SPARQ is a program that strives to support student’s positive development and knowledge of gender and sexuality. SPARQ offers peer mentoring, ally education, and specific programming that is focused on a variety of LGBTQ+ identities that is open to the broader Bates Community. Through these opportunities SPARQ provides aims to provide a consistent presence to inspire and foster a sense of community and connection for LGBTQ+ and questioning students.
SPARQ Peer Mentors
SPARQ Peer Mentors are the foundation of the SPARQ Program. SPARQ Peer Mentors provide support for personal, social, and general academic concerns for all students who identify as LGBTQ+ or are questioning their sexual/romantic and/or gender identity.
Interested in a SPARQ/LGBTQ+ student mentor?
Click here to fill out a brief Mentee application
You can always stop by the OIE to get connected with a SPARQ Peer Mentor during their drop in hours. For more information or questions related to SPARQ, please contact the Anthony Del Real at adelreal@bates.edu
Bloom: SPARQ Community Dinners
Bloom: SPARQ Community Dinners are monthly meal and conversation gatherings where LGBTQ+ students and their allies connect and foster a sense of community through cooking, sharing a meal, discussions and the sharing of personal experiences. Discussion topics are prepared by SPARQ Peer Mentors. These conversations are broad but guided through the lens of gender, sexual, and romantic diversity.
Events flyers will be posted to the Campus Screens and on Bates Engage.
Out2Lunch Discussion Series
Out2Lunch is an informational discussion series focusing on topics, identities, and resources relevant to LGBTQ+ college students and their allies. Out2Lunch is open to all faculty, staff, and students.
Updates about future sessions TBD.
Active Ally Trainings
Active Ally Workshops are formal and interactive workshops providing awareness, education, skills, and forms of actions individuals can utilize to continue creating inclusive and welcoming environments. Active Ally Workshops will be provided to interested students, staff, and faculty and hosted in partnership with the Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI).
Please contact Anthony Del Real at adealreal@bates.edu for more information.
Resources!
Check out our LGBTQ+ @ Bates Page!