Philadelphia's Temple University Creates a LGBT Alumni Organization

Diversity is nothing new to Philadelphia's Temple University; their eclectic mix of students, faculty and graduates has always been a point of pride. To create a campus that values diversity in background, lifestyle and thought, Temple is reaching out to its alumni by establishing shared interest groups appealing to select populations of its graduates.

To reconnect individuals to the university while meeting the needs of diverse groups, last year the Temple Alumni Association developed a regional club system that extends from coast to coast and two affinity clubs. Both affinity groups, the Black Alumni Alliance (TUBAA) and the Young Alumni (TUYA) are alive and thriving; the same is expected for the now forming Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Alumni (LGBTA) group.

According to Marena Ariffin, Ast. Director of Alumni Relations, augmenting the traditional groups was a no-brainer. "Class reunions are not as appealing as they used to be," she says, "so we identify a common ground that connects them to Temple and to each other."

"The goal is to reconnect graduates to the school," explains Michael Williams, a '93 graduate and founding member of the LGBTA. "Over the years, there has been a disconnect between grads and Temple. Many alumni who have lost touch." Williams, a member of Mayor Street's LGBT Advisory Board, is devoted to the success of Temple's LGBTA. "My heart's at Temple," he explains, "and I know that Temple needs more involvement. As an openly gay member of Temple's Board of Trustees, it is important to show leadership."

Williams believes the LGBTA will impact an even wider audience than the Temple community. "There are so many LGBT alumni in every aspect of Philly life: government, private and public sectors. As part of Philadelphia's community, we can bring vitality and resources to Temple by drawing in alumni to invest in the future of LGBT students."

To begin building this network of LGBT alumni to serve as mentors and leaders, Temple's LGBTA hosted its first reunion during homecoming weekend this year. On October 6, LGBT alumni gathered for a reception to connect with former peers, forgotten classmates and old friends. Although the initial turn-out was small, all in attendance were excited to be the first to prarticipate in such an exciting endeavor. The LGBTA are already busy planning future events for the next coming year.

Williams' goal for the Temple LGBTA is to bridge the gap between current students and grads. "The group will be a mentoring source for students. We've gone through struggles to make it easier for them; we can be a source for career advice or for personal problems."

For more info on Temple's LGBTA and other alumni groups, myowlspace.com or call the alumni center at 215-204-7521.