Rural Colleges Champion LGBTQ+ Inclusion

A new unofficial ranking, developed through a partnership between the LGBTQ+ nonprofit It Gets Better and Antioch College, spotlights rural colleges that provide inclusive environments for queer students. This initiative aims to showcase that supportive campus communities are not limited to urban settings, offering LGBTQ+ learners more diverse options.

The collaboration between It Gets Better and Antioch College reviewed data including student feedback, campus policies, and external reviews to identify institutions demonstrating strong LGBTQ+ inclusivity. This effort specifically seeks to counter the narrative that LGBTQ+ individuals must relocate to major cities to thrive.

Key institutions recognized include Antioch College in Ohio, College of the Atlantic in Maine, and Wellesley College in Massachusetts. These schools are noted for their visible LGBTQ+ resources, student groups, and institutional commitments to gender diversity and non-discrimination.

The ranking emphasizes that rural campuses can offer unique advantages, such as strong community bonds and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for students navigating higher education and a challenging sociopolitical climate. It highlights schools like Grinnell College, Kenyon College, and Oberlin College for their integrated support systems and active queer communities.