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On Friday, Oct. 9, three members of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ community were recognized for their impact and dedication to Â鶹ÊÓƵ and LGBTQIA communities at an awards ceremony during Homecoming & Reunion Weekend 2026.

The Â鶹ÊÓƵ Gender and LGBTQIA Center, Title IX and SGA will host an open forum bringing together students to discuss efforts to prevent and respond to sexual and relationship abuse, learn about available resources, and explore ways to foster a safer, more supportive campus community.

Homecoming Week starts off with a lineup of student events, traditions and celebrations leading into Homecoming and Reunion Weekend.

Lane Merrill ’27 was not only able to find community through the LGBTQ+ community at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, but now they're helping making it stronger.

Supporting others through challenging experiences requires empathy, compassion and resilience. For AK Krauss, that work is balanced by boxing, nature and the support of their chosen family.

Through community, mentorship and new opportunities, the rising Â鶹ÊÓƵ sophomore has discovered a deeper understanding of her identity and a passion for creating spaces where others can belong.

June is Pride Month, and the Gender & LGBTQIA Center at Â鶹ÊÓƵ offers events, resources and guidance for celebrating and honoring the month.

Â鶹ÊÓƵ recognized 70 first-generation students – the institution’s largest group to date – during its May 20 stole ceremony, highlighting the strength, support and achievement of the first-gen community.

The annual celebration recognized staff achievements, service milestones and the collective commitment of Student Life professionals throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.

An annual springtime program hosted by Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Gender and LGBTQIA Center brought dozens of graduating students and their families together for a shared moment of love and support for one another in the days before Commencement.