Creating a Safe Space: Armstrong LGBTQ Initiative

Dr. Ella Howard, Assistant Professor of HistoryKatherine Alt, Liberal Studies, Class of 2012

Inspiration for Safe Space

Strategic Plan Values:We value and respect

diversity.

Strategic Plan Goal 1:Armstrong will foster

student success.Armstrong GSA at Savannah Pride 2010

Accomplishments 2011-2012• Film Series• Safe Space

Curriculum– Pre-Workshop

Information– PowerPoint

Presentation– Facilitator’s

Manual– Resource Guide– Curriculum

Assessment

Accomplishments 2011-2012

• Logo and Website Development

Primary Partnerships• Student Affairs– Leadership team, Counseling Services

• Academic Affairs– Faculty advisory board– Faculty on film panels– Lane Library LGBTQ Subject Guide

• Advancement– Marketing and Website Development

• Business and Finance– University Police

• President’s Office

Next StepsNext steps for this grant:• Finalize and deliver to Student Affairs Pre-Workshop Information,

Curriculum, Resource Guide, Website, and Curriculum Assessment• Deliver proposed timetable

Suggested next steps for Student Affairs:• Continue LGBTQ cultural programming through Multicultural Affairs• Market Safe Space to Armstrong community• Launch Safe Space workshops

– Facilitator: John Mitchell, Counseling Services– Inverted classroom model

Preview of Curriculum

Issues on Campus

• Residence on campus / roommates• Records • Financial aid• Facilities (restrooms and locker

rooms)• Retention (inclusivity)

Role Play: Supporting

• Listen• Clarify• Know your limits• Refer

Supporting LGBTQ students

Dr. Evans is a well-liked faculty member on campus; she often builds strong relationships with her students. One day, during Dr. Evans’ office hours, a student, Alex, visits. He comes to tell Dr. Evans goodbye because he has withdrawn from his classes. When Dr. Evans asks why, Alex tells her that he came out to his parents over the weekend and now they are refusing to pay for his tuition and residence. Alex plans on leaving school and getting a job in the area since his parents also refuse to let him move back home.