MSU named most LGBTQ-friendly college in Montana
Montana State University was recently named the most LGBTQ-friendly college in the state of Montana.
The rankings were made by BestColleges.com in partnership with the nonprofit organization Campus Pride. The universities featured on the list were chosen by a panel of experts from Campus Pride for their inclusion features.
In its accompanying write-up about MSU, BestColleges.com noted that MSU is home to advocacy groups such as the Queer Straight Alliance, offers gender-neutral restrooms and locker room facilities, and trains faculty and staff in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-inclusive practices, including counseling and psychological services. The school also has a campus office, the Diversity and Inclusion Student Commons, or DISC, which provides resources for students, faculty and staff; offers trainings and workshops; and sponsors several awards. Formerly known as the Diversity Awareness Office, DISC provides support for those who identify with a range of diverse identity groups, increasing understanding, promoting inclusion and inspiring critical thinking about diversity.
BestColleges.com noted that MSU also offers an LGBTQ Mentoring Program that connects experienced students, faculty and staff members with new students and other members of the community who are looking for support. In this program, mentors introduce mentees to the campus culture and help new students connect with MSU’s LGBTQ community.
“MSU is thrilled to receive this recognition,” said Ariel Donohue, director of DISC. “This ranking reflects the coordinated efforts of many campus units to create an inclusive environment for LGBTQ students. We will continue to strengthen our support services for all underrepresented students, including those within the LGBTQ community.”
An open house to celebrate DISC’s recently redesigned office space and help kick off the semester’s inclusion efforts will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, in the Strand Union Building, Room 368. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, email diversity@montana.edu.
