Spectrum Center

Our Work

Spectrum Center Mission & Vision

With sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression as our framework, the Spectrum Center is committed to enriching the campus experience and developing students as individuals and as members of communities. Our work is accomplished through a student-centered, intersectional lens.

The Center envisions an inclusive campus community free of discrimination in all forms where social justice inspires community engagement and equity.

Pride Outside 2019, Photo by Hannah Brauer

Our History

This article provides you with a detailed history of the Spectrum Center and its evolution over time.


Support LGBTQIA2S+ students this Giving Blueday

Giving Blueday is the University of Michigan’s annual day of giving—where friends, alumni, and colleagues around the world support what they love most about U-M. Giving to the Spectrum Center this Giving Blueday, March 15, sustains and builds on our commitment to new leadership opportunities for U-M students and to provide funding for the programming that matters to them. 

Graphic with illustrated shapes and text: "Join us, Giving Blueday March 15, 2023"


Jim Toy Celebration of Liberation

You’re invited to join the Spectrum Center for the Jim Toy Celebration of Liberation, happening Friday, May 20 at 7:00 p.m. at the Michigan Theater. This event is an opportunity for community and friends to come together to honor Jim Toy, who passed away on New Year’s Day. Jim was co-founder of the Spectrum Center, and his legacy has been felt deeply across campus.

Jim Toy stands at the pews of a church with a smile on his face. He is wearing a plaid shirt.

Jim Toy, One of Spectrum Center's Founders, Dies at 91

Spectrum Center co-founder and U-M alumnus Jim Toy, MSW ‘81, passed away over the weekend at the age of 91. Toy was known as an outspoken activist and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and worked to establish the Human Sexuality Office in 1971, which later became the Spectrum Center. 

Jim Toy speaking at Lavender Graduation, 2017.

Howard Bragman creates million-dollar ‘coming out’ fund

Growing up in the Midwest in the 1960s, without a lot of peers or role models to look to, Howard Bragman never quite fit in.

“As a fat, Jewish, gay kid in Flint, Michigan, I always felt like a Martian,” he said.

That all changed when he got to U‑M.

Howard Bragman

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