Stan State’s LGBTQ+ mentorship program offers support to students in the queer community by connecting them with mentors and peers.
Shant Rashidian (They/Them) (Writing Studies, Graduate) a mentee for the LGBTQ+ mentorship talked about how the program has helped them.
“The program has led me to be more confident in my studies, and by having a mentor like Professor Grimshaw, I feel like I can be myself. Also, I’m really inspired by all the great work the program does for others in the community,” Rashidian said.
Rashidian said regular communication with their mentor was an important part of their success, allowing them to ask questions and seek academic guidance.
They also shared their perspective on the program’s visibility.
“I see our community being represented really well. Also there’s not a lot of advertising or recruiting for the program. It’s very much word of mouth based,” they said.
Rashidian believes that the program isn’t getting enough publicity and deserves to have “a light shone on it.”
Dr. Matthew Moberly, a faculty mentor, reflected on his past mentees and the impact of the program.
“I’ve had two mentees in the program, and it’s been an absolute joy to see the journey of self-discovery they’ve both been on,” Moberly said. “They’ve both since graduated, and one is even returning to campus in spring to teach a few classes.”
The program also hosts activities such as the Queer Connect social gatherings, which provide opportunities for students and mentors to meet and build community on campus.
Information about these events is available at the Warrior Cross Cultural Center, and students who join the mentorship program can receive updates through its Canvas page.
Moberly noted that the mentorship program is still recovering from challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I want the program to grow and be more visible around campus. I’m sure many students reading this don’t even know this program existed,” he said. “We used to have a vision, a direction, a committed community of faculty and staff but we haven’t been able to bounce back after the pandemic.”
Daniela Macias (Creative Media, Junior) shared her perspective on the program. Although she is not part of the queer community at Stan State, she expressed support for the program’s mission.
“I would be interested in supporting the club. I am a big supporter of human rights, and I believe that everyone has the right to love who they want.” Macias said.
