Haverford College has a rich history of advocacy and transformation led by students, staff, and faculty in creating an inclusive campus environment for LGBTQIA+, femme-, and women identified students.

The Center for Gender Resources and Sexual Education (GRASE) was established as the Women’s Center in October 1981, and officially opened for operation in the spring of 1982, shortly after the admission of the first class of women in the fall of 1980. The transition to a coeducational environment presented challenges for many of the women, who were experiencing gender-based discrimination and violence. Following a series of incidents, the students demanded support from the administration and called for the establishment of the Women’s Center. The mission of the Center was to support women-identified students with dignity, respect, and confidence.

Over the years, the Center has grown to provide students with support and resources, as well as work with students to advocate for equal and fair treatment around issues of gender, sexuality, and sexual health rights. In 2020, the Women*s Center was renamed as The Center for Gender Resources and Sexual Education (GRASE) to accurately reflect expanded work within the LGBTQIA+ communities.

Student Learning Outcomes

Through engagement with the GRASE Center, students will:

• Develop an understanding of the experiences and impact of LGBTQIA+ communities in the context of intersectional, anti-racist, and trauma-informed frameworks.
• Acquire leadership skills, particularly with regards to advocating for equity and access for community members, particularly those who have been and continue to be historically underrepresented, marginalized, and oppressed.
• Demonstrate knowledge of social, cultural, political, historical contributions of LGBTQIA+ communities.
• Seek, identify, and utilize resources that lead to their continued development in academic, professional, and personal areas of growth.
• Develop a sense of belonging with the campus community through meaningful relationships with peers, faculty, and staff across the college.
Maximize their potential allowing them to lead in the professional world authentically, confidently, compassionately, and ethically.

History