Counseling Center

Diversity & Inclusion

The Counseling Center values and celebrates diversity of our students.

Statement of Diversity and Inclusivity

We value and celebrate diversity of our students here at the Counseling Center. We stand with students who may identify with marginalized identities including but not limited to LBGTQIA+, BIPOC, and students with disabilities. We also recognize systems of power, privilege, and oppression impact our students’ lives, mental health, and academic success. We strive to provide a space where students can share and process these experiences and encourage students to bring all their identities into the therapeutic space.

 

Below are on-campus and off-campus resources for BIPOC students, LGBTQIA+ students, and students with disabilities.

Resources for BIPOC Students

On-Campus Resources:

Students of Color (SOC) Support Group: If you identify as a Black, Indigenous, Person of Color (BIPOC) student, this is a space for you! Join other students of color in this group to share your experiences both on and off this campus and build community. Support groups provide an opportunity to find community and support from students who may be facing similar challenges as you. Support groups are a great place to both share personal experiences as well as listen to and support your peers which can often create a sense of validation.

FREE food is provided for those who RSVP in advance. All BIPOC identities welcome! The group is facilitated by Purna Bajekal (SU Counselor), Santiago Rocha (SU Health Educator), and Geneva Walker (SU Counselor). Email Purna Bajekal for details.

Coalition of Diversity and Social Justice (CDSJ) serves as an umbrella organization to the registered 10+ cultural and social identity organizations at Southwestern University. Learn more about organizations here.

External Resources:

Resources for LGBTQIA+ Students

On-Campus Resources:

Trans & Gender Non-Conforming Support Group - This support group is for any students who are questioning and/or exploring their gender and/or who identify as non-binary, trans, gender fluid, or gender non-conforming.  This is a space where students can share their journeys, ask questions, create community together, celebrate their identities, and express concerns. The group is facilitated by Ashley Genty and Purna Bajekal (SU Counselors). Email Ashley Genty or Purna Bajekal for details.

SU Pirates for Pride (P4P)- A group created to foster a visible, tangible support group for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and Pansexual communities and their Allies.

Resource Guide for LGBTQIA+ Students at Southwestern - This guide was created by Pirates for Pride and has resources such as where to find gender-neutral bathrooms at SU, campus contacts, and other resources both on and off-campus in the Georgetown area.

External Resources:

Resources for Students with Disabilities:

On-Campus Resources:

Neurodivergent Support & Skills Group - Coming soon!  

Coalition for Chronic Illness - A student-lead group working to support SU students with chronic illnesses and disabilities. 

Center for Academic Success - Academic advising, tutoring, time management, study skills, disabilities and accommodations. (512) 863-1286

External Resources: