5-star rating as LGBTQ-friendly campus
Liam Rhodes believes that at The University of Texas at Arlington, everyone can be “authentically” themselves.
“UTA is one of the best places for students to be unapologetically themselves,” said Rhodes, a senior studying social work, former Mr. UTA and current intern with UTA’s LGBTQ+ Program. “No matter their identity, they have a community here at UTA that supports them.”
Rhodes is not alone in recognizing UT Arlington as a campus that fosters an environment for everyone to feel safe and comfortable. Campus Pride—a national nonprofit organization working to create safer, more LGBTQ-friendly learning environments in higher education—has designated UT Arlington a five out of five in its Campus Pride Index. The index is an overall indicator of institutional commitment to LGBTQ-inclusive policies, programs and practices.
“All of the memories I have of feeling included on campus come back to UTA’s LGBTQ+ Program,” said Rhodes.
Since 2001, the Campus Pride Index has researched colleges and universities around the country, rating their campus learning environments for LGBTQ+ programs and their policies for inclusivity. Jessica Sanchez, director of UTA’s Student Advocacy Services, said it is “truly an honor” to receive a five-star ranking from the national index.
“UTA leadership and campus partners have truly embraced the LGBTQ+ Program’s vision of ensuring all Mavericks feel heard, seen and recognized at UTA,” Sanchez said. “I am taking this moment to celebrate a major accomplishment, and then my team and I are getting back to work to create an even more inclusive Maverick community.”