LGBTQ+ Resource Center

The LGBTQ+ Resource Center serves to foster a supportive environment that is open, safe, and inclusive for students of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions. The Center’s objective is to celebrate and affirm LGBTQ+ people, identities, and communities; to support the development of LGBTQ+-sensitive and -accountable personal and professional skills among the Ferris community; and to support and advocate for, and with, members of the LGBTQ+ community for an equitable, inclusive culture at Ferris State University that celebrates and values LGBTQ+ people.

Our Mission

• Affirm and celebrate LGBTQ+ individuals, identities, and cultures.
• Educate the greater Ferris community about LGBTQ+ identities and LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming practices.
• Connect LGBTQ+ students with each other, staff and faculty, and all University resources.
• Provide resources for students, employees, and the community to learn about and advocate for LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Foster student leadership and personal, academic, and professional growth through mentoring and collaborations on and off campus.
• Provide a gathering space for all LGBTQ+ students & allies to build community and support each other. 

A Home Away from Home

     The LGBTQ+ Resource Center is first and foremost a safe haven for LGBTQ+ students. We can provide general information about different LGBTQ+ issues, referrals to other campus departments and off-campus resources, and advocacy for students whether that be in the classroom, on campus, or wherever else we can.

Signature Programs, Events, and Services

The LGBTQ+ Resource Center provides cultural programming for National Coming Out Day, LGBT History Month, Women's History Month, Transgender Visibility Week, Pride Month, and more.

LGBTQ+ Lending Library

We have a large collection of 500+ LGBTQ+-focused books and resources ranging from non-fiction memoirs to comics and everything in between! Students, faculty, and staff are welcome to check out these books for free whenever they like from the LGBTQ+ Resource Center. Email us or stop in and see a student employee today!  

GEnder Exploration closet

Within the LGBTQ+ Resource Center is the Gender Exploration Closet! We have a collection of clothing available for students to kick-start a wardrobe that allows them to align their appearance with their identity. We also have binders, packers, and other gender-affirming items that can help with appearances. Contact Becca at [email protected] or ask a staff member for assistance!

Lavender graduation

Lavender Graduation is a small, more relaxed version of commencement recognizing our LGBTQ+ students in a safe and more private space. A slideshow presentation highlights each student's accomplishments and acknowledges how proud we are! Students also receive a special rainbow cord, tassel, and stole to wear at commencement should they choose to go. 

Coming Soon!

The LGBTQ+ Resource Center is always listening to student feedback and coming up with new programs. Here are a few projects in the works that we are looking at bringing to Ferris!

LGBTQ+ Greek Life

Have you ever looked at various Greek organizations and wished that there was one devoid of gender norms and filled with the same sense of belonging and comradery? If so, we want to hear from you! There are a few LGBTQ+-specific Greek organizations that we'd love to bring to campus, but we need students to show interest before applying. Please contact Becca at [email protected] if you're interested!