Attend LGBTQ+ Signature and Annual Programs

Welcome Reception

Each fall the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity hosts their Welcome Reception, inviting the entire Penn State LGBTQ+ community and their allies to explore all that is offered to new and returning students. This year's welcome will include University offices, units, and student groups sending messages of welcome and discussing the resources they offer to LGBTQ+ students. 

Monday August 28, 2023 | 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. | Alumni Hall 

LGBTQ+ HISTORY MONTH

October is LGBTQ+ History Month! LGBTQ+ History Month is a month-long celebration that is nationally recognized. At Penn State, we celebrate the month with a variety of speakers, events, and workshops.

Memories of a Penitent Heart Film Screening | Wednesday October 4, 2023 | 6:30 p.m. | Foster Auditorium

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month and LGBTQ History Month, join us for a screening of the documentary, Memories of a Penitent Heart. This documentary explores the life and family drama of a gay, Latino man who died of AIDS.  

Coming Out Day Celebration | Wednesday October 11, 2023 | 10:00 a.m. to 1:00p.m. | HUB LL011

Stop by the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity to celebrate National Coming Out Day with snacks, activities, and music.  

Queer Theory and Intersectionality | Monday October 16, 2023 | 5:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join graduate student, Gabriel Pulido, from the Higher Education program for an important conversation about Queer Theory and how student organizations serving minoritized communities can frame their process and events from an intersectional lens. 

Being, Believing, Belonging: Religious InQueeries | Tuesday October 17, 2023 | 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. | 104 Pasquerilla Spiritual Center

Hosted by the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development, join this joint conversation as we talk about the overlap of faith and spirituality with LGBTQ+ identities.  

Active and Proud Discussion | Tuesday October 17, 2023 | 6:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity, Health Promotion and Wellness, Campus Recreation, & Kinesiology for an interactive discussion about physical activity among LGBTQ students, and learn about the resources on campus. 

International Pronouns Day | Wednesday October 18, 2023 | 10:00 a.m. to 1:00p.m. | HUB Information Table 2

Stop by our table in the HUB Main Lounge to learn more about pronouns and why they matter, and pick up a button or t-shirt! 

LGBTQ+ Center Awareness Day | Thursday October 19, 2023 | 1:00 p.m. to 3:00p.m. | HUB LL011

Learn more about the staff members of the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity both online and in person! Check out our Instagram page on this date for bios and fun facts about our professional staff. Stop by in person to chat and enjoy some snacks and great conversation.

PrEP info Session with AIDS Resource | Tuesday October 24, 2023 | 12:00 p.m. to 1:30p.m. | HUB L011

Got questions about PrEP and HIV prevention? Come learn more from an LGBTQ clinician, and get your sexual health questions answered! 

Transgender Awareness Month

November is Transgender Awareness Month--a time to celebrate the transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse communities.

Gender Mood Board Craft | Tuesday November 7, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

Our gender expression is how we present ourselves to the world. Come join us for a reflective craft activity that prompts attendees to think about their relationship to gender. Make a mood board with pictures, stickers, and other items that help describe your expression style and showcase your own individuality. 

We Exist: Beyond the Gender Binary Film Screening | Wednesday November 8, 2023 | 6:00 p.m. | Foster Auditorium

What if the world told you that you don't exist? For many gender non-conforming individuals, this is the reality. WE EXIST: Beyond the Binary is one of the first films to document this growing community living life “beyond the binary” construct of gender, offering a first-hand account of what it is like to exist as other than strictly male or female. 

LGBTQ Poetry Reading Night  | Monday November 13, 2023 | 6:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

In the spirit of unity, diversity, and artistic exploration, we invite you to come together and experience the power of words that illuminate the rich colors of LGBTQ+ voices in collaboration with the Graduates in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. You are most welcome to share your unique perspectives, shedding light on the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing journey towards equality with your own words and poems or cite the words of a queer poet.  

Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil   | Tuesday November 14, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. | Flex Theatre

Join us to honor and remember those who have been killed because of anti-transgender and non-binary bigotry, hatred and violence. We will be saying the names of those who have been killed this past year because of their perceived gender identity and/or expression. Join with us in community for this moving ceremony, followed by a reception in HUB LL011. 

Black History Month

A Celebration of Black Queer History Display | All February. | HUB LL011

With newly created panels of information, students can learn more at their own pace. There are integrated opportunities to interact with the display, whether that be through posing articulated figures in vogue fashion, flipping through artwork and literary works from black queer authors, or engaging with a curated playlist from the CSGD. 

Ballroom Culture 101 | Thursday February 8, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join the CSGD  to learn about the history of ball and LGBTQ+ culture with us! This event will include an introductory presentation as well as an opportunity to 'walk' in the center. Students are invited to come dressed in a category of their choosing. 

Black History Mobile Museum | Wednesday February 21, 2024 | 10:00 a.m. | HUB 129abc

This year the Office of Student Leadership & Involvement is proud to celebrate Black History Month by bringing the Black History 101 Mobile Museum to campus! Come to HUB 129ABC to view the mobile museum with artifacts from slavery all the way to the culture of hip-hop. There will be a lecture from 12-1, and food will be provided.  

Rustin Film Screening | Wednesday February 21, 2024 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB Flex Theater

Join the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity for a screening of the film, Rustin. Activist Bayard Rustin faces racism and homophobia as he helps change the course of Civil Rights history by orchestrating the 1963 March on Washington. 

Women's History Month

Gym Playlist Making with Girl Gains | Wednesday March 20, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join us in recognition for Women’s History Month as we partner with the student organization, Girl Gains! Students are invited to learn more about the organization and discover new music produced or written by female artists as we build ourselves a personal playlist that can be used working out and making gains! 

CSGD Celebrates Pride Month

HUB Takeover | Wednesday April 3, 2024 | 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. | HUB Robeson Building

Celebrate Pride Month in the HUB-Robeson Center! Join the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity, student groups, campus and community partners in celebrating pride! Learn more about resources, dance with our DJ, or win big in drag bingo! 

Karao-Gay | Friday April 5, 2024 | 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. | HUB 008, Lion's Lair

It's Karaoke (or should we say Karao-Gay) time! Show off your karaoke skills or be part of the audience. Join the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity as we celebrate pride with snacks and LGBTQ+ themed karaoke! 

March and Reception | Tuesday April 9, 2024 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Starting at HUB LL011

Join us as we come together as a community to celebrate the pride of the LGBTQA+ population at Penn State and beyond. We will march as a group to the iconic Old Main steps for photos before returning to the HUB and sharing stories of the meaning of pride. 

GaySL: A crash course in LGBTQ American Sign Language and Intersectionality 

With Hayden Kristal  | Wednesday April 17, 2024 | 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | HUB Flex Theater

This highly interactive, variable, and hilarious workshop teaches its participants LGBTQ-related American Sign Language signs while fostering a group discussion about Deaf culture, intersectionality, accessibility and more. 

Hayden Kristal: Comedy Show | Wednesday April 17, 2024 | 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. | HUB Flex Theater

Hayden Kristal (They/them/theirs) is a Deaf, bisexual, Jewish, queer activist and stand-up comedian. Living their life at the intersection of multiple marginalized identities led them to a career as a professional speaker exploring the intersections of disability, gender, sexuality, particularly within the spheres of activism and social justice. They have brought their funny, engaging, and interactive workshops and speeches to dozens of conferences and schools all across North America. Hayden’s quick wit and cheerful self-deprecation has earned them plenty of comedic accolades as well, including over 690,000 followers on TikTok, a semifinalist spot on America's Got Talent, and a guest role on Netflix & Adult Swim’s Tuca and Bertie. Hayden has been a semifinalist for Stand Up NBC, a finalist for Full Frontal with Samantha Bee’s Comedy Writing Mentorship, a featured performer at Limestone Comedy Festival, and has opened and featured for Maria Bamford.

Health and Wellness in the LGBTQ+ community: The Importance of Gender-affirming Care   | Thursday April 18, 2024 | 6:00 -8:30 p.m. | The State Theatre 

The Borough of State College, Community Conferencing, Centre LGBT+ and the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity are excited to announce the second event in our 2024 Community Conversations Series. Our topic will be: Health and Wellness in the LGBT+ Community: The Importance of Gender-Affirming Care. Join us for a panel discussion and restorative circle.  

Super Gay 5K | Saturday April 20, 2024 | 9:00 a.m. | Starting at Pollock entrance of the HUB

Get ready for our annual, Super Gay 5K! Run or walk our designated route across campus to show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ population at Penn State. Register here by April 1st. 

Graduate Student Pride Mixer  | Tuesday April 23, 2024 | 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. | Chumley's

We invite Queer, Trans, and allied graduate students to join the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity and Graduates of Women Gender and Sexuality Studies for free food, conversation, and community as we celebrate Pride! 

Pride Prom: Decadent Decades | Thursday April 25, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. | HUB Alumni Hall

The CSGD will be hosting the annual Penn State Pride Prom (formerly known as Gayla). This year's theme is Decades! This night serves as a second chance prom for anyone who did not feel comfortable at their high school prom or for anyone who could not be their authentic selves. We welcome everyone here and celebrate the diversity of our LGBTQ+ Penn State community. 

Get OUTside for Pride  | Saturday April 27, 2024 | 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Stone Valley Recreation

Take a brain break at Stone Valley and enjoy climbing, kayaking, hiking, and lawn games! Registration is required as space is limited.  

Lavender Graduation

Lavender Graduation is an annual celebration that recognizes Penn State's LGBTQ+ students and acknowledges their achievements and contributions to the University. It is an inspiring and affirming ceremony that celebrates the achievements of graduate and undergraduate students in the LGBTQ+ community from all the Penn State campuses. This year the ceremony will take place on April 12, 2024 at 6:00pm in Heritage Hall. 

The ceremony includes recognition of scholarship awardees, campus awards, and a time to thank significant supporters. In recognition of their achievements, graduates receive a rainbow tassel, stole, and graduation certificate. 

Who can participate?
Students from any Penn State campus who have graduated the winter prior to the ceremony or will be graduating the spring, summer, or winter after the ceremony.  Lavender Graduation is open to all students regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race, or any other protected class.

Who can attend? 
Anyone can attend the ceremony! We encourage graduates to bring friends, family, and other supporters to the ceremony. Attendees may also attend if they want to support the graduating class as a whole, even if they do not have a specific student they are supporting. 

Scholarships and Awards 
Students receiving scholarships and awards are also invited to attend Lavender Graduation. A portion of the ceremony is dedicated to acknowledging the efforts of scholarship and award recipients. 

• Register for Lavender Graduation

Late Night in the Center

Heartstopper Watch Party | Tuesday September  5, 2023 | 5:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join us as we show the Netflix original show based on the hit graphic novel, Heartstopper, by Alice Osman.

CD Painting | Wednesday September 13, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

In this de-stress an sustainable craft activity students will be able to paint blank or clear cd’s for your residence space.

Motivational Posters Craft | Thursday September 21, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

This craft will be the creation of posters with motivational phrases that students can either hand in their rooms or give to a friend.

Clothesline Project T-Shirt Making | Tuesday September 26, 2023 | 6:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Each year, the Gender Equity Center hosts different sessions for students to come and create t-shirts surrounding the topics of dating violence, sexual violence, stalking, and harassment in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). 

Et Cohabitabant: Ancient Trivia for the Modern Queer | Friday October 6, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join the CSGD as we turn back the clock and take a stroll through the halls of queer history with this themed trivia night! All questions will be focused on queer experiences from ancient civilizations surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. Prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third place winners and include copies of Madeline Miller’s The Song of Achilles alongside CSGD swag!

Pride Flag Craft Night | Tuesday October 24, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

Learn more about the history of different pride flags and make your own in this hands-on felt activity.

Cryptid Creepshow | Tuesday October 31, 2023 | 6:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Come hang out, watch something spooky, and draw your favorite cryptid!

Gender Mood Board | Tuesday November 7, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

Our gender expression is how we present ourselves to the world. Come join us for a reflective craft activity that prompts attendees to think about their relationship to gender. Make a mood board with pictures, stickers, and other items that help describe your expression style and showcase your own individuality. 

Floats and Finals | Tuesday November 28, 2023 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join us for ice cream floats as we wind down this semester! Grab a quiet place to study in the center or learn about some helpful study strategies. 

Bob Ross Paint Night | Thursday February 1, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join students at the CSGD to break the bad weather blues! Follow along with a guided landscape painting tutorial from Bob Ross, enjoy some snacks, and partake in a raffle. 

Love in Full Color | Wednesday February 14, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Bring a friend to explore positive body image through creativity with HealthWorks and CSGD. Express yourself with paint, drawing and other activities. Artistic talent not required. Drinks and snacks will be provided! 

Around the World Mixer | Wednesday February 21, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity and Penn State Global for a fun game night! Free food and drinks from various cultures will be provided. Learn about resources for LGBTQ+ and international students. Open to all!  

Making Your Rainbow Brand | Tuesday February 27, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity for a presentation hosted by Career Services. In your time as students, you will likely have some experience in leadership. Learn tactics on how to market your experiences for employers. There's always something gained from an experience that can transfer into your future path! 

LGBTQ+ Representation in Comics | Thursday February 29, 2024 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

Feb. 29 was concretely ordained as Clark Kent’s birthday in a 1976 edition of DC Comics’ “Super Calendar” and to recognize the hero on this leap year, the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity invites everyone to celebrate the comic medium with us. Join us for discussion, snacks, and activities surrounding comics and LGBTQ+ representation. 

Playlist Making with Girl Gains | Wednesday March 20, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Join us in recognition for Women’s History Month as we partner with the student organization, Girl Gains! Students are invited to learn more about the organization and discover new music produced or written by female artists as we build ourselves a personal playlist that can be used working out and making gains! 

Women's History Month Poetry Reading | Tuesday March 27, 2024 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

In collaboration with the Creative Writing Club and the Comparative Literature Club, join us for a night of reflection and appreciation as students are encouraged to read pieces of poetry they find meaningful. While our focus will be on poetry written by femme individuals or women, you are free to read work written by any artist, whether it be sharing the work of others or your own pieces. 

DIY Decals | Thursday April 4, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

Get crafty and show your pride with the CSGD! Drop by to make your own stickers or pins representing your pride and visibility.  

Verified Vintage – A Night of Timeless Trivia  | Tuesday April 16, 2024 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB LL011

Get ready for our Decadent Decades Pride Prom later this month with an educational night of trivia focusing on LGBTQ+ history! Learn about key pieces of history, and impress your potential date with your trivia expertise.  

Petals and Pride  | Friday April 19, 2024 | 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

It’s flower time with CSGD! Stop by and make a bouquet for the special person you’re taking to Pride Prom this year and learn about Victorian Flower Language and other forms of covert communication.  

Pre-Prom Mixer  | Wednesday April 24, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. | HUB LL011

One day before Pride Prom! Stop by the CSGD to pick up your ticket and meet other students who are planning on attending. Talk outfits, makeup, or make plans to meet up before the event tomorrow. 

Anti-Racism and Social Justice Programs 

The Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity is committed to programs, events and education that are opportunities for students to learn more or get involved with anti-racism and social justice. Learning to be anti-racism is essential to challenge injustice. Being involved with these programs allow students a more holistic view of intersectionality and engagement with social justice. 

QTPOC Mixer | Tuesday March 19, 2024 | 5:30 p.m. | Starting in the PRCC

Join the Paul Robeson Cultural Center and the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity for a collaborative mixer on March 19! Build community, foster connections & share resources with QTPOC students, faculty & staff. Attendees can meet at the PRCC for light refreshments before heading down to the CSGD space for dinner and conversation. Hope to see you there! 

VISIBLE: The LGBTQ Caribbean Diaspora  | Thursday March 21, 2024 | 5:30 p.m. | HUB Flex Theater

Join us for a viewing of VISIBLE: The LGBTQ Caribbean Diaspora on March 21st in Flex Theater. The film features 30 participants representing the Caribbean who identify as LGBTQ and living in the North American diaspora. Director and producer, Max-Arthur Mantle will engage in a post-screening discussion of the film. Max-Arthur Mantle is a Jamaican-born author, photographer and filmmaker. Co-sponsored by the Department of African American Studies, the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity, the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, and the Center for Social Change and Belonging.