In a bold and affirming show of solidarity, BCC recently hosted a groundbreaking LGBTQI+ Student Leadership Conference that brought together over 300 queer students, campus leaders, and over 30 local agencies in a celebration of identity, resilience, and community. With the support of CUNY leadership, including the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor Maybank, BCC President, local government officials, and esteemed faculty and staff from across the university, the event centered student voices and amplified the lived realities of LGBTQI+ individuals pursuing higher education.

“The conference was more than an event—it was a call to action. It affirmed that LGBTQI+ students, particularly those in the CUNY system and at community colleges, are ready to lead,” said Professor Emalinda McSpadden, Director of the LGBTQI+ Resource Room. “Students’ stories, identities, and aspirations hold the key to creating more inclusive and equitable educational spaces.”

The CUNY LGBTQI+ Council has organized a student conference for queer and allied students from across CUNY each year since 2022, moving to a different borough campus each time.