How the LGBTQIA Resource Center Is Preparing for the New Academic Year

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual Resource Center, or LGBTQIA Resource Center, is introducing a new education training initiative for the next academic year. This program will be tailored to staff and faculty, as the staff of the center say they want to make UC Davis a more inclusive environment for students.

The model of this initiative is based on a “train the trainer” structure, so those who are initially trained will be able to pass on what they learn to more staffers. Departments can also request training or a workshop on how to create a more equitable environment. This will be in addition to the center’s Queer Advocacy 101 training, which was a monthly program that covered the basics of advocacy and creating change within the community.

More information about the training will be sent out through the center’s newsletter and posted on its events calendar.

Blake Flaugher, director of the center, and Azisa Todd, assistant director of programming and engagement, noted that the center has been trying out new initiatives this past year, with student input. 

“We have a very high feedback, high collaboration process,” Flaugher said. “Nothing gets approved until it is proposed to the entire team and each program needs to be approved by the center team as a whole”. 

Todd added: “We don’t make decisions about the center without student feedback. The center is run through student fees, so we want it to reflect the needs of students.” 

The center has QR codes posted in the space that students can scan to provide feedback; organizers say they want students to feel as safe as possible in the center. When it comes to the programs they offer, of which there were 91 in the 2025-26 academic year, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. The center also conducts campus climate surveys in order to assess how students feel about campus as a whole.

They recently introduced a new model of holding quarterly, monthly and weekly events. Last fall, instead of a one-day open house, they introduced a new week-long event highlighting programs, as well as connecting with registered student organizations. They also had their largest Lavender Graduation event this spring, with nearly 100 graduates and 200 guests in attendance.

As many LGBTQIA+ centers across the country are closing their doors, UC Davis is home to one of the largest centers in the nation. When asked how staff could assist the center and make students feel welcome on campus, Todd cited ways that staff members can make their offices welcoming. 

“Having visibility in your office to show support, such as a pride sticker on your window, can mark your office as a safe space,” Todd said. “Even if you are not part of the community, allyship is critical.”