

That’s why organizations such as the LGBT Resource Center exist — to create a safe space for any and all students on campus, regardless of sexual orientation, race, gender, disability or ethnicity. It also offers several programs and resources to students and allies struggling with sexual orientation or gender issues.

Directed by Leslie Morrow, the LGBT Resource Center hosts a Lunch and Learn event about twice a month. Meetings are held in room 323 of the Union.

“Every other Monday, they have a Lunch and Learn, where you talk about issues such as HIV prevention, open relationships, straight dating versus gay dating, etc.,” said Cody Morrow, a freshman in Engineering.

Another often-overlooked resource for LGBT students and allies is the Hillel Foundation, a Jewish campus life center. Yael Mazor, the engagement associate at Hillel, works as a staff liaison to LGBT and helps students facilitate events.

“People often feel uncomfortable coming to a religious space when it comes to LGBT issues,” Mazor said. “We try to make everyone welcome. We want students to reclaim their pride in their Jewish identities as well as their LGBT identities. They can have both. Everyone is welcome 100 percent.”

Hillel offers several resources and organizations specifically dedicated to helping Jewish LGBT students. Students are welcome to come there with any questions or concerns they have regarding sexual orientation, gender identities, coming out or being an ally.

Hillel also hosts special events, such as the LGBT Shabbat dinner on April 3, in conjunction with the LGBT Resource Center. The place and time are to be determined.

The LGBT office is a place where students can relax and meet others in a safe, non-judgmental environment. It also offers several resources such as books, videos, pamphlets and lists of upcoming events.

“We provide educational resources for faculty and staff and the rest of the community,” said Lyndon Stewart, assistant director of the LGBT Resource Center. “We offer referral services and counseling. People can come to us, and we figure out a proper course of action.”

The LGBT office has been helpful to many students, whether they are LGBT, allies or faculty. Its services are made possible by dedicated students and staff members.

“I came out to my close friends during the summer but not officially until right at the beginning of this year,” Morrow said. “I looked up the office and was really scared, especially since I was just a freshman. But it helped me a lot. I talked to the director, and one of the guys invited me to a barbecue. I read a lot of books from its library. I’ve taken straight friends and allies to lunch and to hang out there. It definitely helped me to come out.”