KEYC-TV Looks At Information Shared During Summer Orientation
The LGBT Center at Minnesota State University, Mankato is the nation’s second-longest operating campus center for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender students.
The LGBT Center located on the main level of the Centennial Student Union started in 1977 through the dedication of Jim Chalgren.
The center was later named the Jim Chalgren LGBT Center in honor of the path he paved to live safely, find community and be proud of ourselves.
That dedication was advanced by Jessica Flatequal, lifelong Mankato native, Minnesota State Mankato alumna and the center’s first full-time director.
Named in 2010 to Go Magazine’s national “100 Women We Love” list, Flatequal passed away in April 2019 from liver disease.
She was posthumously honored as grand marshal for the annual Twin Cities Pride Parade on June 23.
From a small haven for LGBT students, the center has grown as a valued resource on an increasingly diverse campus. Together Chalgren and Flatequal played key roles in shaping the legacy that continues to advance the inclusive campus setting.
Current director for the LGBT Center is David Gardner. Find out more about the LGBT Center at 194 Centennial Student Union, or by calling 507-389-5131.
