Best College for LGBTQ Students in Each State Campus Pride Index

LGBTQ+ students at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have access to the institution's resource center and student affairs office, which provide numerous LGBTQ+ resources for undergraduate and graduate students. Student counseling services welcome learners of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and UAB runs an LGBTQ+ mental health and wellness clinic that offers outpatient psychopharmacology and therapy. Safe zone peer educators provide education and training on gender and sexuality, welcoming LGBTQ+ students and allies.

UAB also boasts multiple support and affinity organizations for LGBTQ+ students, gender-inclusive restrooms in campus housing, and a simple process for students to change their name on university records and documents.

Every spring, UAB hosts a Lavender Celebration to honor LGBTQ+ students for their contributions to campus. Awards include the Glenda Elliott LGBTQ+ Advocacy Award -- recognizing a UAB student, faculty, or staff member who advocated for LGBTQ+ rights -- and the Lavender Leadership award for leadership on campus.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

From its campus in Juneau, the University of Alaska Southeast offers numerous LGBTQ+ housing and residential life resources, including roommate matching so students can find LGBTQ+-friendly roommates, gender-inclusive on-campus housing, and gender-inclusive restroom facilities. Additionally, UAS trains its residence staff about LGBTQ+ issues and concerns in order to provide a safer environment for LGBTQ+ students living on campus.

UAS also offers counseling and support groups for LGBTQ+ students, where counseling staff all receive trans-inclusive training. Students can access LGBTQ+-inclusive health information through the health center, while the resource center provides additional support for LGBTQ+ students. Students can also choose from LGBTQ+-specific course offerings, and UAS provides an accessible process for students to change their gender identity in their university records. The university also actively hires LGBTQ+ faculty and staff members to create an inclusive environment in the classroom and across campus.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Located in Tucson, the University of Arizona earns excellent marks for its LGBTQ+ student life, campus safety, and institutional commitment. Prospective students can self-identify their sexual orientation and gender identity on their admission application, and the university boasts LGBTQ+ and ally student organizations and an LGBTQ+ fraternity and sorority. Other LGBTQ+ resources include safe zone training, campus events like Transgender Awareness Week, and an LGBTQ+ resource center where students can access mental health support.

UA also demonstrates its commitment to the LGBTQ+ community through campus safety initiatives, which include ongoing training for hate crime prevention, campus police training on sexual orientation issues, and active outreach to LGBTQ+ students and organizations. The university trains staff -- including on-campus housing staff -- about LGBTQ+ issues and inclusivity. An LGBTQ+ mentoring program helps incoming students transition to academic life, while the school's Rainbow Graduation celebrates LGBTQ+ graduates.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

A small liberal arts college in Conway, Arkansas, Hendrix College was established in 1876. The school boasts numerous LGBTQ+ social activities, educational events related to intersectionality and transgender issues, and Unity -- an LGBTQ+ and ally student organization. Unity promotes community building and activism, with weekly meetings and on-campus events.

Hendrix offers a simple process for students to change their name or gender identity on university records. The college has a standing advisory committee that manages LGBTQ+ concerns and offers faculty and staff training on sexual orientation issues. Students living in on-campus residencies benefit from gender-inclusive restroom facilities, and Hendrix trains residence staff on LGBTQ+ issues. The college's student health insurance policy also covers counseling services and hormone replacement therapy for transgender students.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Located in southern California, Harvey Mudd College is a member of the Claremont Colleges and offers engineering, science, and mathematics degrees in a liberal arts setting. With a student population of under 900, Harvey Mudd offers an LGBTQ+-inclusive environment where students can pursue an LGBTQ+ studies program with specific LGBTQ+ courses. The school also recruits faculty to produce LGBTQ+-related academic scholarship and offers faculty and staff training on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Students can access a queer resource center with a lounge, library, and clothing collection for students. The center provides educational, social, and social justice events and programming for LGBTQ+ students and allies. Resources also include information on transitioning at Harvey Mudd. The school boasts gender-neutral housing and a simple name change process. Additionally, the college's student health insurance plan features gender reassignment benefits.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

LGBTQ+ students at the University of Colorado Boulder benefit from a variety of inclusive programs. For instance, CU Boulder recruits LGBTQ+ students through admission fairs, offers LGBTQ+ student scholarships, and welcomes new LGBTQ+ students to campus with a mentoring program. Students can choose LGBTQ+ living spaces on campus, with a roommate-matching program to identify LGBTQ+-friendly roommates. The university also offers an LGBTQ+ studies program and recruits faculty members who produce LGBTQ+-related scholarship. At graduation, LGBTQ+ students can participate in a Lavender Graduation ceremony to recognize their achievements.

The university also hosts a center for inclusion and social change, which provides safe zone training, hosts events, and offers resources for LGBTQ+ students. Learners can also access mental health and psychiatric services through an on-campus counseling center. CU Boulder offers a transitioning guide with information about housing, name/gender changes, and a gender-neutral bathroom map for the campus.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

A public research institution in the small town of Storrs, the University of Connecticut welcomes LGBTQ+ students and offers numerous resources through its Rainbow Center. For more than 20 years, the center has provided social and academic opportunities and services for LGBTQ+ students. The center hosts a mentorship program that pairs incoming students with returning learners to help new undergrads transition to life at UConn. The university also offers safe zone training and a Lavender Graduation to honor the accomplishments of graduates who contributed to the institution's diverse community full of different gender identities, gender expressions, and sexualities.

UConn also provides counseling and mental health services for LGBTQ+ students, gender-inclusive housing, and ongoing training for hate crime prevention. The Rainbow Center offers additional resources for transgender students, including a guide on the policies and practices of UConn. This guide discusses the process used to change names on university records, locations of gender-neutral restroom facilities, and on-campus housing options.

A public research institution that dates back to 1743, the University of Delaware enrolls over 24,000 individuals. LGBTQ+ learners benefit from several student organizations, including Haven, which hosts meetings and events to connect students. The university also offers LGBTQ+ advocacy, support, and resources, which provide ally trainings for students, faculty, and staff. Additionally, the LGBTQ+ program coordinator connects students with campus resources, advocates for students, and conducts one-on-one meetings to discuss problems. Incoming LGBTQ+ students can participate in the Lavender Welcome Reception, which connects new students with the LGBTQ+ community at UD.

UD offers all-gender housing and all-gender restrooms to create a more inclusive environment. Academically, the university provides an LGBTQ+ studies program, a list of faculty and staff allies, and an LGBTQ+ faculty/staff caucus that advocates for a safe and inclusive environment. UD also provides LGBTQ+-inclusive career services.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

The University of Central Florida enrolls more than 68,000 students on its Orlando campus, making it one of the largest universities in the country. The school's LGBTQ+ services connect students with l community members and resources, including guides for transgender students, a map of gender-neutral restrooms, and the Lavender Council -- a student advisory committee that promotes services for the community. UCF also offers an alliance mentoring program, which matches LGBTQ+ faculty and staff mentors with students. Mentors provide professional development support and encourage mentees throughout their academic careers.

UCF also offers a gender and orientation language diversity workshop and a coming out workshop; these provide forums for LGBTQ+ students and allies to learn and discuss challenges. Students can enroll in LGBTQ+ courses, and UCF recruits faculty specifically working on LGBTQ+ scholarship. The on-campus housing system trains residence staff about LGBTQ+ issues and helps students find LGBTQ+-friendly roommates through a roommate-matching system.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

A public institution with campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta, Georgia, Kennesaw State University supports LGBTQ+ students through a variety of resources, including a safe space program, a standing advisory committee for LGBTQ+ issues, and staff dedicated to LGBTQ+ support services. The school's LGBTQ+ resource center creates an inclusive environment and connects students to resources and support. Students can join multiple community groups, participate in programs and events, and access counseling services.

KSU offers the Safe Space Endowed Scholarship to support students who enhance the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. Students can also join Stonewall Housing -- a gender-inclusive on-campus housing community. KSU provides a simple preferred name change process and offers maps to gender-neutral restrooms on both of its campuses. Graduates can participate in KSU's Rainbow Graduation to celebrate earning their degree.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Located just outside Honolulu, the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa was founded in 1907. UH Mānoa's housing and residence life policies offer LGBTQ+ living spaces, roommate matching to help find LGBTQ+-friendly roommates, and gender-inclusive housing for students. The university also trains housing staff on LGBTQ+ issues. The LGBTQ+ center at UH Mānoa offers programs and resources for LGBTQ+ students, such as confidential meetings, weekly drop-in groups, and a safe zone training program. The center also hosts a Rainbow Graduation Ceremony to honor the achievements of LGBTQ+ graduates.

Prospective students can self-identify their sexual orientation and gender identity on admission forms, and UH Mānoa offers a simple process for students seeking to change their name or gender identity on university records. Students also benefit from LGBTQ+ counseling services and trans-inclusive-trained counseling staff. The LGBTQ+ center's annual events -- including National Coming Out Day and the Rainbow Graduation Extravaganza -- create a sense of community on campus.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

From its Moscow campus, the University of Idaho offers LGBTQ+ student support through its LGBTQ+ office. The office promotes a safe and welcoming space by providing several resources for LGBTQ+ students. These include coming out resources, such as an emergency scholarship for students who face a loss of financial support after disclosing their sexual orientation or gender identity. The office also promotes LGBTQ+ History Month, Transgender Awareness Week, and celebrates the lives of LGBTQ+ people in the U of I community.

The Gender and Sexuality Alliance at U of I promotes individual growth and supports LGBTQ+ people and allies. Additionally, the university's counseling center offers inclusive counseling and services for students struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity. U of I also conducts ongoing training for hate crime prevention, facilitates outreach to LGBTQ+ students, and trains campus police about sexual orientation and gender identity issues.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

From its Evanston campus on the shores of Lake Michigan, Northwestern University welcomes LGBTQ+ students by providing an institutional commitment to LGBTQ+ issues. The school offers many LGBTQ+ resources through its multicultural student affairs office. Northwestern's LGBTQ+ advisory board promotes a sense of community among LGBTQ+ students and offers events like a queer wellness retreat. The university's gender queer, non-binary, and transgender task force promotes support services for students, while the Rainbow Alliance -- a student organization -- helps build a safer community.

Northwestern also offers all-gender housing, all-gender restrooms, and a simple process to change a student's gender and preferred name on their university documents. The school provides LGBTQ+ counseling for students with staff who receive trans-inclusive training. Academically, Northwestern offers an LGBTQ+ studies program and other LGBTQ+ course offerings. It also recruits faculty working on LGBTQ+ issues in their scholarship. Students can apply for LGBTQ+ scholarships.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

The flagship institution in the state, Indiana University Bloomington enrolls more than 40,000 students into an inclusive environment. LGBTQ+ students gain support through the school's LGBTQ+ culture center, which includes an LGBTQ+ mentoring program for incoming freshmen. The school also provides private counseling to help learners deal with sexual orientation and gender diversity issues. Students can access free counseling services from trained counseling staff and access an LGBTQ+ library with materials and resources that are open to the Bloomington community.

The university supports LGBTQ+ students through multiple scholarship opportunities, including the LGBTQ+ Alumni Association Academic Scholarship. Student housing options include the Spectrum Thematic Community, which welcomes students across the gender and sexuality spectra. Most IU buildings, including campus housing, offer gender-inclusive restrooms. The university also provides LGBTQ+-friendly career services, including advisors trained in identifying queer-friendly employers.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Founded in 1847, the University of Iowa offers an LGBTQ+ studies program and course offerings related to LGBTQ+ issues. The university also recruits faculty working on LGBTQ+ scholarship. Faculty and staff receive training related to sexual orientation and gender identity issues. The school's pride alliance center provides a supportive environment for the LGBTQ+ community, while the university hosts multiple student organizations for LGBTQ+ students and an LGBTQ+-friendly living environment in its residence halls.

UI actively works to recruit and support LGBTQ+ students. The university participates in LGBTQ+ admission fairs and offers scholarships for LGBTQ+ students, including the trans student support fund, which helps students pay for legal name and document changes. UI also offers an LGBTQ+ counseling clinic and hosts an annual Rainbow Graduation to celebrate the achievements of LGBTQ+ students.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Based in Manhattan, Kansas State University is an LGBTQ+-friendly institution that enrolls over 22,000 students. LGBTQ+ students at K-State benefit from the school's LGBTQ+ resource center, which promotes equity, respect, and social justice. The center hosts programs and events to create a diverse and inclusive community. K-State also hosts multiple student organizations for LGBTQ+ students and allies. For instance, the Gender Collective welcomes transgender students and others with diverse gender presentations, and the university's safe zone program works to create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ students.

Students at K-State have access to campus housing that fits their personal identity, including LGBTQ+ housing options and gender-inclusive restroom facilities across campus. The university also offers multiple scholarships for LGBTQ+ students and a Lavender Graduation to recognize their achievements. After graduation, alumni can join the K-State Lavender Alumni organization to remain connected with the community.

A public institution between the Ohio River and Churchill Downs, the University of Louisville boasts several LGBTQ+-friendly policies. The university's LGBTQ+ center creates an inclusive community and acts as a resource for students. Prospective students can visit UofL for LGBTQ+-themed campus visits, which showcase the university's support services for LGBTQ+ students. The university also hosts annual Pride Week events, which feature movie screenings, a keynote address, and a resource fair.

Students can also participate in LGBTQ+-themed study abroad experiences offered through the LGBTQ+ center. Participants can examine the history of homosexuality in other countries and current political and social issues affecting LGBTQ+ communities abroad. Students can apply for multiple LGBTQ+ scholarships, including the Dawn Wilson Scholarship for LGBTQ+ Students of Color. UofL also offers gender-inclusive bathrooms, a Lavender Graduation, and an LGBTQ+ studies minor.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

With over 30,000 students at its Baton Rouge campus, LSU supports LGBTQ+ learners through its LGBTQ+ project. This project promotes safe spaces on campus and offers educational opportunities and events for students. It also hosts Rainbeaux Rush -- an annual celebration for new and returning LGBTQ+ students. At the end of each year, LSU hosts a Lavender Graduation, which honors LGBTQ+ students. Individuals also benefit from multiple LGBTQ+ student organizations, including OUTlaw for students associated with the law school.

Students can take advantage over 70 gender-neutral bathrooms, easily use their preferred name on their ID cards, and access library safe spaces. Students new to the LGBTQ+ community can participate in First Contact -- a peer mentorship program to support students. Additionally, LSU's career center offers workplace and career readiness resources designed for LGBTQ+ students.

A private liberal arts institution in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College earns high marks for LGBTQ+ policy inclusion and institutional commitment. Bowdoin features a resource center for LGBTQ+ students, a safe space program, and a standing advisory committee that oversees LGBTQ+ issues. The college's sexuality, women, and gender center offers an inclusive community on campus, with academic and personal development support. Bowdoin also offers resources for LGBTQ+ students interested in studying abroad.

Bowdoin offers roommate matching so students can identify LGBTQ+-friendly roommates. Many on-campus housing options provide gender-inclusive housing, with gender-inclusive restroom facilities. Bowdoin also trains its residence life staff members about pertinent LGBTQ+ issues.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Founded in 1856, the University of Maryland, College Park educates more than 41,000 students. UMD's LGBTQ+ equity center provides many resources and events to create an equitable community for LGBTQ+ students. Through the school's One Project, UMD provides programming for LGBTQ+ students in their first year, including a pre-semester meetup, a kickoff event called Quelcome, and a weekend retreat called Q Camp. LGBTQ+ students, faculty, staff, and allies can participate in the Rainbow Terrapin Network, which offers training and educational resources for the community. Additionally, the Lavender Leadership Honor Society celebrates leadership for LGBTQ+ social justice.

UMD supports LGBTQ+ students in multiple ways, including through gender-inclusive housing options, a counseling center with walk-in hours, and LGBTQ+ health and sexuality resources through the health center. UMD's counseling center also offers an LGBTQ+ support group for students.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Located just outside of Boston, Tufts University hosts an LGBTQ+-friendly environment. For over 25 years, Tufts' LGBTQ+ center has provided a safe space for students, with support in the form of advising services, educational resources, and events. At Tufts, students can choose housing options like the Rainbow House, which is an LGBTQ+-friendly environment that hosts social events and fosters a sense of community. In addition to an LGBTQ+ studies program, Tufts supports LGBTQ+ students academically through study abroad resources and career resources, including business conferences for LGBTQ+ students and a job board featuring LGBTQ+-friendly employers.

Tufts offers resources on LGBTQ+ internships, scholarships, and volunteer opportunities. The Tufts Queen History Project chronicles the achievements and challenges of the university's queer community, connecting students with their history. Learners can also participate in the questioning and/or coming out support group, which offers peer support in a confidential setting.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan welcomes 46,000 students to its campus in Ann Arbor and demonstrates a strong institutional commitment to LGBTQ+ support. The school's Spectrum Center hosts numerous resources and events, including an LGBTQ+ welcome festival at the beginning of the year, an LGBTQ+ health and wellness week, and an annual Lavender Graduation to honor LGBTQ+ graduates. U-M offers LGBTQ+ health and wellness care, including trans care, through the university health system. The university also offers crisis response and support resources, including guides to returning home for breaks.

LGBTQ+ students at U-M can access gender-inclusive housing options, which offer supportive community environments. Students can also access a map of gender-inclusive restrooms on campus.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities offers LGBTQ+ courses through its gender, women, and sexuality studies department, while the school's gender and sexuality center offers programs to support and advocate for LGBTQ+ students, including educational and outreach programs. UMN's mentor program connects LGBTQ+ students with student, faculty, and staff mentors who support their personal and academic growth.

LGBTQ+ students also qualify for multiple academic awards and scholarships, including scholarships offered through the equity and diversity office. The Queer Student Cultural Center provides a safe space for students, information about community events, and job opportunities. It also connects students with UMN's mental health resources for LGBTQ+ students. On-campus students can choose to live in the Lavender House -- an LGBTQ+-friendly housing option -- and UMN also provides maps showing gender-inclusive restroom facilities on campus.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

A public research institution in Oxford, the University of Mississippi was founded in 1844 and enrolls more students than any other university in the state. Ole Miss welcomes LGBTQ+ students through its center for inclusion and cross-cultural engagement. The university's UM allies training program educates students on LGBTQ+ issues and concerns, building a network of allies for the LGBTQ+ community. The M-Pride and Allies program hosts a Lavender Graduation each year to honor LGBTQ+ graduates, and the program also hosts Oxford Pride Week. The program's educational materials include infographics, brochures, and handouts to increase awareness and promote a more inclusive environment on campus.

The Ole Miss Chancellor's Standing Committee on LGBTQ+ Affairs advocates for policies and programs to support the LGBTQ+ community. The university's bias incident response team also addresses reports of harassment and hostile behavior/acts targeting the LGBTQ+ community.

A private institution founded in 1853, Washington University in St. Louis offers LGBTQ+ counseling with trans-inclusive-trained counseling staff, an LGBTQ+-inclusive health insurance policy, and LGBTQ+ health information. The university's LGBTQ+ campus life program also connects students with events, resources, and programs. For example, LGBTQ+ students can attend the Destination Q Retreat, which is a two-day retreat for undergraduate students focused on leadership and identity development.

Washington University also offers a leadership development award that recognizes members of the LGBTQ+ community who are committed to leadership growth. Multiple student groups connect LGBTQ+ students, including Connections*, which offers peer mentorship and support. Trained mentors offer support in a safe and confidential environment. Students can also join the Pride Alliance -- an organization that meets regularly to support students and create an inclusive environment.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Located in Bozeman, Montana State University is the largest institution of higher education in the state and offers numerous resources to help LGBTQ+ students. The school has an LGBTQ+ resource directory that offers education, advocacy, and support resources for students, including social programs and events hosted through the school's diversity and inclusion student commons. The commons creates a safe space for LGBTQ+ students on campus, where learners can receive counseling and psychological services. In 2016, MSU also installed 25 gender-neutral restrooms on campus, creating gender-inclusive facilities for students.

LGBTQ+ students can also participate in a mentor program that connects students or take part in multiple student organizations dedicated to LGBTQ+ issues. MSU's Chosen Name Pilot Project lets students choose a non-legal preferred name for university documents and resources. Students who participate in the pilot project can provide feedback on their experience.

Operating as the state's oldest university, the University of Nebraska Lincoln enrolls over 25,000 students. UNL welcomes LGBTQ+ students by providing support and services through an LGBTQ+ resource center. The center organizes programs and services to create an inclusive and welcoming community. UNL's LGBTQ+ peer mentor program connects students to mentors who can offer advice and resources, supporting their social, personal, and academic transition to UNL.

The LGBTQ+ center also hosts events like the Rainbow Ball -- an LGBTQ+-inclusive homecoming dance -- and an annual Lavender Graduation to celebrate the achievements of LGBTQ+ graduates. UNL also offers a scholarship for LGBTQ+ students: the Chancellor's Award for Outstanding Contributions to the LGBTQ+ Community. Learners experiencing short-term financial hardship can also access a special support fund. Students can enroll in LGBTQ+ courses at UNL or select gender-inclusive on-campus housing options, and UNL has a standing advisory committee that deals with LGBTQ+ issues.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

A public institution with 30,000 students, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas hosts numerous LGBTQ+ programs and organizations on campus. LGBTQ+ students at UNLV can join Spectrum -- a student organization that focuses on activism, education, and outreach. In 2018, Spectrum hosted the university's first Lavender Graduation event, honoring LGBTQ+ graduates and celebrating their accomplishments. Additionally, UNLV has a student diversity and social justice center that organizes events for LGBTQ+ Pride Month and hosts an LGBTQ+ dessert social to welcome back LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff at the beginning of the year.

UNLV also offers an all-LGBTQ+ floor in one of its residence halls, known as Stonewall Suites, which creates a gender-inclusive environment. Residents participate in gender-inclusive events and educational opportunities. The school's library has a special collections section that offers documents on the history of the LGBTQ+ community in Las Vegas.

An Ivy League institution, Dartmouth College strives for LGBTQ+ policy inclusion. For instance, Dartmouth lets students self-identify their sexual orientation on admission applications and provides an accessible process for students to change their gender identity in university records. The college also hosts LGBTQ+ student organizations and social activities for undergraduate and graduate students. The school's outreach peer mentor program trains students to act as mentors, creating a supportive community for LGBTQ+ learners.

Dartmouth's professional development center offers a list of internships, professional organizations, and scholarships available to LGBTQ+ students. The college's LGBTQ+ alumni association also connects students with career resources and keeps graduates in touch with the college community. Dartmouth's office of pluralism and leadership offers LGBTQ+ student advising, which connects students with on-campus programs and resources. The college also hosts a Lavender Graduation to celebrate LGBTQ+ graduates.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

New Jersey's Princeton University supports and empowers LGBTQ+ students through its LGBTQ+ center, which builds a strong community, hosts events, and offers educational resources. Incoming students can choose gender-inclusive housing options, which are available at each of Princeton's six residential colleges, and select an LGBTQ+-friendly roommate. Additionally, Princeton attempts to accommodate any student's need for a private bathroom in the residence halls.

LGBTQ+ students at Princeton can join multiple student organizations, participate in discussions and support groups, and earn a degree in gender and sexuality studies. Princeton regularly participates in LGBTQ+ admission fairs and offers scholarships for LGBTQ+ students. The LGBTQ+ center also provides information about the services and support available to transgender students, including health and wellness resources. Each spring, Princeton holds a Lavender Graduation to honor graduating LGBTQ+ students.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Founded in 1889, the University of New Mexico enrolls over 26,000 students at its main campus in Albuquerque and supports LGBTQ+ students through its LGBTQ+ resource center. The center creates an inclusive environment by providing safety, education, advocacy, and support. Students can join the UNM Queer Straight Alliance, which hosts social events and organizes advocacy events. LGBTQ+ students can also learn at the LGBTQ+ library, volunteer to participate in LGBTQ+ awareness events, and find a list of the gender-inclusive restrooms on campus.

The university's student health and counseling office provides additional services to UNM students, including counseling providers who receive safe zone training and offer confidential support to LGBTQ+ students. Since 2011, UNM has hosted a Rainbow Graduation to recognize the achievements of LGBTQ+ graduates. Students can also receive the UNM LGBTQ+ Resource Center Pride Scholarship, which provides financial support for LGBTQ+ students.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

From its Ithaca campus in upstate New York, Cornell University helps LGBTQ+ students through its LGBTQ+ resource center, which offers resources, information, and an inclusive community for students. Dating back to 1994, the LGBTQ+ resource center offers advising, mentorship opportunities, and programs for the LGBTQ+ community. The center also provides resources for parents and family members of LGBTQ+ students. Additionally, Cornell has gender-inclusive housing and accessible universal restrooms for students.

Students at Cornell can pursue a feminist, gender, and sexuality studies program and a lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender studies program. Both programs offer multiple classes on LGBTQ+ issues and themes. Students also benefit from LGBTQ+ career resources offered by the career services department, which provides information related to LGBTQ+-friendly job posting sites, scholarships, and resources on LGBTQ+ concerns in the workplace.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

A liberal arts school in North Carolina, Elon University welcomes and recruits members of the LGBTQ+ community. The school participates in LGBTQ+ admission fairs, offers LGBTQ+ student scholarships, and hosts an annual Lavender Graduation and awards dinner to recognize LGBTQ+ graduates. The gender and LGBTQ+ center at Elon offers resources and services to the LGBTQ+ community, connecting students with on- and off-campus counseling resources to discuss issues around identity development, sexuality, coming out, and gender transitions.

LGBTQ+ students living in on-campus housing can join a gender and sexuality living learning community -- a group dedicated to supporting students interested in gender and sexuality topics. Elon offers over 120 universal restrooms across campus, including a resource locator to identify gender-inclusive restrooms. Students can easily change their preferred name on university records directly through the LGBTQ+ center. Elon also regularly brings transgender speakers to campus to educate the community about trans identities and trans inclusion.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

A public institution in Fargo, North Dakota State University actively seeks to employ LGBTQ+ staff and faculty members, including staff dedicated to LGBTQ+ support services. The university also has a standing advisory committee on LGBTQ+ issues. On campus, LGBTQ+ programs create an inclusive environment for students. Programming includes LGBTQ+ Pride Month events, an LGBTQ+ student scholarship, and a Lavender Graduation to honor graduates. The university also oversees a safe zone ally program, which offers three levels of training.

NDSU also supports LGBTQ+ students through roommate-matching services to help students find LGBTQ+-friendly roommates. The university hosts support groups for LGBTQ+ students and offers the Amanda Weitgenant Scholarship to assist LGBTQ+ students financially. NDSU provides a map of gender-inclusive restrooms on campus.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Ohio State University enrolls over 60,000 students on its main campus in Columbus and welcomes members of the LGBTQ+ community by providing student organizations, social activities, and educational events on campus. Residential facilities include gender-inclusive housing with all-gender restroom facilities, and Ohio State also offers Gateway Gender-Inclusive Housing -- a residential facility for LGBTQ+ students.

Ohio State's LGBTQ+ initiatives, offered through its multicultural center, include events such as Bi Visibility Week, Transgender Empowerment and Awareness Week, and a Lavender Graduation to recognize LGBTQ+ graduates. Student support includes a first-year support group, a dialogues group to discuss experiences, and a mentoring program. The LGBTQ+ Leaders' Consortium meets regularly to address political and social issues, and students can learn about other resources and events online.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Located just south of Oklahoma City in Norman, the University of Oklahoma was founded in 1890 and enrolls over 31,000 students. OU's commitment to the LGBTQ+ community includes an LGBTQ+ studies program, active efforts to recruit faculty researching LGBTQ+ issues, and new faculty and staff training on sexual orientation and gender identity. Students benefit from the resources at the school's gender and equality center, which offers LGBTQ+ ally training to create a more inclusive environment and build advocates for equality. OU also hosts a Lavender Graduation to recognize the achievements of LGBTQ+ graduates.

The gender and equality center also hosts the Queer Student Association and offers counseling resources for LGBTQ+ students and sexual health resources. OU provides financial support for LGBTQ+ students through scholarships and a career center.

A flagship public school with over 21,000 students, the University of Oregon was established in 1876. UO supports LGBTQ+ students with inclusive policies, numerous services, and an institutional commitment. For example, UO provides gender-inclusive on-campus housing options and inclusive medical and mental healthcare for LGBTQ+ students. The university also grants need-based and merit-based LGBTQ+ scholarships.

LGBTQ+ students can access services and resources through the school's LGBTQ+ education and support services department. In addition to ally training and panel discussions, the office provides other educational resources to build an inclusive campus. The office runs student-driven outreach teams, which work with current and prospective learners. Groups organize regular LGBTea Times to connect with other students and hosts a Lavender Graduation to recognize LGBTQ+ graduates. UO also boasts an LGBTQ+ alliance and a weekly queer women's discussion group.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740, the University of Pennsylvania currently enrolls over 21,000 students. This Ivy League institution supports LGBTQ+ students by creating an inclusive environment through its policies and services. The school's LGBTQ+ center offers peer mentorship to support students and hosts events such as movie screenings, new student pizza parties, and a Lavender Graduation to celebrate LGBTQ+ graduates. One of the oldest LGBTQ+ centers on a college campus, UPenn's LGBTQ+ center has been supporting the LGBTQ+ community for almost 40 years.

UPenn's multiple LGBTQ+ student organizations welcome learners from various backgrounds; these organizations include FGLIQ (dedicated to first-generation, low-income queer students) and Out For Business (the business school's LGBTQ+ club). The LGBTQ+ center also grants funds for student groups to organize programs and events, as well as a travel fund to help students attend LGBTQ+ conferences.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

From its Providence campus, the University of Rhode Island offers undergraduate and graduate degrees as the state's flagship public research institution. URI's gender and sexuality center welcomes LGBTQ+ students with resources, programs, and support for the community. The center's events include the annual Big Gay Picnic -- a welcome event for students, faculty, and staff. The school also hosts an annual Lavender Graduation, which celebrates accomplishments in the LGBTQ+ community and grants awards. Additionally, URI holds an annual safe zone blitz week, providing workshops about issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.

URI students can choose to live in the school's gender, equity, and leadership in sexuality community -- a gender-inclusive on-campus housing option. The community's goals include creating a safe and supportive environment and addressing issues of equity. The school's gender and sexuality center also offers many resources, including a list of gender-inclusive restrooms on campus and a list of local LGBTQ+-friendly medical professionals.

South Carolina's Clemson University supports LGBTQ+ students through counseling and health programs. The university offers trans-inclusive-trained counseling staff, LGBTQ+-inclusive health information, and a trans-inclusive student health insurance policy that covers counseling and hormone replacement therapy. Clemson also offers LGBTQ+ programs through its multicultural center, including ally training and a National Coming Out Day Festival. Pride events at Clemson include a keynote address, a book discussion group, film screenings, and a queer scholarship showcase. Clemson's annual Lavender Graduation recognizes the achievements of LGBTQ+ graduates.

LGBTQ+ individuals can join student organizations or participate in the LGBTQ+ alumni group after graduation. The university works with students to meet gender-inclusive on-campus housing needs, including private rooms. Students can also participate in a roommate-matching service to identify LGBTQ+-friendly roommates. Clemson provides a list of gender-inclusive restrooms on campus.

A public research institution located in Brookings, South Dakota State University was founded in 1881. SDSU offers information and support for its LGBTQ+ students through its LGBTQ+ resource center. The center connects students to the SDSU Gender and Sexualities Alliance -- a campus organization that educates students about LGBTQ+ issues and gender identity. SDSU provides a list of gender-inclusive restrooms on campus and offers counseling services with a counselor experienced in LGBTQ+ issues. In addition to providing information about on-campus resources, the LGBTQ+ resource center provides a list of community resources, including LGBTQ+-friendly businesses, churches, and healthcare organizations.

SDSU offers an on-campus housing option for LGBTQ+ students called Allied for Acceptance; this community prioritizes inclusiveness. The campus also hosts safe zone trainings to educate the community about LGBTQ+ identities, with the goal of training allies to create a more inclusive community.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Located in Nashville, Vanderbilt University demonstrates its commitment to LGBTQ+ student life through LGBTQ+ undergraduate and graduate student organizations, regular LGBTQ+ social activities, and educational events on transgender issues. The school's office of LGBTQ+ life creates a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ students, providing resources and support on gender and sexuality. The office hosts several annual events, such as Welcome Week -- a kick off event to welcome LGBTQ+ students and allies to campus -- and a Lavender Celebration to celebrate the contributions of LGBTQ+ graduates. Vanderbilt also offers several workshops and trainings to educate the community and create a more inclusive environment.

The office of LGBTQ+ life also connects students with resources at Vanderbilt, including the university's counseling center, which provides counseling, wellness services, and referrals for LGBTQ+ students. The university provides information about LGBTQ+ health on campus through resources like the student health center.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Located just north of Dallas in the city of Richardson, the University of Texas at Dallas enrolls over 27,000 students. UT Dallas creates an inclusive LGBTQ+ community through its gender center, which hosts LGBTQ+ programs, Pride Month events, a Lavender Graduation, and an ally social to bring together safe zone allies and the LGBTQ+ community. The center also provides a list of gender-inclusive restrooms, a resource collection on LGBTQ+ themes, and information about changing a student's preferred name or gender marker on university documents.

UT Dallas also offers strong LGBTQ+ counseling support through its student counseling center. Counseling resources includes a gender and sexuality consultation team trained to serve the transgender and gender non-conforming community and a gender confirmation procedure to support students considering a gender transition.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

The state's flagship public research institution, the University of Utah offers support to LGBTQ+ students. This includes roommate matching to find an LGBTQ+-friendly roommate, gender-inclusive housing, and residence staff trained about LGBTQ+ issues and concerns. The school's LGBTQ+ resource center provides programs, resources, and support for LGBTQ+ students, including a mentorship program and events like Fabulous Fridays where LGBTQ+ students meet weekly to connect. The center also connects students with campus, local, and national scholarship opportunities for LGBTQ+ students.

In addition to its mentoring program, the LGBTQ+ resource center hosts Queer Peers -- a safe space for students and those questioning their sexual identity to receive support and information. The university's counseling center also employees counselors trained about LGBTQ+ issues.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Established in 1791, the University of Vermont offers undergraduate and graduate degrees from its Burlington campus. UVM supports its LGBTQ+ community through resources, events, and programs. The school's Prism Center builds an inclusive environment through education, advocacy, and community building, including welcoming new students with an LGBTQ+ event before the fall semester where students hike through Vermont's backcountry. Students can also choose LGBTQ+ housing options on campus and access multiple gender-inclusive restrooms.

UVM provides LGBTQ+ mental and physical healthcare services through its center for health and wellbeing. The staff at the Prism Center are trained to help LGBTQ+ students seeking care on campus. Academically, students can minor in sexuality and gender identity studies, and UVM hosts a race, gender, and sexuality conference every year to showcase scholarship on LGBTQ+ topics.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia enrolls over 24,000 students on its main campus in Charlottesville. The university is committed to LGBTQ+ student life and campus safety, and campus police receive training related to sexual orientation and gender identity. UVA's LGBTQ+ student services office connects students to the LGBTQ+ center and other resources for the LGBTQ+ community. The center hosts events such as an LGBTQ+ and allies reception, a garden party every spring and fall to kick off the semester, and a Lavender Graduation to honor LGBTQ+ graduates.

Students can choose inclusive housing and residence life options on campus at multiple residence areas. The school's counseling and psychological services office offers counseling services and support groups run by counseling staff trained about LGBTQ+ issues. UVA also offers multiple LGBTQ+ scholarships and awards, including scholarships recognizing LGBTQ+ students who promote social awareness and LGBTQ+ rights.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

From its Seattle campus, the University of Washington welcomes LGBTQ+ students by providing numerous activities and services. The school's Q Center hosts student groups, offers programming and events, and amplifies student voices through its blog. The center's events include an annual welcome luncheon; a Lavender Graduation; and Dawg Daze Events, which introduce students to organizations such as the Queer Student Commission, a for-credit discussion group called Queer 101, the Q Mentoring Project, and UW's gay and progressive men's fraternity.

UW also offers a gender discussion group, a queer mentoring program, and a simple process for students to change their name or gender on university records. New students can learn about UW and Seattle's LGBTQ+ history through the Q Campus Walking Tour. The Q Center also provides a resource database that includes on-campus resources like the UW counseling center and Hall Health, which provides health and wellness services.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

Founded in Morgantown in 1867, West Virginia University is the flagship campus of the state's public university system. WVU offers gender-inclusive housing options and employs residence life staff who are trained in LGBTQ+ issues. LGBTQ+ students at WVU benefit from the school's LGBTQ+ center, which offers inclusive programming and outreach initiatives. The center's events include a welcome back mixer; safer sex trivia nights; and Queer Mountaineer Week, which celebrates Queer Appalachia culture.

The LGBTQ+ center provides a resource packet, which includes information on the school's LGBTQ+ studies minor, various on-campus resources, and a preferred name request form. The school's LGBTQ+ commission also works to assess and improve inclusiveness on campus, including highlighting the contributions of LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

From its campus on the Chippewa River, the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire enrolls over 10,000 students. The school demonstrates an institutional commitment to LGBTQ+ students by working to provide quality student life and campus safety. The school's gender and sexuality resource center offers resources; education; and programming, including a peer connection and mentorship program, the Night Out Film Series, and an annual welcome week event. The center's training opportunities include bystander and ally training, safe space training, and Stand Up! bystander training to make campus more inclusive and welcoming.

UW-Eau Claire also offers multiple options for gender-inclusive housing, including Chancellor's Hall (an on-campus residence hall) and Haymarket Landing (an off-campus residence hall). The school's commitment to inclusive housing includes renovations to current facilities to offer all-gender restrooms and the LGBTQ+ Rainbow Floor.

Learn more at Campus Pride.

From its Laramie campus overlooking the Snowy Range mountains, the University of Wyoming enrolls over 12,000 students and offers numerous LGBTQ+ resources and scholarships. The school's Rainbow Resource Center builds an inclusive and supportive space for LGBTQ+ students by providing a research library, programs and events to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, and an annual town hall meeting. LGBTQ+ students can also join student organizations like Spectrum; earn a degree in queer studies; and pursue individual counseling through the school's counseling center, which also offers group counseling and outreach programs. UW runs a safe zone program to train students, faculty, and staff about LGBTQ+ issues.

The university recognizes and honors former student Matthew Shepard through the Shepard Symposium on Social Justice -- an annual conference dating back to 1997 that addresses social inequality. UW also offers the Matthew Shepard Scholarship to financially support LGBTQ+ students.