LGBTQ+ Student Resources | NorthWest Arkansas Community College

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LGBTQ+ Student Resources


NWACC offers numerous on and off-campus resources for LGBTQ+ students. View the information below to learn more. 

Student Clubs  

Celebrate diversity and interests by getting involved in clubs and co-curricular programs at NWACC.  

  • PRIDE at NWACC is a student club where all sexes, gender identities, gender expressions, sexualities and asexualities are welcome and celebrated. It's a place where the diverse LGBTQ+ students and their fellow student allies/supporters can find connection, friendship and support.
     

Scholarship Resources 


Academic Resources 

NWACC's library offers and LGBTQ+ research guide that can help you find books, media and articles about the people, history and major issues of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer communities in Northwest Arkansas.

Confidential Advocates 

NWACC's confidential advocates have been specially trained to provide affirming, empowering and confidential support for survivors and those who have experienced gendered violence.

Counseling & Wellness

NWACC's Counseling & Wellness Center offers FREE services to students by both telehealth and in-person appointments. Contact the Counseling & Wellness Center at counseling@nwacc.edu or 479-619-4128 to schedule an appointment.  

Restrooms 

You are welcome to use the restroom of your choosing at NWACC. If you prefer a single stall locking door, below are maps that show their location.  

Free Expression on Campus 

NWACC's Free Expression Protection Team is responsible for: 

  • Determining when on-campus First Amendment expression by individuals and groups constitutes harassment (as defined by the Free Speech policy)
  • Monitoring policies, practices and administration of First Amendment expression on campus
  • Keeping the college in compliance with federal and state law concerning the First Amendment as relevant to changing laws and court precedent
  • Educating faculty, staff and students of first amendment campus policy
  • Disseminating information about said policies, procedures and actions to the state, campus and public


Non-Discrimination Policy 

NWACC adheres to all federal and state civil rights laws banning discrimination in publicly-funded institutions. NWACC does not discriminate on the basis of gender, age, race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, military status, veteran status, familial status, or any other protected category under applicable local, state, or federal law, ordinance or regulation, including protections for those opposing discrimination or participating in any complaint process. View NWACC's non-discrimination policy for more information or to report allegations of discrimination.

Preferred/Chosen Name Process 

While legal first names must remain on permanent records, NWACC recognizes that students may wish to use a name other than their legal first name. This request will change your first name in the following locations:

  • NWACC email display name (email address will remain the same)
  • Success Planner
  • Canvas
  • Class rosters

Preferred Chosen Name Form

Legal Name Change Process 

Pride at NWACC sponsors legal clinics with Legal Aid of Arkansas to help the campus community with name and gender change legal forms. View the Center for Arkansas Legal Services web page. Feel free to contact pride@nwacc.edu for information on how to navigate the legal name change process.  

Personal Pronouns 

Using one's correct personal pronouns is a way to show respect and create an inclusive environment, just as using a person's name can be a sign of respect as well. Learn more about the importance of using personal pronouns at www.mypronouns.org. Add your pronouns to Canvas. View tips on selecting personal pronouns in your Canvas user account. 


Helplines and Hotlines 

If you are on campus and in distress, seek immediate assistance by contacting NWACC Public Safety at 479-619-4229. Off-campus, dial 911. If you are in crisis or in need of immediate support, the following helplines are available 24/7: 

  • The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) is available to all people of all ages and identities. On July 16, 2022, this line will be available through a simple 3-digit, universal phone number, 988.
  • Contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. 
  • Trevor Project Lifeline (1-866-488-7386) is available to LGBTQ+ youth.
  • Trans Lifeline (1-877-565-8860) is available to trans or gender nonconforming persons.