Gay Friendly Colleges in New York

College can be an immensely stressful and difficult time for GLBT youth, as the recent rash of suicides has shown us. Fortunately, there are a number of colleges and universities that go to great lengths to ensure that all students, regardless of sexuality, feel comfortable and welcome. If you live or want to attend school in New York, consider looking into these GLBT friendly colleges and universities of the Empire State.

Syracuse University

Syracuse University, located in the city that shares its name, has established itself as one of the most gay-friendly colleges in the country. According to the Campus Climate Index, which ranks colleges and universities according to their welcoming atmosphere, the school ranks a perfect five stars. They have a number of opportunities and resources for GLBT students, including a resource center, several student groups and activities, and a Queer Studies minor.

University of Rochester

This New York University, one of the foremost research universities in the state, is also very welcoming to GLBT students. For example, the university is home to the Pride Network, whose mission is to "create an open and secure environment for people of all sexual orientations and genders." To that end, they frequently host a number of social events that are of interest to and directed toward GLBT students. They also host an annual Diversity Conference.

Cornell University

Cornell University, located in the charming and thriving small town of Ithaca, New York, has created an environment eminently suitable for GLBT youth and students. Hosting the LGBT Resource Center, the university remains committed to its mission of a diverse student body. The center offers a number of services to students, including advising, advocacy, education, community development, and programming. They also offer a Lesbian, Bisexual, and Gay Studies program, which offers students the chance to learn about the academic side of GLBT identity and life.

Vassar College

Vassar College, which received a 4 ½ star rating from the Campus Climate Index, maintains an active and vocal presence on the college campus. Not only do they offer the standard run of social and educational programming; they also address various issues pertaining to the maintenance of a strong and welcoming campus community. All are welcome to the office, and they continue to work with all students in an effort to promote and enhance pluralism. There are also a number of GLBT organizations that call the college home, including the Queer Coalition of Vassar College and TransMission.

Sources
Campus Pride: Campus Climate Index