Students find value in their alums and it also encourages students after they graduate to contribute back to the university.
This homecoming weekend at Bridgewater State University isn’t just about reconnecting with old friends and watching the football game, it’s also a chance for the school to promote equality and celebrate diversity.
Through the Office of Student Success and Diversity, BSU is hosting its second annual You Have a Home at BSU: LGBTQ+ Alumnx and Allies reception.
The LGBTQ+ Alumnx and Allies group was formed last year to support past and present members of the campus community by providing education, advocacy, networking and engagement opportunities.
“We are still a new group, but our plan is to be highly visible and available to support students and alumnx in our community,” said founding member Kate Hayes-Huer, ’11.
The reception is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 18, from 6-8 p.m. in Weygand Hall, room 1047.
Jason Cahoon, ’12, G’15, and Jason Stocker, ’04, serve as co-chairs for the council and both say it’s rewarding to see returning to Bridgewater older alumni, who may have struggled as students during a time when society wasn’t as accepting of the LGBTQ+ community.
“The country as a whole was a different place for some of our senior alums, they didn’t feel they could be out as LGBTQ…We welcome them, and we encourage them to come here as their true authentic selves,” Stocker said.
Recent graduates have also been heavily involved with the new group.
“The council has been well-received by two distinct populations; alumnx who attended BSU during a time when the LGBTQ+ community maybe wasn’t supported like it is today, and more recent graduates who miss the space and camaraderie offered by the Pride Center and student organizations,” Hayes-Huer said.
The LGBTQ + alumnx and allies group also benefits current students.
“Students find value in their alums and it also encourages students after they graduate to contribute back to the university,” Stocker said.
Those wanting to learn more are encouraged to attend the reception.
“It would be great to see as many alums as possible to let them know what our mission is and get their feedback on how they think we could best serve our BSU community for current students and alums and to join us as our group evolves,” Cahoon said.
For anyone unable to attend event there are other ways to get involved, such as donating to one of the school’s causes including: the Achieving the Dream Fund, Barney Frank Scholarship and Student Emergency Fund.
To learn more or to donate visit, give.bridgew.edu.
“There are a variety of ways to get involved, and we welcome any level of commitment,” Cahoon said.
Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu