For many LGBTQ+ students, finding a space where they feel safe and affirmed can be a daunting challenge, especially during the difficult transition to university life.
Grand Valley State University’s Milt Ford Legacy Collective: Rainbow Resource Center, located in Kirkhof Center Room 1161, is a spot for students seeking support and community. The center plays a crucial role in creating environments that encourage students to express their identities freely, build connections and access resources.
According to workers in the center, the colorful space, with different flags and artwork lining the walls, was designed to make students feel seen the moment they enter. For students who may not feel supported at home or represented through their academic programs, the center can be a place of consistency and belonging.
Annah Stang, a front desk assistant at the center, feels the space is welcoming and lively with activity.
“The Rainbow Resource Center is a space that is alive with conversation, resources and activities,” said Stang. “Students and I love being able to share our programming, library, snacks and space with newcomers.”
The center also organizes seven different evening clubs, such as General Queer Alliance and Ace of Clubs, to promote inclusion among small groups. Each club aims to provide a safe space for emerging identities to socialize in confidence and safety.
Similarly, the Rainbow Resource Center offers the Queer Connections Mentoring Program, which connects LGBTQ+ undergraduate students with faculty and staff to meet regularly over a six-month period.
D. Hollowell, assistant director of the Rainbow Resource Center, commented on what they deem the program’s success.
“Our mentors are incredible people,” said Hollowell. “We do a really meticulous matching process where we uniquely (assign) a mentor to a mentee.”
For many students, the mentorship offers guidance outside of academics. Mentors provide reassurance, professional insight and lived experience that help students envision their future where their identity and career goals can coexist.
Beyond programming, the center also serves as a steadfast refuge for students navigating campus life. Whether stopping in between classes, attending a workshop or meeting with a mentor, students have consistent access to a library filled with LGBTQ+ literature and educational materials that reflect the variety of experiences within the community.
“People crave that sense of community, and it can be difficult in college,” said Marshall Murdick, another front desk assistant. “I see friendships form through people regularly showing up to the space.”
By collaborating with the Grand Rapids Pride Center, student organizations and other campus offices, the Rainbow Resource Center advocates for inclusivity within broader university initiatives. Its presence aims to support both LGBTQ+ students and strengthen the University’s stated commitment to inclusion and equity.
