The Safe Space Committee strives to reduce homophobia, transphobia and heterosexism in the Old Dominion University community. We are dedicated to a vision of a community that is open, safe, and accepting to all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning people and allies. We help cultivate this climate through awareness, education, and advocacy.



One Committee, Many Ways to Get Involved!

Are you passionate about providing a safe space for all LGBTQ members of the ODU community? There are many ways to join our efforts.

Faculty & Staff

Students Becoming a Safe Space Committee member

Participating in Ally Training (and encouraging colleagues to do so)

Attending or spreading the word about our special events

Subscribing to our listserv, or following us on Facebook or Twitter

Self-identifying as an ally or LGBTQ on our website

Requesting an LGBTQ 101 presentation for your class

Joining the LGBTQ faculty/staff network

Participating in our 'It Gets Better' video

Co-hosting an LGBTQ-related event on campus

Supporting Gay Cultural Studies and ODU Out



Getting involved with community organizations such as the LGBT Life Center , ACCESS AIDS, and Hampton Roads Pride Educating yourself about LGBTQ concerns and current events

Participating in our Student Ally Training



Attending or spreading the word about our special events

Following us on Facebook or Twitter

Participating in our 'It Gets Better' video *new initiative*

Joining SAGA

Signing up to live on the Spectrum Floor



Getting involved with community organizations such as the LGBT Life Center, ACCESS AIDS, and Hampton Roads Pride

Programming Annual Programs Lavender Reception

ODU's Annual Pridefest

Spirit Day

Rainbow Graduation



Awareness Days

Spectrum Floor This community is ideal for students wanting to embrace diversity in a safe and affirming environment that brings together LGBTQ students and straight allies to freely explore issues of gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, and the intersection of those while advocating for awareness and social justice. Click here to express interest in being a part of this Living Learning Community (LLC)!

Out on Campus Familiarize yourself with faculty and staff Monarchs that are openly part of the LGBTQ community. Out on Campus