WVU offers support services for underrepresented student populations. (WVU Photo)
As students adjust to new norms brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic this semester, both academically and socially, West Virginia University has support services in place for undergraduate students who may have been disproportionately affected by the changes, including students with disabilities, first generation students and others from underrepresented populations.
The Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the LGBTQ+ Center and Student Support Services/TRIO are some of the many units across campus that are committed to ensuring students feel safe, included and supported as they return to campus this fall.
Quotes and comments
“Just like the start of every academic year, the LGBTQ+ Center is eager to welcome all students back to WVU and ensure they return to a friendly, inclusive environment. This semester, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, almost all of our programming will be conducted virtually. However, students will still be able to join weekly discussion groups and other special online events via Zoom. Safe zone workshops, anti-racist and gender inclusiveness trainings, health and safer sex classes, along with additional outreach and programming will be regularly offered, as well. Although campus may look different this year, our goal is to foster a greater sense of community, inclusion and connection during these socially distant times. We look forward to meeting many new people while reconnecting with our friends and allies.” – Ellen Rodrigues, Interim Director, LGBTQ+ Center
“Even though this fall will be different than anyone has experienced before, we are excited to offer our undergrads from first-generation, income-eligible backgrounds, as well as our students with disabilities, virtual services and programming that will allow them to enhance skills, while making connections with other students from similar backgrounds. Along with our personal one-on-one meetings, tutoring, mentoring sessions and “How-To” workshops, we will be hosting game nights, coffee talks, paint parties and service activities throughout the semester. Yes, this year may bring on new challenges for all of us, but we are ready and excited to start the school year stronger than ever.” – Cindy Drumm, Director, Student Support Services/TRIO
“Each WVU student – regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or gender identity, sex, religion, disability, socioeconomic status and sexuality – deserves respect and the opportunity to live and learn in an atmosphere that allows them to reach their full potential and pursue their individual goals and dreams free of harassment or discrimination. Remembering and honoring WVU’s values of service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation are what it means to be a Mountaineer. We invite the campus community to partner with us through diversity events, peer-to-peer activities, trainings and mentorship programs. For health and safety purposes, all DEI events this semester will be held virtually. Welcome to Fall 2020, Mountaineers. Let’s GO!”– Meshea L. Poore, Vice President, Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Resources
LGBTQ+ community
- LGBTQ+ Center resources
- Spectrum
- Center for Women’s and Gender Studies
- OUTLaw
- SHAPE
- True Colors Community
Underrepresented populations
- Student Support Services
- RISE WVU
- M-Power
- WVU Diversity Week
- Equity Assurance, Title IX and ADA
- Diversity Ambassadors
- Peer Advocates
- Academic DEI Committees
- WELLWVU
- Office of Student Success
Disability Services
Target audiences
- Undergraduate students
- LGBTQ+ community
- First generation students
- Financial aid students
- Students of color
- Underrepresented students
-WVU-
ks/08/18/20
CONTACT: Katie Farmer
Communications Director and Marketing Strategist
Office of the Provost
304-293-1066; katie.longo@mail.wvu.edu
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