Info for Prospectives
Coming to college is a huge transition that comes with making a lot of decisions. Which school is right for you? Which major will help you get the career I want? Will you make a lot of friends? We know that choosing a college is a difficult decision, and so we created this section to help you see if Grand Valley is the right school for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Grand Valley does a lot to ensure all of its students are protected and feel safe. We have a LGBT-friendly Department of Public Safety (DPS). They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on holidays and breaks! Just recently, GVSU also implemented a new Bias Incident Protocol which can be found at this website. If you ever think you are a victim of a bias incident or hate crime, you can immediately contact DPS or a faculty or staff member whom you trust. Speaking of faculty and staff, we also have an Allies and Advocates training program for all interested faculty and staff. The A&A website (linked to this one) will give you a listing of all faculty and staff here at GVSU that will have open doors for everyone!
2. What opportunities exist at GVSU for LGBT people?
There are many opportunities here for both LGBT students and allies. Out ‘n’ About, our student organization is a very open and welcoming place for all students – their website is linked to this one. There are also over 200 student organizations at GVSU, many of which are very open and welcoming as well. You can also volunteer with our office by helping plan events, by receiving an upperclass mentor (or being a mentor yourself)
3. Is there special support for LGBT people?
Besides our center, which offers a ton of support to LGBT students, faculty and staff, as well as to members of the community, there are many departments on campus that are supportive and welcoming of LGBT students. Housing and Residence Life, the Counseling Center, Department of Public Safety, Office of Multicultural Affairs, and the Women’s Center – just to name a few! Just look for the Allies & Advocates or Safe Harbor sticker in the windows of offices all over campus!
4. Is there Housing available for me and my partner?
While the Housing and Residence Life department is supportive of LGBT residents, there is currently nothing specific about partner housing. Please visit the housing website for more information or contact their office directly at 331-2120.
5. Does GVSU offer same-sex partner benefits?
Currently, GVSU does not offer same-sex partner benefits, however there were talks in our recent history on this subject. Many of the public institutions in Michigan do already offer same-sex partner benefits, and so it may be likely that GVSU will in the future.
6. What is GVSU's policy on discrimination?
Section 100.01 of the Student Code: DISCRIMINATION
Right: Every aspect of University life should be free from discrimination because of age, color, disability, familial status, height, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, or weight. Student housing, organizations, athletics, classes and University community facilities should be open to all who desire to participate.
Responsibility: It is the responsibility of all members of the academic community to ensure through word and action that discrimination because of age, color, disability, familial status, height, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, or weight is not present in University activities or in the University community.
Referral: Students with concerns of discrimination or harassment of any kind should consult with the Dean of Students or the Director of Affirmative Action. Complaints regarding discrimination or harassment should be filed with the Affirmative Action Office.
7. Are there LGBT student organizations on campus?
Yes! Out ‘n’ About is our LGBT student organization and you can visit their website by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page. You can also begin your own student organization through the Office of Student Life: studentlife.gvsu.edu.
8. Does GVSU offer any courses related to LGBT subjects?
Yes! Most of them are offered under the Women and Gender Studies or Liberal Studies departments. Here are some examples:
LIB 325 – Understanding the Gay Life Cycle
HST 371 – History of Gender, Family, Sexuality
WGS/CJ 310 – Sexual Orientation and the Law
WGS 324 – Introduction to Lesbian and Gay Studies
WGS 380 – Lesbian, Gay & Queer Literature
9. What are some social outlets off campus?
Please check out the Community Resources page, it lists a lot of things to see and places to go in the Grand Rapids area!
10. Are there scholarships for LGBT students?
Yes! Please visit the Campus Resources page for more information about scholarships for LGBT students!
11. Is there specific support for LGBT students of color?
The center is currently in its developmental stage and it is imperative that there is support for LGBT students of color. Specific services are in the works. Have an idea? Contact us!
