Pride at Palo Alto University
At Palo Alto University (PAU), we proudly celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month - honoring the courageous fight for equity and the diverse identities, experiences and perspectives within lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities. We recognize the resilience against discrimination as well as how these perspectives enrich our university and the field of mental health.
This Pride page uplifts LGBTQ+ pioneers who have paved the way, shares stories of perseverance in the face of adversity, and spotlights impactful work to advance affirmative and culturally-competent counseling, psychology, and social work practices for LGBTQ+ individuals. The tireless advocacy for visibility, acceptance, and equality inspires and challenges us all.
PAU strives to be an inclusive environment where LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff can bring their full authentic selves. We are committed to amplifying LGBTQ+ voices, creating supportive spaces, and continually examining our practices through an LGBTQ+ affirmative lens. We utilize the Inclusive Excellence Framework as a roadmap for systemic, intentional, and sustainable work to drive an inclusive university. Learn more about our strategic vision.
Pride Month 2024 Highlight
"A Rainbow of Possibilities: New Perspectives on LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Clinical Practice and Research" provost colloquium presentation:
On March 15th, PAU welcomed Dr. Kimberly Balsam for an insightful provost colloquium titled "A Rainbow of Possibilities: New Perspectives on LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Clinical Practice and Research." As LGBTQIA+ identities become more visible alongside concerning anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiments, Dr. Balsam explored the state of affirmative practices in psychology and counseling.
Her talk examined current challenges and barriers to greater LGBTQIA+ inclusion in these fields. Dr. Balsam led an engaging discussion on creatively overcoming these obstacles to advance clinical work and research with LGBTQIA+ populations in the latter half of this decade. A key takeaway was considering how insights from LGBTQIA+ affirmative approaches could offer fresh perspectives benefiting all client populations.
PAU remains dedicated to expanding LGBTQIA+ affirmative training and research to create a more equitable, inclusive environment for the LGBTQIA+ community. Events like this provost colloquium move that vital work forward.
Equity Spotlights
Academics and Programs
Continuing Education & Professional Studies Programs
Commentary & On Demand Resources
The Thoughtful Counselor and Mental Health Careers Podcasts
Get Involved
Join Psychological Association for Gender Expression and Sexuality (PAGES)
PAGES is a student group dedicated to fostering a sexuality and gender-inclusive environment for personal, professional, and community growth emphasizing intersections among queer and other minoritized identities. Additionally, PAGES aims to promote rigorous scientific research relevant to the lives of gender and sexual minority people. Throughout the year, PAGES strives to make PAU and our surrounding community a more affirmative landscape for sexual and gender identity diversity by holding community-building events, providing queer support groups, and serving as an advocacy resource for queer students on campus. PAGES also strives to foster partnerships with other student groups focused on minoritized identities and take actions towards supporting these communities. PAGES welcomes all PAU students and faculty to join meetings, events, and discussions to further advocacy, inclusion, and education relevant across intersectional gender and sexual orientation diversities. Contact Pages@paloaltou.edu