Student Outreach and Support Services is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment for all students and to positively impact and improve the LGBTQ+ student experience at Boston College.
Through individual support, programming and outreach, we strive to support gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning students and their allies by creating safe and affirming spaces for self-discovery and acceptance around gender and sexuality, building community, and providing education and resources.
Meet Our Staff
Welcome!
We hope that this page helps you learn about the support, programs and events offered for LGBTQ+ students and their allies from our Student Outreach and Support Services and connects you to resources on and off campus. We are excited to get to know you and to support the LGBTQ+ community on campus to flourish with PRIDE!
Please feel free to email any member of our team or our general email, spectrum@bc.edu.
Need Support?
Part of being human and in community is sometimes needing support from others. We are here for you!
If you are in crisis:
If you think you are at risk of harming yourself or others please immediately call University Counseling Services at 617–552–3310, during regular working hours. If after hours please contact University Health Services 617-552-3225 and ask to speak with the PEC. More information can be found at the UCS website.
Other LGBTQ-specifc crisis hotlines are:
- The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386
- The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564
- Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860
If you are not in crisis:
The professional and graduate student staff in Student Outreach and Support Services are here to help. You do not have to be sure that you are part of the LGBTQ+ community to reach out for support and we support students with more than just aspects of their sexuality or gender identity. We routinely work with students who are exploring or questioning their identities and also with LGBTQ+ students who need support in other areas of their lives. You can call us at 617-552-3470, email: student.support@bc.edu, or email any of our staff directly.
You can also join us at our weekly discussion group, Prism.
If you feel that you have been subject to a violation of the University’s “bias-motivated conduct policy,” please also see information from the Office of Student Conduct regarding reporting any allegations of misconduct.
Pride Peers
Pride Peers is a mentoring program that pairs LGBTQ+ first year students and new transfer students (or any student interested) with upper-class LGBTQ+ peers and creates spaces to bond and reflect on sexuality and gender identity.
If you are interested in having a mentor, fill out this online form.
We will start our full program in September but we are happy to connect incoming first year/transfer students to an upper class Mentor over the summer so that you already have a connection before you come to campus!
Upper class LGBTQ+ students, if you are interested in becoming a mentor, fill out this online form.
We will outreach to mentors over the summer and schedule interviews and training prior to the start of the fall semester. If you have any questions please email: caroline.davis.2@bc.edu
Discussion Groups
Student Outreach and Support Services offers private, reflective, and welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ students to meet and engage in meaningful discussion around identity development.
Groups meet weekly for an hour and are open to anyone who wants a private and comfortable space to interact with peers exploring similar issues around what it means to identify as LGBTQ+ at BC and in the world. No appointments, formal arrangements, or commitments necessary--drop in whenever the support group is meeting and we'll be there waiting to welcome you with open arms, hearts, and minds!
QBIPOC Discussion Group- a group for queer, Black, Indigernous, and people of color providing support, discussion, and community. Facilitated by QBIPOC graduate students.
Prism -a group for all LGBTQ+ and questioning students. Facilitated by queer and trans graduate students.
Transcend - a group for trans, nonbinary, agender, and genderfluid students as well as students who want a space to talk about exploring their gender identity. Facilitated by nonbinary and trans graduate students.
Schedule for 2022-2023 Groups Coming Soon
Spectrum Weekend Retreat
Spectrum is a confidential, free weekend away for LGBTQ students. In this welcoming environment, participants will be encouraged to engage in conversation and reflection about their personal identities and to discern who they are and who they are called to be at Boston College and beyond.
The weekend also builds community among gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning students, staff, and faculty at Boston College. Every year, participants say that the retreat was transformational, with many claiming it was their best experience at BC thus far.
Space is limited, so we encourage you to register ASAP, as we reserve on a first come, first served basis with preference toward those who have never attended Spectrum.
Spectrum Weekend has left an indelible mark on the lives of many LGTBQ+ students here at BC. Watch this video of anonymous testimonials from past participants to see what so many had to say about their experiences on this confidential and free weekend away.
How much does the retreat cost?
The weekend is free!
When is the retreat?
February 2023 (specific dates coming soon)
When does registration open?
Registration for Spectrum 2023 will open October 31, 2022! An email announcement will be sent to the campus community announcing the opening of registration
How will the coronavirus pandemic affect Spectrum? What are your plans for ensuring student safety?
As of now we don’t know what the situation will look like come February. We do have the location booked and are planning to have the retreat in person. Nevertheless, we are already making changes to decrease student density in sleeping areas, rotate meal times, and spread out large groups. If the situation changes and an in-person retreat is not possible we have a plan to make the necessary adjustments to offer a distance-retreat online.
Who is encouraged to attend?
Any Boston College undergraduate student who identifies as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and those who may be questioning. *This weekend is not intended for allies.*
If I have attended Spectrum before, can I participate again?
Priority registration is given to those individuals who have never participated in the past. However, individuals who have previously attended Spectrum may register and attend if space permits.
What should I expect from this weekend?
You will be invited to engage in reflection and conversation about your personal identity and to explore who you are at Boston College and beyond. The weekend will also build community amongst LGBTQ+ students as well as provide faculty/staff who may be resources for students.
Who should I contact if I have additional questions?
Questions and comments may be directed to:
- Caroline Davis, Assistant Dean of Students, at caroline.davis.2@bc.edu or 617-552-3470.
- Lastly, you can email the Spectrum Weekend Leadership Team at spectrum@bc.edu.
After participating in the Spectrum Weekend, students will be able to...
- Demonstrate a greater understanding about their own personal identities by engaging in conversation and reflection in a safe and tranquil space.
- Display a deeper understanding of the significant relationships in their lives, such as family, friends, partners, etc.
- Articulate with greater clarity and specificity the role of faith or spirituality in their lives as a GLBTQ student.
- Identify supportive resources and role models in the Boston College community, including faculty and staff.
- Name new peers with whom they share common experiences, thus building a greater sense of community amongst GLBTQ students.
Spectrum 2023
February
Registration opens 10/31/22
Spectrum 2023
February 2023
Registration opens 10/31/2022
Lavender Graduation
Lavender Graduation is a celebration that recognizes LGBTQ+ students of all backgrounds and acknowledges their contributions to the University. Graduating LGBTQ+ seniors and graduate students are recognized for their leadership, successes, and overall commitment and contributions to the LGTBQ+ community. Through such recognition, LGBTQ+ students may leave Boston College with a positive final experience, filling them with pride both in themselves, and in their college experiences.
Date for Lavender Graduation 2023 Coming Soon
Community Events
Even when we can’t meet as a large group in person, there are lots of great events coming up for the 2022-2023 school year!
To stay up to date, join our email listserv or keep an eye out on the Division of Student Affairs Division News emails!
Clubs and Organizations
For Undergraduate Students:
GLBTQ Leadership Council (GLC)
GLC is a governing body of UGBC focused on GLBTQ and Allied Issues. GLC is committed to advocating for the betterment of the quality of life for all students at Boston College, especially those who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, through community outreach, policy work and educational, social, and initiative programming.
Contact: glc@bc.edu
Allies of Boston College
Allies of Boston College is a group of GLBTQ and straight students working to foster a more inclusive community for everyone.
Contact: Colin Marsh, Co-President.
For Graduate Students:
Graduate Pride Alliance
Graduate Pride Alliance (GPA) is an organization sponsored by the Graduate Student Association (GSA), for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender graduate students and allies.
Contact: bcgradpride@gmail.com
Website: GPA
Gaudete
Gaudete is a Theology and Ministry group that recognizes the dignity of each person and seeks to enrich the STM community with openness, acceptance, and fellowship by providing a space to dialogue and witness.
Website: Gaudete
Lambda Law Association
Lambda Law Students Association is an activist and social group that is dedicated to increasing awareness and support for the GLBTQ community at BC Law School.
Contact: lambdabclaw@gmail.com
SSW Spectrum
Spectrum is a student group in the Graduate School of Social Work to inform the larger social work community about diversity, homophobia, heterosexism, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
Contact: spectrumbcssw@gmail.com
View additional club and organization contacts
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LGBTQ+ Services and Resources
PrintGet Immediate Help
Get Immediate Help
Need Support? Part of being human and in a community is sometimes needing support from others. We are here for you!
If you are in crisis:
If you think you are at risk of harming yourself or others please immediately call University Counseling Services at 617–552–3310, during regular working hours. If after hours please contact University Health Services 617-552-3225 and ask to speak with the PEC. More information can be found at the UCS website.
Other LGBTQ-specifc crisis hotlines are:
- The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386
- The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline: (888) 843-4564
- Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860
If you are not in crisis:
The professional and graduate student staff in Student Outreach and Support Services are here to help. You do not have to be sure that you are part of the LGBTQ+ community to reach out for support and we support students with more than just aspects of their sexuality or gender identity. We routinely work with students who are exploring or questioning their identities and also with LGBTQ+ students who need support in other areas of their lives. You can call us at 617-552-3470, email: student.support@bc.edu, or email any of our staff directly. >>Link to welcome page with staff info.
You can also join us at our weekly discussion group, Prism. >> link to Discussion Groups or join any of our other programs or events.
If you feel that you have been subject to a violation of the University’s “bias-motivated conduct policy,” please also see information from the Office of Student Conduct regarding reporting any allegations of misconduct.
On Campus Allies and Resources
On Campus Allies and Resources
Athletics
Carly Pariseau, Associate Athletic Director
Conte Forum 308 | 2-6210 l carly.pariseau@bc.edu
Boston College Police Department (BCPD)
Jeff Postell, Lieutenant
Emergency 2-4444 | Non-Emergency 2-4440 l jeffrey.postell@bc.edu
Campus Ministry
Chris Darcy, Associate Director
McElroy 228 | 2-4957 | c.darcy@bc.edu
Ellen Modica, Campus Minister
McElroy 226 | 2-4665 | ellen.modica@bc.edu
Career Center
Joseph DuPont, Associate VP for Student Affairs
Southwell Hall | 2-3430 | joseph.dupont@bc.edu
Connors Family Learning Center
Kathleen M. Duggan, Director
O’Neill Library 200 | 2-0893 | kathleen.duggan@bc.edu
Counseling Services
Gasson 001 | 2-3310
- Craig Burns, Director l craig.burns@bc.edu
- Julie AhnAllen, Associate Director l julie.ahnallen@bc.edu
- Johanna Malaga, Senior Staff Psychologist l johanna.malaga@bc.edu
- Selina Guerra, Staff Psychologist l selina.guerra@bc.edu
First-Year Experience
Mike Sacco, Executive Director
Stokes 179S | 2-3281 | michael.sacco@bc.edu
Graduate Student Life
Hannah Chalufour, Assistant Director
Murray Graduate Student Center | 2-1855 l hannah.trost@bc.edu
Montserrat Coalition
Yvonne McBarnett, Director
36 College Road| 2-3140| yvonne.mcbarnett@bc.edu
Office of Health Promotion
Elise Philips, Director
Gasson Hall 013| 2-6833| elise.phillips@bc.edu
Office for Institutional Diversity
Patricia Lowe, Director
Brighton Campus, 129 Lake Street, Room 213 l 2-2323 | patricia.lowe@bc.edu
Office of International Programs
Samantha Lee, Program Assistant
Hovey House 105 | 2-0627 | oip@bc.edu
Office of Student Involvement
Claire Ostrander, Director
Carney Hall, Suite 147 | 2-3480 | claire.ostrander@bc.edu
Office of University Fellowships
Jason Cavallari, Administrative Director
Stokes, S140 | 2-9259 | jason.cavallari@bc.edu
Residential Life
Dorrie Siqueiros, Director, Residential Education
Maloney Hall, Suite 413 | 2-3129 | dolores.siqueiros@bc.edu
Student Services
Agnes Jordan, Associate Director, General Services
Lyons Hall 101 | 2-3318 | agnes.jordan@bc.edu
Thea Bowman AHANA and Intercultural Center
Fr. Michael Davidson, S.J., Director
Maloney Hall, Suite 455| 2-3359 l Michael.davidson.3@bc.edu
Undergraduate Admission
Grant Gosselin, Director
Devlin Hall 208 | 2-3100 | john.mahoney.2@bc.edu
University Harassment Counselor
Linda Riley, Executive Director
129 Lake 340A | 2-4714 | linda.riley@bc.edu
University Health Services
Madelyn Rivera-Bellino MSN, ANP-BC (she/her/hers), Nurse Manager
2150 Commonwealth Avenue, Room #020 l madelyn.rivera@bc.edu
Phone: 617-552-2659 | Fax: 617-552-3603
Women’s Center
Katie Dalton, Director
Maloney 441 | 2-6919 | kathryn.dalton@bc.edu
Off Campus Referrals
Off Campus Referals
Boston Alliance of LGBTQ Youth (BAGLY)
28 Court Square, Boston, MA | 617-227-4313
Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC)
989 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA
24-Hour Hotline: 800-841-8371
Boston GLASS
75 Amory St. Jamaica Plain, MA | 857-399-1920
Bisexual Resource Center | 617-424-9595
Fenway Community Health Center
1340 Boylston Street, Boston, MA | 617-267-0900
Sidney Borum Jr. Health Center
75 Kneeland Street, Boston, MA | 617.457.8140
South End Community Health Center
1601 Washington Street, Boston, MA | 617-425-2000
The Network/La Red (TNLR) 617-742-4911 (voice) | 800-832-1901 (Toll-Free)
Trans LifeLine 24-Hour Peer Support Hotline | 877-565-8860
The Trevor Project 24-Hour Hotline | 866-438-7386
Campus Clubs and Organizations
Campus Clubs and Organizations
For Undergraduate Students:
GLBTQ Leadership Council (GLC)
GLC is a governing body of UGBC focused on GLBTQ and Allied Issues. GLC is committed to advocating for the betterment of the quality of life for all students at Boston College, especially those who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, through community outreach, policy work and educational, social, and initiative programming.
Contact: glc@bc.edu
Allies of Boston College
Allies of Boston College is a group of GLBTQ and straight students working to foster a more inclusive community for everyone.
Contact: Colin Marsh, Co-President.
For Graduate Students:
Graduate Pride Alliance
Graduate Pride Alliance (GPA) is an organization sponsored by the Graduate Student Association (GSA), for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender graduate students and allies.
Contact: bcgradpride@gmail.com
Website: GPA
Gaudete
Gaudete is a Theology and Ministry group that recognizes the dignity of each person and seeks to enrich the STM community with openness, acceptance, and fellowship by providing a space to dialogue and witness.
Contact: Molly Minnerath [[link to minnerat@bc.edu]], Co-Chair
Website: Gaudete
Lambda Law Association
Lambda Law Students Association is an activist and social group that is dedicated to increasing awareness and support for the GLBTQ community at BC Law School.
Contact: lambdabclaw@gmail.com
SSW Spectrum
Spectrum is a student group in the Graduate School of Social Work to inform the larger social work community about diversity, homophobia, heterosexism, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
Contact: spectrumbcssw@gmail.com
Signature Programs and Events
Signature Programs and Events
Our office works to improve the LGBTQ+ student experience by offering support, education, outreach, programs, and opportunities for LGBTQ+ students including:
Pride Peers
A mentoring program that pairs LGBTQ+ undergrads with upper-class LGBTQ+ peers and creates spaces to bond and reflects on sexual and gender identity.
LGBTQ+ Community Dinners
Casual monthly dinners where all LGBTQ+ and allied students are welcome to come together to eat, chat, laugh, and foster our community at Boston College!
Discussion Groups
Student Outreach and Support Services offers private, reflective, and welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ students to meet and engage in meaningful discussion around identity development.
Groups meet weekly for an hour and are open to anyone who wants a private and comfortable space to interact with peers exploring similar issues around what it means to identify as LGBTQ+ at BC and in the world. No appointments, formal arrangements, or commitments necessary--drop in whenever the support group is meeting and we'll be there waiting to welcome you with open arms, hearts, and minds!
Prism -a group for all LGBTQ+ and questioning students. Facilitated by queer and trans graduate students.
Transcend - a group for trans, nonbinary, agender, and genderfluid students as well as students who want a space to talk about exploring their gender identity. Facilitated by nonbinary and trans graduate students.
Lavender Graduation
A celebration that recognizes LGBTQ+ students of all backgrounds and acknowledges their contributions to the University. Graduating LGBTQ+ seniors and graduate students are recognized for their leadership, successes, and overall commitment and contributions to the LGTBQ+ community. Through such recognition, LGBTQ+ students may leave Boston College with a positive final experience, filling them with pride both in themselves and in their college experiences.
Spectrum Retreat
A free, confidential spring retreat where LGBTQ+ and questioning undergraduate students engage in reflection and exploration of their sexual and gender identities with LGBTQ+ student leaders and faculty mentors.
Individual Support
Our doors are always open to anyone seeking support! Please call or email Angelique or Caroline anytime.
Information for Faculty and Staff
Information for Faculty and Staff
Student Outreach and Support Services (SOSS) is proud to offer training to any department or office that would like us to work with their faculty and/or staff to ensure competence and confidence when working with our LGBTQ+ students! Our sessions can be tailored to your needs in terms of length and content, and will cover many topics affecting LGBTQ+ identity construction so that you can be the best possible resource for LGBTQ+ students at BC.
Contact Caroline Davis or Angelique Bradford for more information.