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������ý���� scored 3.5 stars out of five on , a national listing of LGBTQ-friendly colleges and universities.

“This score demonstrates that our community is actively committed to advocating for equity and inclusion of our LGBTQ+ students (and other members of our community),” said Cindy Threatt and Jonathon Sun, the co-chairs of ������ý����’s LGBTQ+ tripartite advisory committee, in a statement.

Threatt is the associate vice president of student affairs and dean of students and Sun is the assistant director of ������ý����’s Center for Diversity and Inclusion.

The score reflects ������ý����’s declared commitment to being an LGBTQ+ friendly campus, a goal outlined in both the University Strategic Plan and the Inclusive Excellence Plan. It also realizes one of the primary goals of the LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee. The committee promotes ������ý���� as a safe, inclusive and transformative space for people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions.

������ý���� promotes a positive environment for those who identify as LGBTQ+ in many ways, including by its efforts to expand gender inclusive restrooms and establish gender inclusive housing. ������ý���� also hosts annually an LGBTQ+ welcome dessert reception during welcome week and a Lavender Graduation Ceremony. It also has implemented the option to indicate one's preferred name in campus systems including class lists and grade reports. An LGBTQ+ student mentoring program, LGBTQ+ admissions fair and regular SafeZone training are also offered.

This year's incoming class is comprised of a number of students who identify as LGBTQ+, are first-generation and have differing abilities, among other identities. The overall diversification of the University's student body has been growing over the past several years. Forty-nine percent of this year’s incoming class are underrepresented (students of color and/or Hispanic), making it the most diverse class in ������ý���� history.

The Campus Pride Index is organized by Campus Pride, the leading national nonprofit for student leaders and campus groups working to create a safer college environment for LGBTQ students. The Index is a tool to support campuses in assessing LGBTQ+-friendly policies, programs and practices. Schools are rated out of five possible stars. Three stars represent a mid-range score.

“We are very proud of the ������ý���� dedication to creating an atmosphere that affirms the identities of members of our community who identify as LGBTQ+,” says  Dr. Leanna Fenneberg, vice president of student affairs. “This initial score both recognizes our accomplishments and acknowledges that this work requires a continuous commitment.  We hope you’ll join us by contributing to ongoing efforts.”