The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) is now the Gender & Sexuality Center (GSC), reflecting student interest in more expansive gender and sexuality programming and support.

The center continues the efforts of the WRC, with an added focus on LGBTQ+ students and an expanded partnership with the faculty and staff of the Gender & Sexuality Studies Program.

While all students are welcome in the GSC, its mission is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive space for addressing issues relating to marginalized genders and sexualities.

“Through programming, education, and encouraging activism, the GSC fosters a welcoming community in which students can thrive, connect, and celebrate their authentic selves,” says Paige Jennings, director of the GSC.

“Our safe space ensures that all students can seek support and explore their experiences without judgment,” Jennings adds. “Together, we strive to build a transformative campus environment that celebrates diversity, promotes understanding, and advocates for a more equitable and inclusive future for all students, including women, gender non-conforming, trans, and queer students.”

The center will remain in the WRC’s cozy cottage location near Olde Club. The branding transition from the WRC, founded in 1974, to the GSC is expected to be completed by the fall.

“I am overjoyed to find that this community now has a dedicated, physical space and growing support staff for all queer identities and groups to gather and co-exist,” says Anastasia Lewis ’24, who has been an associate at the WRC for four years. Lewis, from Richboro, Pa., is double majoring in film & media studies and a major she designed in art, cultural, and global communications.

“As someone who has always appreciated the safe space created by the center,” she adds, “I’m happy to know that it is expanding to more people who deserve it.” 

Nick Rodriguez ’27, of the Bronx, N.Y., a first-year associate with the WRC, adds, “The transition to the Gender & Sexuality Center is not only a reflection of the center's inclusivity, it's also a step toward expanding Swarthmore's gender and sexuality support.”

“I'm looking forward to seeing the GSC grow to become an even more inclusive space,” adds Rodriguez, “and a welcoming environment for all Swarthmore students.”