University faculty and staff inspire and support student development, preparing students to thrive as they transition from their small ponds into the turbulent oceans of today’s world. While the ACLU is currently tracking 39 anti-LGBTQIA+ bills in Missouri, research from the American Psychological Association (APA) highlights the profound impact of supportive environments, which significantly reduce mental health issues in LGBTQIA+ youth and foster resilience and academic success.
In the greater St. Louis metro area, the Fourth City Sisters, Abbey of the Glittering Arch, are leading the charge to build those supportive environments and celebrate the richness and strength of the LGBTQIA+ community within local colleges and universities. This is one of many initiatives, such as Drag Story Hour in partnership with their long-term partners Tower Grove Pride, recurring collaborations with DOORWAYS, and supporting local LGBTQIA+ events, creating vibrant connections that uplift and empower.
The Sisters’ work in university spaces not only strengthens the LGBTQIA+ community, but also opens doors out of the echo chambers for students venturing into the real world. Sister Pattie O’Pounder shared the story of an UMSL student from Africa who had never seen a drag queen before, their nervousness transformed into excitement during their conversation. This exposure to diverse ideas and cultures is a vital part of the college experience, equipping both cis, straight and queer students for success.
To further this mission, the Fourth City Sisters—affectionately known as the “Sisters”—invite faculty and staff engaged in LGBTQIA+ programming and clubs at all local universities and colleges to a networking mixer at T-Rex this Thursday at 11:00 a.m. The Sisters aspire to lay a strong foundation with motivated faculty upon which the students will build a thriving, organized, and supported LGBTQIA+ and ally community and lead us into a brighter, more inclusive future. Please RSVP here.
To request the Sisters presence or support at your events, use the event request link on their website.
