Laker Nation News

As a part of its commitment to developing and maintaining a diverse, inclusive campus environment for students, staff and faculty, Lake Land College is recognizing and celebrating Pride month throughout June.

“It’s so important for us as a college to celebrate all our students and offer the support they need to be the best, most authentic versions of themselves,” said Mercury Bowen, Coordinator for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Belonging. “We are pleased to recognize all LGBTQIA+ individuals in our community by celebrating Pride month.”

As the DEIB Coordinator, Bowen serves as an advocate for student needs, leading initiatives that maintain a positive campus environment and reflect a diverse student population. Included in these efforts are a wide variety of Pride and LGBTQ+ resources, such as a campus club, ally training programs and funding sources to help with identity changes.

The campus Pride club is dedicated to promoting understanding and equity for the LGBTQIA+ community. LGBTQIA+ individuals as well as allies are invited to join and support an inclusive campus environment. Current students can learn more and register to join the club by visiting the Lake Land College club webpage at LakeLandCollege.edu/student-life/clubs/.

Lake Land also offers a Safe Zone training program, implemented by the Inclusion, Diversity & Equity Committee to welcome and support members of the LGBTQIA+ community at the College. The tiered program offers three levels of training intensity; Ally, Advocate and Trainer; and equips participants with the knowledge they need to provide a safe, supportive place for all individuals. A modified version of the training called “Safe with Me” is also available for students.

The LGBTQIA+ Reserve Fund also provides immediate assistance to LGBTQIA+ students at Lake Land College. Funds are used to help transgender students legally change their names and help protect their identities. More information on how to donate to the fund or how to apply for support is available on the Lake Land College website at LakeLandCollege.edu/diversity/safe-zone/.

Additional resources for LGBTQIA+ members and allies are available on the Lake Land College website at LakeLandCollege.edu/diversity/safe-zone/.

For more information on inclusion, diversity and equity at Lake Land College, visit the Lake Land College diversity webpage at LakeLandCollege.edu/diversity.

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