Queensborough Holds Ribbon Cutting for The PRIDE Center
Members of the College community, including faculty and staff, elected officials, and alumni gathered for the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony of The PRIDE Center. The celebratory event was held on March 26 at The PRIDE Center’s location on the second floor of the Administration Building in room A-206.
Mr. Lamar Greene (they/them/theirs), PRIDE Center Coordinator, gave opening remarks. “The word that comes to mind for me today is gratitude because The PRIDE Center wouldn’t be possible without Queensborough’s caring students, faculty and staff.” Lamar, who began their journey to Queensborough in October of last year added, “This is a co-creating moment for the Center which will continue to thrive, grow and expand. This space during this time is critical. We need a place of our own to access resources, be ourselves and pursue our dreams through education.”
Queensborough President Christine Mangino (she/her/hers) welcomed everyone. “This is an inclusive place for lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, trans, queer and questioning members of our community where they can be their full, authentic selves and always feel welcome at Queensborough.”
President Mangino paused and added, “Opening a space like this is personal for Queensborough. We offer numerous supports at the College to ensure our students feel at ease learning in our community, and The PRIDE Center is an example of that.” She pointed out the recent data that indicates — of the students who responded — 17% identify as lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or questioning, and nearly ten percent identify as trans or other identity.
President Mangino introduced “a true friend to the College”, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. He began by thanking the President and congratulating Lamar, then spoke of the importance of unity and respect, now more than ever, in the face of hateful attacks and rhetoric throughout the country and in so many communities. “Queens is the most diverse county in the country with people from 190 countries and 360 dialects and languages spoken. In this borough everyone should be able to tell their story and at QCC that commitment is expressed every day in its values of diversity, equity and inclusion. We need to be a shining light. In Queens, we love you no matter who you are and who you love and how you identify. QCC embodies what we are as a borough. We must recommit ourselves to fight hate in all forms.”
Lamar then introduced Tikola Russell, Dean for Students, Office of Community Standards. They thanked her for her instrumental guidance and co-creator vision for this space.
Dean Russell said, “On behalf of myself and Vice President of Student Affairs, Brian Mitra, welcome. This is more than a physical space but also a powerful symbol of commitment to the LGBTQAI+ community at Queensborough. From personal wellbeing to academic success, individuals feel empowered here--seen, heard and respected. To our students: know that you are never alone.”
President Mangino expressed her deep appreciation to the donors who helped make The PRIDE Center possible, including Amiel Singer, ‘71, who was the first to donate to The PRIDE Center, East West Bank, CUNY Central’s Transformative Investment Initiatives, and the overwhelming number of colleagues who donated to CUNY Tuesday, specifically for LGBTQAI+ initiatives.
After the ribbon cutting guests gathered for refreshments in the spacious and colorful center furnished with comfortable seating, computer stations, a white board, flat screen and several round tables ideal for relaxing activities like playing games, building Lego sets, putting puzzles together, or just chatting with friends.
All students, faculty, and staff are welcome to participate in events, programs, and activities hosted by Queensborough’s PRIDE Center regardless of sexual orientation, biological sex, gender identity or expression.
Photo Gallery: Queensborough PRIDE Center Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
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