Faculty/Staff Organization: LGBTQIA+ University Caucus
Description
The LGBTQIA+ University Caucus is comprised of faculty and staff that work in solidarity to create a safer and more equitable campus climate for trans and queer people.
If you have an issue of concern that you would like to bring to the attention of the Caucus, please send us
an emailIf you are interested in LGBTQAI+ University Caucus, please
reach outMission Statement
The mission of the LGBTQIA+ University Caucus is to promote the equity, empowerment, and success of LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, and staff by fostering a safe campus environment; developing, suggesting, and supporting inclusive policies and curriculum; supporting LGBTQIA+ recruitment and retention initiatives; and promoting social and educational opportunities to meaningfully engage with the University community.
Leadership
| Name | Pronouns | Role | College/ Department/ Office | Position | Term |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meg Panichelli | She/Her | Co-Chairperson, Faculty | Undergraduate Social Work | Assistant Professor | 2023-2025 |
| Beth Shearn | She/Her | Co-Chairperson, Staff | Academic & Enterprise Systems | Academic Systems Training Manager | 2022-2024 |
Function
The committee is charged with the following functions:
- Identify LGBTQA equity issues
- Work with appropriate campus agencies to create a safe campus for LGBTQA people
- Suggest, develop and implement educational programs
- Promote an awareness and understanding of LGBTQA issues
- Explore the possibilities of curriculum of LGBTQA issues
The caucus will make recommendations to appropriate channels within the University when concerns arise regarding these areas. These functions are in keeping with and enhancing the mission of West Chester University.
LGBTQIA+ University Caucus
Student Organization: Sexuality and Gender Alliance, SAGA
Weekly Meetings
SAGA meets are held on Wednesdays, 4:30pm - 5:30 pm, in Sykes 209
Please note: Our meetings are open to all who wish to participate both educationally and socially in a dedicated safe space. These meetings are not open for students who are fulfilling academic or paraprofessional requirements! Please
contact usdirectly and we can direct you to specific programs or trainings that would be more appropriate.
Office Location
Visit us in Sykes Student Union, room 220. The office sits in the back left corner of the CSI (Center for Student Involvement) on the second floor.
Speakout Program
The Speakout Program, now run by SAGA, is an opportunity for West Chester University's trans and queer students to share their coming out stories with their peers. To become a Speakout panelist, please contact SAGA directly by emailing them SAGA@wcupa.edu. An email regarding training for this will be sent out shortly. Please email
SAGA@wcupa.eduwith any additional questions.
Shades of the Rainbow
Shades of the Rainbow is a group that offers connection, support and community for queer and trans students of color. Meetings are on Tuesdays from 4pm-5pm. If you are interested in learning more about this group, please contact
SAGA@wcupa.edufor more information.
T-Time
T-Time is a closed discussion and support group for trans and non-binary identifying students. We meet once a week in Sykes Student Union. For more information about this group, contact
SAGA@wcupa.eduto learn more.
Student Organization: Gender Studies Club
Who we are
Gender Studies Club is a student led organization dedicate to creating conversations around gender for social change, although membership is not necessarily limited to Women’s and Gender Studies majors or minors; it is this club’s intent to be a visible group of committed feminists who share a common vision of equality of treatment regardless of gender identity, race, or sexuality. Gender Studies Club offers a variety of gender-informative programming to the West Chester University community each fall and spring.
Programs
- Educational biweekly meetings.
- Various fundraisers where 100% proceeds go towards differing charities (ex. The Trevor Project, WCDV, and more).
- Guest speakers.
- Game and movie nights.
Executive Board
President: Theodore Schaefer (he/they)
Vice-President: Kathryn Griffin (she/they)
Treasurer: Salleemae Chan (she/her)
Secretary: Ohanna Cadet (she/her)
Social Media Chair: Mars Libenson (they/them)
Meeting dates and locations for the 2024-2025 academic year are still in the process of being finalized, but people reach out to
wcuGSC@gmail.com, if you have any question!
Student Organization: Out in Stem (oSTEM)
Mission Statement
Out in STEM (oSTEM) is an international, professional organization whose mission is to empower LGBTQ+ people in STEM fields to succeed academically, professionally, and personally by cultivating unique, safe, uplifting spaces in campus communities that nurture innovation, leadership, and advocacy.
Resources
Benefits to joining oSTEM
- Have access to oSTEM national pre-professional resources
- Present/attend the annual, national oSTEM conference
- Join an LGBTQIA+ safe space community!
- Learn from our wise Dr. Ganas (advisor)
- Ability to run and vote for leadership positions
- Having fun!
Executive Board
President: Robbie Witikko
Vice President: Judy Ipock
Treasurer: Tyler Vidal
Secretary: Samantha Speakman-Viggiano
Social Media Chair: Faith Owen
Advisor: Dr. Ganas