University to host welcome event for new LGBTA graduate students, faculty and staff Aug. 17

University to host welcome event for new LGBTA graduate students, faculty and staff Aug. 17August 14, 2007Carol K. Masiclatclkim@syr.edu

New LGBTA teaching assistants, graduate students, faculty and staff at Syracuse University and SUNY-ESF are invited to a welcome reception on Friday, Aug. 17, from 5-7 p.m. at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Resource Center, 750 Ostrom Ave. The event is hosted by the LGBT Resource Center, the Graduate School and Open Doors, a graduate student group that promotes an honest and open environment for LGBTA students at SU. Straight allies are welcome and encouraged to attend. This event is free and will include a light dinner.

The event was created to provide a welcome space for new LGBTA graduate students, faculty and staff members. “This reception helps the newest members of our community connect with one another and learn more about the programs and services offered by the many offices and organizations that support the LGBTA community on our campus”, says Adrea Jaehnig, director of the LGBT Resource Center. “People who are new to the University sometimes have a hard time connecting with others and the University and surrounding community, which makes it even more important to hold this event at the start of the academic year.”

The LGBT Resource Center also offers a “Lavender Welcome” program, through which new LGBTA faculty and staff members are connected with other faculty and staff volunteers who are knowledgeable about the University and Syracuse community. “This is the first year that we will offer the Lavender Welcome program, and we are trying to get the word out to all new employees with the assistance of our colleagues in Human Resources,” says Amit Taneja, associate director of the LGBT Resource Center. Department heads and unit directors are encouraged pass on this resource to new staff members within their units.

For more information on the welcome reception or the Lavender Welcome program, email lgbt@syr.edu or call 315-443-3983.