Trans* Students

Transgender, Nonbinary and Gender Nonconforming Student Support

The MOSAIC Center supports students who belong to the LGBTQIA+ community by hosting events and programs that deepen a sense of community and connection, as well as knowledge and education, such as Queer Friendsgiving and Lavender Celebration.

*New* Gender Affirmation Support & Products Program

As part of our commitment to cura personalis, or care for the whole person, we have expanded our services for students who specifically identify as part of the Trans community, which includes those who are transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming. The Gender Affirmation Support & Products Program provides resources and staff support for students who are navigating gender transition.

To learn more about this resource and/or to inquire about receiving support, students can schedule a meeting via Bookings.

  • Transitioning – The process in which a trans or nonbinary person begins to live as their gender identity. It may include changing one’s name, taking hormones, having surgery, and/or altering legal documents. Transitioning means very different things to different people. There is no right way to transition, and each trans person has their own path. There are different types of transition:
  • Social Transition – a social transition includes transition from one gender to another by changing mannerisms, dress, hair, pronouns, name, and a variety of other means. A social transition involves elements of a transition that are not necessarily medical or legal.
  • Legal Transition – the process of changing how one’s gender is represented on legal documents, inclusive of one’s birth certificate, driver’s license, social security, insurance, and/or passport. Many countries and US states have legal barriers that make it expensive and difficult for trans people to legally transition. 
  • Medical Transition – a medical transition may include hormones and/or surgeries.

Source: Michigan State University, Gender and Sexuality Campus Center

 

Note: We decided to use the term trans/transgender to be as inclusive as possible of the diversity of gender identities and expressions in our campus community. We use trans/transgender as an umbrella term to describe those of many gender identities of those who do not identify or exclusively identify with their sex assigned at birth, including those who are genderfluid, trans masculine, trans feminine, genderqueer, nonbinary, two spirit, androgynous and may exist between and beyond binary gender constructs.

Campus Resources

Seattle University’s policies and practices are aimed toward developing an environment that is inclusive and accessible for all students. This work builds upon nurturing a community that values diversity and promotes the dignity of all persons, including all who identify as trans/gender non-conforming. Below is a brief summary of available resources at Seattle University.