Arkansas State University is in the process of adding another faculty association for LGBTQ+ staff. The idea started when Dr. Christine Wright, chair of the occupational therapy department, read about A-State’s Latinx and Black Faculty and Staff Associations in the Daily Digest. 

“It was a group of folks who had come together to say this is a need on campus,” said Dr. Evette Allen-Moore, assistant vice chancellor for diversity and community engagement and director of multicultural affairs. “When you think about underrepresented groups of various backgrounds, it’s important for them to have space to talk about their concerns and needs.”

The organization is currently in its planning phase. There was an initial interest meeting on March 3, with 33 faculty and staff in attendance. On April 11, there will be an initial membership meeting. Over spring break, the applications, constitution and bylaws were written. 

It is currently unknown what the organization will be called, although names such as LGBT+ Faculty and Staff Association and LGBTQIA+ Faculty and Staff Association are in the running. 

“We want to pick a name because as society goes along, there are different (identities),” Wright said. “Right now, it’s LGBT+, meaning we leave it open up whatever comes along, but maybe other folks want it to have the ‘QIA’ on it.”

The organization’s goals, yearly dues, and bylaws will be discussed by potential members. In addition, the organization will decide if they want to work with the Gender and Sexuality Alliance, a registered student organization. Wright said she thought it “would be a great partnership” and would allow the students to have adult role models. 

“If you don’t see people who identify as you do on the campus, sometimes it can be hard to find your space. The impact for students will certainly be, ‘Oh, wow, there are people who I can identify with right on faculty and staff’,” Allen-Moore said. 

The association will act as a place for faculty and staff to voice their concerns and opinions and serve as a support group. Wright, Allen-Moore and others involved with the planning want this organization to help make A-State more inclusive and to improve campus culture. 

Wright said having formal, diverse groups supported by A-State was a big step toward improving campus culture. She said it shows everyone on campus is valued and contributes to the betterment of campus. 

“If we’re going to achieve that strategic plan of having a globally connected university, then we’ve got to reach out and speak to the globe,” Wright said. “That includes members of the LGBTQIA community. You can’t really achieve a goal unless you’re willing to develop the culture that will do that.”

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