Diversity and Inclusion - a Division of Student Affairs at the University of Central Oklahoma

Central Allies

Central Allies is a committee of UCO faculty, staff, and students that are dedicated to building a University that is inclusive and respectful of all regardless of an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. By providing a safe space for dialogue, regular programming, as well as educational resources, Central Allies serves as a vehicle for social action to build a supportive environment for all members of the GLBTQQIA community on the UCO campus. 

Coffee and Conversations

Bring any discussion topic or news article you would like to share with the community to our Open Forum Coffee & Conversations in the Lillard Leadership Lounge on Tuesday, April 2ndfrom 12 to 1pm.

 GLBTQQIA Resources on Campus

Student Alliance for Equality 

The Student Alliance for Equality (SAFE) is a registered student organization that provides support for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender students, faculty, staff members, alumni, and allies at the University of Central Oklahoma, as well as for members of the surrounding communities. 

SAFE sponsors educational programs and advocates tolerance and equality for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. SAFE promotes friendship and acceptance by sponsoring social events within a safe environment, and it serves as a liaison between the UCO campus and the wider community through its involvement in student government, campus committees, and off-campus activities and initiatives. SAFE also provides information on GLBT issues through forums, public speakers, a resource library, and support groups. In addition, SAFE sponsors the UCO Safe-Zone Ally Program, and it collaborates with community organizations on a variety of initiatives and programs.

Student Alliance for Equality - Facebook Page

Student Alliance for Equality - UCO Webpage

Central's It Gets Better Project 

"Every person deserves to be respected for who they are." - www.itgetsbetter.org 

At the University of Central Oklahoma, we truly believe in this statement.  Members of the campus community have come together to create Central's It Gets Better Project, a video diary of four student and alumni experiences at Central as members of the GLBTQQIA Community.  Along with other allies, these individuals tell their powerful story of coming out and how their experience at Central has helped shape who they are.   

It Gets Better Project

The Safe Zone Ally Program provides training to students and to faculty and staff members to enable them to support and provide resources to bisexual, gay, lesbian, transgender and questioning students.  Safe Zone training programs are help on a periodic basis through the year.  For further information, please contact SAFE Faculty Advisor Dr. David Macey (dmacey@uco.edu), Safe Zone Coordinator Thomas Horne (thorne2@uco.edu), or SAFE President Brandon White (bwhite17@uco.edu).

Out for Work Program

Out for Work functions as a component in the total educational experience of LGBT students, primarily in the development, evaluation, initiation and implementation of career plans and opportunities. OFW’s programs help connect LGBT students to industries, locations and employers who are open and welcoming to all people.