Allyship in Action: App Allies: An LGBTQ+ Training for Student Affairs Practitioners
About the Session
The purpose of this program is to equip student affairs practitioners with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to foster inclusivity and provide effective support to LGBTQ+ students on college campuses. Through a combination of research-based insights and practical experience, this program aims to enhance participants' allyship capabilities, introduce the App Allies initiative, and facilitate a deeper understanding of the relevance of LGBTQ+ support in current student affairs practice.
The current higher education landscape is increasingly diverse, with students from various backgrounds seeking inclusive environments where they can thrive academically and personally. LGBTQ+ students, in particular, face unique challenges related to identity, discrimination, and mental health. According to a 2018 survey by the Trevor Project, 39% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. Moreover, the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment (ACHA-NCHA) revealed that LGBTQ+ students reported higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance use compared to their heterosexual peers. These alarming statistics underscore the pressing need for student affairs practitioners to actively support and advocate for LGBTQ+ students. Despite the increasing visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals, the question remains: how effectively are student affairs professionals addressing the specific concerns of this community? Research has shown that many LGBTQ+ students still experience discrimination and lack of support on college campuses. This program addresses this gap by offering practical strategies and resources to enhance allyship skills, thereby fostering more inclusive and affirming campus environments.
Session II, Table Rock, Room 201B, PSU
Learning Outcomes
- Promote Inclusivity: The workshop aims to educate student affairs practitioners on the importance of creating inclusive and welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ students on campus. One goal is to help participants understand the unique challenges and needs of LGBTQ+ students and provide them with the tools and knowledge to foster an inclusive campus culture.
- Enhance Allyship Skills: The workshop intends to develop participants' allyship skills and empower them to be effective allies to LGBTQ+ students. This includes building empathy, improving communication, and learning how to support and advocate for LGBTQ+ individuals in their professional roles.
- Implement App Allies: The workshop seeks to introduce and facilitate the implementation of App Allies, a specific program or resource, among student affairs practitioners. This may involve training participants on how to use the app effectively, equipping them to support LGBTQ+ students, and ensuring they are aware of available resources and networks.
By achieving these goals, the workshop can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive campus environment for LGBTQ+ students, ultimately enhancing their overall university experience.
