MIDDLETOWN, Pa. – Pride at Penn State Harrisburg, the college’s student organization for LGBTQ+ students and allies, has relaunched with new student leaders who said they are looking forward to being a visible presence on campus and providing a “brave space” where students can be themselves.
“There’s a sense of braveness that comes with being visible,” said Jeremy Boorum, a doctoral student in the American studies program who became president of Pride in January. “There’s a sense of braveness that comes with joining our organization — whatever stage one might be in their identity.”
Pride at Penn State Harrisburg hadn’t been active since before the pandemic, which affected many student organizations. But those organizations are important for students who come to college to find themselves and connect with others; and some of these students may be leaving unsupportive environments behind, said Evan Williams, the college’s assistant director of student diversity, equity and inclusion.
“So it’s crucial that these identity-based organizations happen,” he added.