LGBTQ survey says
The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) is one of the nation’s largest and most prestigious student honor society. The organization recently determined which of the country’s top alma maters are contributing the most dedicated resources to their LGBTQ student body. With over a million members spread across 700 universities there was plenty of data at NSLS to look at.
NSLC checked data including the best gay Greek life to on campus counseling and support. They found that two out of the top 10 most LGBTQ friendly Colleges and Universities in the U.S. are located in New Jersey. They are Rutgers University—which topped the list and Montclair State University which came in at number eight.
The colleges nationwide with the most dedicated LGBTQ resources:
1) RUTGERS: With the first openly gay Dean, classes in gender, sexuality, and identity, a mentorship program for queer students, and a Center for Social Justice Education & LGBT Communities, NSLS says the NJ school creates the ultimate inclusive setting for diverse students.
2) University of Washington: Putting LGBTQ students front & center, U. of Washington offers a Major in Gender & Sexuality Studies, and the O Center promises ‘community, education, advocacy, love and celebration’ for the LGBTQ community.
3) Ohio State: The home of the Buckeyes provides LGBTQ students many resources and services designed specifically for them, including metal health, tutoring, and networking organizations such as Out in Business. The campus has an LGBTQ fraternity called Phi Alpha Kappa.
4) University of Massachusetts: In addition to robust educational programs and advocacy workshops, the schools Amherst Stonewall Center, was established in 1985 to provide physical & mental health services, making it the oldest college LGBTQ organization in the U.S.
5) Texas A&M: In addition to a wealth of social opportunities, the San Antonio campus’ ‘Pride Center’ is designed to empower LGBTQ students to make the most of their education, pairing them with mentors based on their interests,
6) San Diego State: Offering a full social & academic calendar designed for LGBTQ students, with groups such as the Queer Student Union, and Womyn’s Outreach Association, as well as a number of ‘Greek’ events. SDSU’s Pride Center is dedicated to providing Queer, Trans, and gender non-conforming students with the support they need to make the most of their college years.
7) University of Maryland: The College Park campus’ LGBTQ Equity Center is dedicated to providing ‘inclusive programming’ to the school’s diverse community. In addition to ‘student life programming,’ the Center offers leadership training to the next generation of social justice advocates.
8) Montclair State: With one of the most inclusive campus environments in the nation, with a number of programs plus the Stonewall Suites, an on-campus LGBTQ residential community, Montclair is an ideal school for queer students who want to build strong community.
9) Metropolitan State University of Denver: The school’s LGBTQ Resource Center is West Colorado’s first LGBTQ+ campus support organization. Founded in 1992, it’s become a safe space, and resource center designed to give LGBTQ+ students a place to gather.
10) University of Oregon: Named the most inclusive college in the state, the University’s LGBT Education & Support Services department offers social & academic organizations for students to engage and network within their community.