On Campus Support

Many offices and departments on campus are here to help all students reach their full potential while at St. Olaf. Below are just some of the many options for LGBTQIA+ students to find support and guidance while on campus.

Wellness Center

The Wellness  Center offer a variety of resources and support for LGBTQIA+ students. Some of these resources include both professional and student staff who are available to talk one-on-one about topics relating to coming out, belonging, mental health, sexual health, and much more!

College Ministry

St. Olaf College has a student congregation that is open and affirming, welcoming people of LGBTQIA+ identities in activities and leadership. Our college pastors and chaplains have experience providing supportive pastoral care and counseling for all people, inclusive of gender and sexual identities, and regardless of religious background. They are another resource on campus for conversation as well as partnership on activities, and can be reached by email or stopping by the College Ministry office, located below Boe Chapel.

Boe House Counseling Center

The Counseling Center strives to provide a safe, supportive, and confidential therapeutic space for LGBTQIA+ identified students. Our staff includes both queer-identified therapists as well as therapists with competence and experience working with LGBTQIA+ identified individuals. In addition to addressing a wide array of mental health issues, we have experience working with population-specific issues, including:

  • the coming out process (to self, family, and friends)
  • traumatic experiences related to homophobia, transphobia, marginalization, and discrimination
  • distress or difficulty navigating the complexities of transitioning
  • self-acceptance and self-respect
  • queer relationships
  • internal spiritual or faith-related struggles
  • difficulties within family, community, and faith communities

The Piper Center for Vocation and Career

The Piper Center offers support to St. Olaf students and alumni as they navigate the career exploration and search process, including questions related to identity and career. As someone who identifies as LGBTQIA+, you may be wondering about if, when, and how to come out to a potential employer, what to disclose on a resume, how to connect with alumni or other professionals in your field of interest, or other career questions. Coaches are available to meet with you one-on-one and you are also encouraged to attend networking events, information sessions, and other workshops. The Piper Center is a safe and welcoming space for students to seek support and resources as you step in to the career exploration and search process