Resource Spotlight On: LGBTQ+ Student Support
The University of Arkansas and our Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences have so many resources available – but how do you find them or learn what might come in handy to know?
In this “Resources Spotlight On …” series, we explore the myriad of valuable resources available on topics ranging from how to write a research paper, to ways to connect to various communities and groups on campus, to easier navigation of our services, to finding hidden campus gems, and everything in between.
In today’s “Resources Spotlight On …” feature, we explore the many resources and ways we help and connect with our LGBTQ+ students and campus community.
“Because here at Fulbright College, our mission is to enrich lives by promoting discovery, diversity, and inclusion, facilitating transformational experiences, and fostering peace through education,” said Kathy Sloan, interim dean.
“We work hard daily to make sure our campus, country and the world beyond is a better, safer, more just and compassionate place, and to help create a world where everyone can live with dignity and be free from fear,” she added.
“One of the main ways we do this is by creating a sense of belonging on campus, and striving to embody our U of A values of curiosity, creativity, character and our shared humanity. We hope this spotlight series helps you find new resources and ways to connect, and please know that our Dean’s Office and Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is also always here to help in any way we can,” she said.
LGBTQ+ Support and Campus Resources
Check out the U of A LGBTQ+ Mentoring Program, which provides opportunities for mentors and mentees to be build community, connect to a larger LGBTQ+ community networks, engage in educational learning, and have fun.
Find a like-minded community in one of more than 400 Registered Student Organizations, including but not limited to the Lavender Society, OutLaw, PRIDE: People Respecting the Individual Differences and Equality, and Advocacy for Diverse Artists.
Utilize the gender-neutral U of A campus bathroom map.
Learn about Pat Walker Health Center resources, including:
- Physical and medical wellness services
- Primary Care Clinic for general health and sexual wellness concerns
- GYN (Women’s) Clinic for gynecological health services
- “Get Yourself Tested” Clinic for sexual health screenings
- Mental and emotional wellness services
- “Let’s Talk,” a free outreach program that offers students convenient access to brief, informal consultations with a mental health clinician at various locations on campus.
- Support and resource groups
- LGBTQ+ support group, which meets Wednesdays at 4 p.m. in CORD 349. No referral or initial consultation necessary.
- Understanding Self and Other support groups, which has two groups available. An initial consultation is needed before joining.
- Anxiety and Depression Reduction Workshop, which has three groups available. No referral or initial consultation necessary.
- Family Matters support group, which meets Wednesdays at 3 p.m. An initial consultation is needed before joining.
- Body Trust support group, which meets Thursdays at 11 a.m. An initial consultation is needed before joining.
Explore some online self-help resources that might be helpful, including:
- LGBTQ+ resources
- Anxiety and depression resources
- Relationships resources
- Trauma resources
- Togetherall, an anonymous social media-style mental health website for U of A students that provides a safe place to connect with others experiencing similar feelings, as well as access to useful self-help resources, peer groups, self-assessments and more.
Seek emergency funding if needed, through the college’s Dean’s Emergency Retention Fund.
Sign up to receive the college’s weekly DEI Newsletter by visiting deiartssciences.uark.edu.
Connect with additional resources available at U of A Cares, report.uark.edu, from our Office of Equal Opportunity and Compliance, and through our college’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Have an idea for U of A or Fulbright College resources, services or topics you’d like to see be a part of the Fulbright REVIEW’s “Resources Spotlight On …” series? Let us know! Reach out at fulbright@uark.edu.