The LGBTQ Student Lounge, an extension of the LGBTQ Resource Center, is located on the fourth floor of the Student Union Memorial Center. It is the perfect place for students who want to find a quiet, ambient place to study or meet others.
“Even though I do work here, I still have used it just to relax and hang out,” said Desteni James, a department desk assistant.
Since its introduction, the space has undergone numerous changes to enhance its welcoming atmosphere and create a more spacious environment.
“During my freshman year, we were in a very small space. Just a few rooms away. It was very small and during my sophomore year we moved into the bigger space,” James said. “Because it is bigger, so [many] more people know [about the space], and we’re getting so many numbers.”
Chris Colby, a biology student at the UA, has used the lounge only three times, yet said they have gotten plenty of benefits from it already.
“I think this is one of the few places where I end up talking and making friends with people,” Colby said. “It has a very nice, chill vibe.”
Colby said if they could describe the atmosphere of the lounge in one word, “comfortable” would be the word they used.
In addition to a black velvet couch, the student lounge offers a variety of spaces for hanging out and studying. A diverse selection of books is available for checkout, and there’s also the Queer Closet, where students can take clothing as needed.
Everything in the Queer Closet is completely free. The closet has a wide selection of clothes, shoes and other items available to students and faculty. The Queer Closet is currently accepting limited donations.
Students can also access counseling resources through Sarah Hienzl, the LGBTQIA Resource Center embedded counselor. If you’re having trouble or just need to talk to a professional, Hienzl is there to help.
In addition to providing resources to students and the community, the department is working to increase its presence on campus by holding regular open house mixers and other community-focused events.
Sage Roxanne Packwood, a game design & development student, reflected on the welcoming atmosphere of a mixer at the lounge, where they met their current partner. Packwood described the lounge as “comforting,” and according to Packwood, the lounge has a quiet atmosphere and offers a welcome contrast to the commotion of the student union. They often utilize the space three to four times a week, as it creates a great place for both studying and creating social connections.
Renee DeVivo, another student at the UA, uses the lounge every week.
“I’ve met most my entire friend group here,” DeVivo said. According to DeVivo, the lounge is important compared to other spaces because it allows them to connect with individuals who share similar experiences and interests.
According to the mission statement of the Office of LGBTQ Affairs, their goal is “to work, to build, sustain, and strengthen a safe, inclusive, and open environment for students, faculty, staff, appointed professionals, alumni, parents, and guests of all gender and sexual identities.”
The space is not exclusively for LGBTQ individuals; it also provides resources for all students on campus. LGBTQ allies are encouraged to participate, as the lounge’s goal is to create a sense of community and inclusiveness for everyone. To learn more about the LGBTQ Student Lounge, resources and upcoming events, be sure to visit the LGBTQ Affairs website.
