The first year that we held Pride Week on campus after the pandemic, I was so emotional, witnessing community and feeling so lucky to be able to plan the kinds of events that we did. It really drove home that I’m where I’m meant to be.

Every day here is very different. I take the lead in campus programming, including all the educational initiatives we offer, and I head the Pride Week planning. I also love working with practicum students. They bring such excitement and newness, and they help to keep my work fresh and current. 

Students who come to the centre have this unmatched energy – even if they have concerns or negative experiences, they share them with such hope and optimism that things can and should get better in their lives. I have the privilege of walking alongside them as they do that work. It's really beautiful to watch students grow from “baby first-years” to graduates. It’s such an honour to work with every one of them.

During Pride Week, I love attending the Pride March – it’s outstanding to see people come together. We have three or four events planned for every day of the week, so there really is something for everyone. It’s a great opportunity for us to meet and connect with people and build community.

I hope that students experience the power of that community, especially in challenging times like we’re living in right now. They need and deserve to feel connected and accepted for who they are, and my hope is that they have multiple opportunities to build the communities of their dreams. I hope they feel seen, accepted and that  they feel the joy of their queerness.

– Jessica Scalzo, University Transfer: Bachelor of Arts ’00, Program Manager, Centre for Sexual and Gender Diversity