By: Haley Lane

West Virginia Wesleyan College is committed to creating an inclusive environment by addressing the difficulties LGBTQ+ students encounter and encouraging an accepting campus life.

LGBTQ+ students frequently encounter difficulties in college that may have an impact on their general and mental well-being. These students may find it challenging to feel safe and accepted in their learning surroundings due to problems including bullying, discrimination, and pressure to fit in. Colleges must create a welcoming environment that values diversity and acceptance.

All students, whether they identify with the LGBTQ+ community or not, benefit from an education that increases their knowledge of LGBTQ+ issues and promotes empathy and understanding. It is critical to offer support services that are suited to LGBTQ+ students. This includes peer support groups where kids can discuss their experiences in a secure environment and access to counseling that accommodates them. Support services for LGBTQ+ students significantly impact their college experience and inspire them to participate more actively in campus life.

West Virginia Wesleyan College has made significant progress in openly showcasing its support for LGBTQ+ students. The college provides a range of tools designed especially for LGBTQ+ students, such as student-led groups that promote advocacy and community, enabling members to interact with supporters. In addition, WVWC provides students access to information, support, and events centered around LGBTQ+ issues.

In an interview with Cadie Kittle, she addresses an active LGBTQ+ organization on campus known as PRISM. When asked about the importance of PRISM Kittle stated, “Having a space on campus where queer students are able to feel seen and heard is so incredibly important. PRISM allows queer students on campus to see the joys of our identities, empowering us to live freely and unapologetically. As a queer person, I feel safe on campus, and I can attribute that to having a strong community that stands for my right to exist here.” Kittle’s favorite PRISM event was the “Identity Web” where students on campus were able to visualize their intersecting identities and realize that they are not alone in their unique backgrounds and experiences. Kittle stated, “This event illustrated that we are not defined by a single identity and how intersectionality affects our lives and perspectives.”

West Virginia Wesleyan College’s dedication to diversity provides a positive example for other universities as they continue to negotiate the difficulties of student well-being. In addition to improving the academic experience for LGBTQ+ students, WVWC also benefits the campus community as a whole by acknowledging and addressing the particular difficulties they confront. The college’s efforts demonstrate a commitment to creating an atmosphere in which each student can flourish, resulting in a more dynamic educational experience.

Photo from Instagram @prism_wvwc