The Spectrum Center Advocacy Board serves as a space for students to address campus policies related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Consisting of students who represent a wide range of academic levels, disciplines and social identities, the Board will examine the institutional climate for students and explore ways to enhance students' experience. In its capacity , the board will serve as an important resource to voice student concerns and ideas and to help guide the work of the Spectrum Center. Through involvement in this work, you gain the following skills that will assist you in other organizations once you graduate!
- An understanding of the organizational structure – how and where decisions are made
- Skills associated with making change in a complex organizational system
- An understanding of how and when to be resilient, patient and persistence during change processes
Previous accomplishments range from the implementation of the Gender Inclusive Living Experience (GILE), training with the Office of Admission Staff, addition of LGBTQ Health website link, and the development of resources for international LGBTQ students. Currently in process are 1) create APP for Gender Inclusive Bathroom locations, accessibility routes and more and 2) discussions of LGBTQ climate in Greek Life. Now in its sixth year, the board invites new members to continue developing well-informed proposals for change based on ongoing and emerging concerns, both shared and specific.
The Spectrum Center Advocacy Board will remain inactive for the immediate future. If you're interested in helping to restart the program, contact Roman Christiaens, Assistant Director for Learning and Development, at romanchr@umich.edu or call the Spectrum Center office at 734-763-4186.