About Us

Mission | Services | History | FAQ | Equity & Diversity

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the GLBTA Programs Office located?
   
   Klaeber Court 138.  We’re located on the East Bank in Dinkytown on 16th Ave and 4th St, across the street from the 4th Street Parking Ramp.
   
   
2. What does “GLBTA” stand for?
   
   "Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, ally".  The GLBT Programs Office was founded in 1993.  “Ally” was added to the name in 2006.
   
   
3. What is an "ally", and how are they involved in the GLBTA Programs Office?
   
   An ally to the GLBT community is an individual who works to support and affirm GLBT people while challenging traditional notions of gender and sexuality which are unnecessarily restrictive and oppressive.  Allies are welcome in every program and service offered by the GLBTA Programs Office.
   
   
4. What’s the difference between the GLBTA Programs Office and the Queer Student Cultural Center (QSCC)?
   
   The QSCC is a by-and-for student organization funded by Student Service Fees serving primarily students.  The QSCC “Safe Space” is located in Coffman Union 205.  The GLBTA Programs Office, a unit within the Office for Equity and Diversity, frequently collaborates with the QSCC in order to serve students, staff, faculty, alumni, and visitors of the University of Minnesota.
   
   
5. What happened to the Schochet Center?
   
   The Steven J. Schochet Endowment (pronounced Shok'-ət) no longer exists as a stand-alone center.  The Schochet Advisory Board, made up of students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community members, provides oversight of the use of the Schochet funds in order to build academic community through the Spear and McNaron Distinguished Lecture Series and the GLBT Studies Awards.
   
   
6. Why do we need to understand and support gender and sexual diversity at the University of Minnesota?
   
   Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and ally individuals are in every classroom, office, and event at the University of Minnesota.  To ensure an equitable and welcoming environment for people of diverse gender and sexual identities and expressions, the University must create as many opportunities for understanding as possible.