We have a question on our admissions application that says: “The Admissions Committee seeks to gather as much information as we can about our applicants in order to select the most inclusive class we possibly can. Please check here if you identify yourself with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA) communities: _____ I acknowledge the above statement.”
Faculty hiring, faculty appointments, and faculty diversity committees work together to attract a diverse pool of candidates for all open faculty positions.
There are “out” faculty, staff, and administrators, and I am not aware that there is a formal way to self-identify.
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Transition related surgeries are covered under our plans, if they relate to the transition affirmation surgery itself. Cosmetic surgeries (i.e., plastic surgeries not related to transition of gender) are not covered. See information in the e-mailed document “UPMC Health Plan – Policy & Procedure Manual, Subject: Gender Affirmation Surgery”.
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The Counseling Center is committed to creating an affirmative environment in which all students feel welcomed. The staff is supportive and accepting of clients’ gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, culture, religion, and abilities. In addition to individual counseling, the Counseling Center offers counseling to couples. Most of the staff members have undergone training in the “Allies Network program”, and are supportive of and provide inclusive services for both mixed-sex and same-sex couples. In addition, the Counseling Center provides a safe and confidential support group exclusive to LGBTQIA+Q students, where students can feel free to explore personal issues such as relationships, self-acceptance, dealing with homophobia, and more.
There are two single stall restrooms in the Barco Law Building which are fully accessible to all individuals. They are identified by signage and are located on building maps and directories. Individuals are also welcome to use gender segregated restrooms which correspond to their gender identities.
Faculty, staff, and students are welcome to use restrooms that correspond to their gender identities. In addition, single-occupancy or unisex facilities may be found in many University facilities and may be used by all members of the University community at: (https://www.diversity.pitt.edu/resources/lgbtqia-resources/restrooms-and-gender-inclusive-housing).
Gender Law Seminar
The Professional Development Office manages a Student Professional Development Fund that students can apply to for funding in order to attend career fairs. Each year, several LGBTQ students apply for and receive funds to attend the Lavender Law Conference & Career Fair.
All staff / faculty / administrators are required to engage anti-sexual harassment training when hired.
Our OUTLaw student organization group is active and many staff and faculty who who don’t necessarily identify as LGBTQ+ are strong allies. The law school has created the Office of Equity and Inclusive Excellence to address issues relating to underrepresented and minoritized groups including members of the LGBTQ+ community.