TU Celebrates Queer Wellness Week

The week will promote mental, medical, physical, social and sexual health for its LGBTQ+ students

By Kyle Hobstetter on November 4, 2019

Queer Wellness Week Poster

This week, Towson University and many of its departments and organizations across campus will be celebrating LGBTQ+ health and wellness. 

From Nov. 4 – 8, Towson University will host is inaugural Queer Wellness Week across different areas of campus. Queer Wellness Week will feature events that promote mental, medical, physical, social and sexual health for LGBTQ+ students.

The week is sponsored by several different departments on campus including Student Activities, the Center for Student Diversity, Student Health Services, Campus Rec and the Counseling Center.

The idea of the week came together when members of these organizations met over the summer to discuss a way to provide support for TU’s LGBTQ+ students. The

“Last semester we chatted about it, and it was this nebulous idea,” says Erin Rook, assistant director, Student Development and Diversity and one the week’s organizers. “All these partners came together, and everyone has worked so well in putting these events together.”

Rook and the rest of the week’s organizers are so excited for Queer Wellness Week, that they are hoping to make it an annual event on campus. Each event is open to all students, as it’s a good way to learn about the resources offered to students.

“I’m excited to see if it takes off and how we can grow it next year,” Rook says. “We’re hoping to bring a lot of attention to queer health and wellness for all LGBTQ+ folks. It will also be great for allies to learn how they can support LGBTQ+ folks, and maybe learn some things about local organizations, resources and all the things we have on campus to support.” 

Here is a complete list of events for Queer Wellness Week: 

Panel: Finding an LGBTQ+ Friendly Therapist
University Union 313 (Unity Lounge) | Monday, Nov. 4 | 3 p.m.

A Q&A session on finding providers covered by insurance, getting the right therapist, and how to talk with them about difficult topics. Students can learn about what mental health services can offer you. Light snacks will be provided.

Fall Health Fair
Burdick Hall Lower Level | Tuesday, Nov. 5 | 11 a.m.

A gathering of resources and services designed to promote wellness and healthy behaviors. The event includes safer sex items giveaways, local businesses and vendors, and student organizations focused on health and well-being while in college.

Take Pride Ride! Spin Class
Burdick Hall | Tuesday, Nov. 5 I 4:30 p.m.

This inclusive workout will feature a playlist comprised of LGBTQ+ artists and queer pride themes. Whether students are a seasoned cyclist or brand new to the bike, everyone is invited to show their pride at this ride that increases well-being and support for the TU LGBTQ+ community! Register at https://www.recreation.towson.edu

Full Spectrum - A Queer Lecture Series
University Union, 313 (Unity Lounge) | Wednesday, Nov. 6 I 12 p.m.

The Center for Student Diversity’s LGBTQ+ Student Development program’s new lunch & learn lecture series this fall focused on the intersections of LGBTQ+ identities, issues, and experiences. Attendees are encouraged to bring a brown bag lunch to enjoy; the Center for Student Diversity will provide light snacks and drinks. 

This month’s presenter is Zosia Zaks of the Hussman Center for Adults with Autism at Towson University. The title of Zaks’ presentation is Gender Diverse and Autistic or Neurodiverse: What’s the Connection?

SexEd Without the Sex
West Village Ballrooms | Wednesday, Nov. 6 I 7 p.m.

Speaker Cavanaugh Quick provides a comprehensive approach to navigating sex, sex talk, and sex positivity as a queer person, with a focus on how communication skills can apply both inside and outside of the bedroom.

Wildflower & Weeds - A Lecture on Queer & Trans Resilience
West Village Ballroom | Thursday, Nov 7 I 7 p.m.

This talk is an exploration of how and why we refuse to be cut down. It looks at the power of community, of unwavering trust in our resilience, and the strategies we use to figure out how to keep growing.

Work, Study, POSE!
The Minnegan Room at Unitas Stadium | Friday, Nov 8  I 7 p.m.

Come one, come all, to the first ever TU Ball! Join different student organizations from around campus for a night of snacks, celebration, and absolute realness.

For more information about Queer Wellness Week, follow the Center for Student Diversity’s Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Students can get involved on social media by using the hashtag #TakePrideInWellness.

This story is one of several related to President Kim Schatzel’s priorities for Towson University: Diverse and Inclusive Campus.