Penn State’s Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity (CSGD) will host a handful of events for Campus Pride Month throughout April. Though Pride Month is traditionally celebrated in June, the CSGD has planned events for April while the majority of students are on campus.

Check out the following schedule to see some of the ways you can get involved and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.

Wednesday, April 6 — HUB Takeover

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3, in the HUB, students can connect with various community resources and student organizations. There will be a DJ, bingo, and other activities throughout the afternoon.

Monday, April 10 — “A Conversation With Jim Buzinski”

Join the CSGD and the John Curley Center for Sports Journalism at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 10, in Paterno Library’s Foster Auditorium for a talk with Penn State alum Jim Buzinski.

Buzinski graduated from Penn State in 1980. He went on to found Outsports in 1999, which has since served as a news hub for LGBTQ+ issues in sports. Buzinski also serves as a copy editor for the Los Angeles Times.

Tuesday, April 11 — Keynote Speaker Cory Wade

Model, actor, singer, and activist Cory Wade will speak to students at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 11, in the Freeman Auditorium. Wade was a contestant on America’s Next Top Model, where Wade faced criticism from judges and competitors for a feminine appearance. Wade has since used the platform to be incredibly supportive of LGBTQ+ equality and gender fluidity.

Wednesday, April 12 — Pride March And Rally

At noon on Wednesday, April 12, students are invited to meet at HUB LL011, where they will then march to Old Main in celebration of the LGBTQ+ community at Penn State. After the march, several people will share their stories in front of Old Main.

Wednesday, April 12 — Campus Comedy Night Featuring Preacher Lawson

The Center for the Performing Arts will host a Campus Comedy Night with sets by Preacher Lawson and Kate Sisk at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 12, at Eisenhower Auditorium.

Preacher Lawson rose to fame through appearances on “America’s Got Talent,” while Sisk’s material reflects on what life is like as a gender-nonconforming person. Tickets are required for this event and can be purchased here.

Friday, April 13 — Lavender Graduation

Lavender Graduation is a yearly ceremony that recognizes the accomplishments and contributions of LGBTQ+ students at Penn State. The ceremony is highlighted by various scholarships, awards, and speeches. This year’s Lavender Graduation will take place at 6 p.m. on April 14 in Heritage Hall.

Wednesday, April 26 — Penn State Gayla: “Fairy Garden”

Several LGBTQ+ organizations have come together to put on the second annual Penn State Gayla, which functions as a second chance at prom for those who did not feel comfortable attending in high school.

This year’s theme is “Fairy Garden” and requires registration beforehand. The event will be held from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on April 26 in Alumni Hall.

---

You can find a full listing of Campus Pride Month events, along with events occurring around Commonwealth Campuses, here.