LGBT Office meets and greets students.

LGBT social kicks off a new semester

By: Derek Campbell

Posted: 8/25/08

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Office and the student-run organization Queers and Allies (Q&A) greeted students at a barbecue and socializing event as part of UMKC's Welcome Week on Aug. 21 at the Oak Street Residence Hall.

The LGBT Office, located on the first floor of the University Center, serves as a place to go for all students on UMKC campus.

"The office isn't just for gay and lesbian students," said David Greene, student services coordinator and sponsor of the LGBT Office and Q&A. "We have computer access for students to do work, and it's also a great place to just relax, play games or just meet new people."

Greene has been the head of the LGBT organizations on campus since 2006.

Renee Schloss, sophomore and president of Q&A, was also at the social, handing out t-shirts bearing the organization's new slogan "Be Yourself."

Schloss expressed excitement for the events of the 2008-2009 school year.

"We have a lot of new ideas this year," said Schloss. "We are going to do a cabaret show in the fall, and a brand new event for the spring that will be a lot of fun."

According to its Web site, the mission of the LGBT Office and affiliated organizations is to "promote the visibility of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community at UMKC, and to actively promote an inclusive campus culture as an integral part of the university."

The first meeting for Q&A will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Aug. 28 in the LGBT office.

For information on upcoming events, visit the LGBT office web site at http://www.umkc.edu/lgbt.

dcampbell@unews.com