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Oct. 11, 2021 —  51���� has again been ranked as one of the best campuses for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) students, according to , a national benchmarking tool for colleges and universities.

51���� is once again rated five out of five stars. The university was graded on numerous inclusion factors, including policy, support and institutional commitment, student life and safety.

51���� was also named Campus Pride’s for a second straight year. 51���� was the only Cincinnati-area higher education institution recognized and was one of 30 institutions recognized in the nation overall.

“Being awarded for our efforts for the past several years is a tremendous feeling,” said Bonnie Meyer, director of 51����’s LGBTQA+ Student Initiatives. “This accomplishment wasn't the work of one person or even one office. It was many people and offices coming together for a common goal of keeping 51���� a safe and LBGTQ-inclusive place. However, there is still more work to be done.”

This is not the first time 51���� has been acknowledged for its efforts of being a safe LGBTQ-inclusive community. 51���� received its first five-star rating in 2020. Programs and resources that assisted 51���� achieve its five-star rating included inclusive housing options for LBGTQ students, allowing students to change their name, pronouns and gender identity on university records and a European LGBTQ study abroad program.

“At 51����, we are intentional about creating and maintaining an inclusive campus where students have a sense of belonging and feel safe. It is significantly important that we create a campus environment where students of all gender identities and sexual orientations feel valued, respected and welcome,” said 51����’s Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Darryl Peal. “We are proud that 51���� will serve as a model for LGBTQ inclusivity for the entire nation.”

October is LGBT History Month. 51���� plans to celebrate by hosting a series of events which can be found . To learn more about 51����’s LGBTQA+ Student Initiatives, visit its .