Baylor University, a private Christian institution in Texas, recently chartered the school’s first LGBTQ student organization, Prism. The decision marks a major milestone for LGBTQ students who have long advocated for the creation of an official campus organization to bolster their voices.
The choice to charter the group aligns with Baylor’s goal of creating a “caring Christian community” for all students, Matt Burchett, assistant dean of philanthropic engagement and senior director of student activities, told the Baylor Lariat, the university’s student newspaper.
“It’s a really significant day in the history of Baylor University to charter our first LGBTQ-focused student organization,” he told the publication. “I’m really proud of the students, their courage, their insight, their ability to navigate a very complex situation and ultimately come to this really incredible outcome of chartering a student organization that will support LGBTQ students for generations to come.”
The chartering process began in the fall 2021 semester with several listening sessions between students, faculty, and administrators. So far, Prism leaders say they have received only positive feedback from the campus community about the group’s formation.
The organization will soon offer initiative interest meetings, with plans to later host education meetings, formals, and socials similar to other student organizations, Prism co-president Lor Duncan told the student newspaper.
“We really just want to create a space and a community where students can engage in safe, respectful conversation about sexuality, gender identity and how that can intersect with faith and spirituality,” Duncan said.
