Celebrating LGBTQIA+ History Month
October 1, 2025
Dear Campus Community,
October is LGBTQIA+ History Month – a time to foster understanding, build community and recognize the invaluable contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community. This observance also highlights National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11 and commemorates the first and second marches on Washington for LGBTQIA rights in 1979 and 1987.
We celebrate this month thanks to Rodney Wilson, the first openly-gay history teacher at a Missouri public high school. In 1994 Wilson founded what was then called Lesbian and Gay History Month. Just one year later, the National Education Association officially added it to the list of commemorative months. Thanks to his vision, we have this annual opportunity to reflect on the impact of LGBTQIA+ individuals throughout history.
At Chaffey College, we are committed to providing a true sense of belonging for all students, faculty and staff. Our LGBTQIA+ community is an important part of who we are, and we proudly recognize their impact nationally and globally.
This year, the LGBTQIA+ Advocates Committee has launched two new initiatives:
- An Ally Directory, connecting students and campus community members with faculty and staff who have completed approved LGBTQIA+ educational training and wish to openly demonstrate their allyship.
- A Contact Form, established by the committee’s Tri-Chairs, for anyone in need of support or conversation.
To further explore LGBTQIA+ history and historic figures, we invite you to visit the Chaffey College LGBTQIA+ Library Guide.
Sincerely,
Henry D. Shannon, Ph.D.
Superintendent/President
Michael L. McClellan, Ed.D.
Associate Superintendent of Instruction and Institutional Effectiveness
Alisha Rosas
Associate Superintendent of Student Services and Strategic Communications
Lisa Bailey
Associate Superintendent of Business Services and Economic Development
Troy Ament
Associate Superintendent of Administrative Services and Emergency Operations
