Amidst the flood of college rankings, there’s one list members of the Penn community shouldn’t complain about: our top spot on Newsweek’s ranking of the most gay-friendly schools.
This score didn’t come out of nowhere. The Admissions Office has started reaching out to accepted students who are “out” in their applications. Interest in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender organizations is high. And the Lambda Alliance chairman said more and more students are coming out of the closet at the beginning of the school year.
This last indication of LGBT-friendliness is particularly impressive. Sexual orientation can be something people struggle with, and there are many places where those who are openly gay become the target of bullying and discrimination. That students feel they can be open about who they are demonstrates an atmosphere of tolerance. And the fact that freshmen feel comfortable coming out right at the start of their Penn careers signals that the University not only provides good support for students once they’re here, but it also has developed a good reputation in the LGBT community.
Penn is clearly doing a lot right to make sure students feel accepted regardless of their sexual orientation. The University and student groups should keep up the good work and continue to expand their efforts to make sure all feel welcome.
