I’m trans, nonbinary, or genderqueer; how do I let people know what my chosen name and pronouns are?
You have a couple of options depending on how out you are able to be:
1) BW has the Chosen Name/Pronoun Policy. If you use the Chosen Name/Pronoun form to disclose a chosen name and/or pronouns, BW will endeavor to use your chosen name and pronouns in all communications except for when BW is required to use your legal name (on bills, transcripts, etc.). It's really important that you review how the Chosen Name/Pronoun Policy works. Click here to review how the policy works. In order to access the Chosen Name/Pronoun form, go to BW Central by clicking here. Click on "Forms" and scroll down to "Chosen Name/Pronouns" under Registration and Records forms. Notice that filling out the Chosen Name/Pronoun form doesn't automatically change how your name appears in your email address or your ID, but the online form tells you how to make those changes.
If you use the Chosen Name/Pronoun form, your chosen name and pronouns will now appear in the MyRecords roster and (going forward) in Canvas.
2) If you're not able to use the Chosen Name/Pronoun form because it might out you in ways that are not safe for you, you have the option to let professors or staff members that you work with know how you would like to be addressed. Email the faculty or staff member and let them know the name and/or pronouns that you would like them to use when referring to you.
What should I do if someone misgenders me?
It's upsetting to be misgendered. Do what you can in the moment to work through your feelings of discomfort and upset. Later when you feel more calm, remind the person about how you would like to be addressed. Keep in mind that most folks misgender other people out of a momentary lapse of concentration or memory. They don't mean to disrespect you. If possible, try to extend them some grace. If you think that the person is purposely discriminating against you, then you have the option to file a discrimination complaint here.
Which residence halls offer Gender Inclusive Housing?
Residence Halls that currently offer gender inclusive housing are Carmel, Davidson Commons, Front St, Findley, and North.
Where can I find Gender Inclusive Restrooms on campus?
This map lists gender inclusive restrooms on campus.
Where can I seek out emotional support?
BW Counseling Services offers counseling to students. Click here to learn about their services. Therapists on staff are committed to supporting LGBTQ+ students!
BW Counseling Services offers a weekly LGBTQ+ support group called Living with Pride. Contact Counseling Services for more information about when and where the group meets in 2024SP.
Allies is BW's LGBTQIA+ undergraduate student group. Allies has an office in the basement of the Strosaker Union that features a nice Ally-Library of LGBTQ+ books and offers regular bimonthly events. Join the Allies Jacket Connect group for more information about upcoming events.
Where can I find financial support?
David & Frances Brain Center for Community Engagement’s Student Resource Center offers campus and community resource referrals including an Emergency Grant Fund. Click on the Student Resource Center menu on this page to learn more about the help they offer.
The Center for Inclusion also administers an LGBTQ+ Student Needs Grant. Contact Dr. Congleton, the Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, at rconglet@bw.edu for more information about applying for a grant.
If your family has removed their financial support, talk to the Financial Aid office about whether you can qualify as an independent student. Stop by One Stop or call them at 440-826-2121 to get their assistance.
What can I do if I have been the victim of anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination or sexual assault at BW?
It's important to file an incidence report! You can access the form here.
Get support from Counseling Services! You are not alone!
