Northeastern Illinois University is the first Illinois public university to include a question about a prospective student's sexual orientation or gender identity on its admissions application for fall 2014. The question is meant to help the University connect prospective LGBTQ students to resources and information and scholarships that might be of interest to members of the LGBTQ community.
Elmhurst College, a private school in Chicago's western suburbs, became the first college in the country to ask applicants if they are LGBT, starting in 2011.
"By providing an optional opportunity to identify as LGBTQ, Northeastern is demonstrating its commitment to diversity and inclusion," explained Anthony Papini, director of the LGBTQ Resource Center at Northeastern.
Papini added that Northeastern is proud to support students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer. The University also recognizes students who may not identify as LGBTQ, but are straight allies who have contributed to the LGBTQ community as a parent or friend and are committed to advancing LGBTQ equality.
Answering the LGBTQ question is optional and will not have any effect on an applicant's chances for admission. Responses to the question, and all admissions questions, are confidential and not shared outside of the appropriate university departments.
"Northeastern has made major improvements in becoming a friendlier LGBTQ campus," said Leonard Perez, LGBTQ student at Northeastern. "Every semester we can see more events and activities happening around campus that make the LGBTQ community feel embraced, welcomed and empowered."
For more information about LGBTQ resources at Northeastern contact Anthony Papini at ( 773 ) 442-5440 or a-papini@neiu.edu . For information about admissions at Northeastern call the admissions office at ( 773 ) 442-4050.
See www.windycitymediagroup.com/lgbt/Elmhurst-College-first-to-poll-LGBT-applicants/33497.html .