Any minority group, be it anything from race to class to sexuality, can be made to feel neglected or overwhelmed from time to time. Thankfully, there are organizations that anyone feeling alone in the world can turn to in a time of need.

The University’s own GLOBES organization, a community of faculty, staff and alumni who are gay, lesbian, transgender or bisexual, is a prime example of such a support group, working to support the University’s LGBQT student community.

GLOBES, founded 16 years ago, has been able to maintain impressive longevity.

“When you think about movements in society concerning the LGBQT community, it’s pretty impressive,” said Corey W. Johnson, the executive chair of GLOBES.

The organization’s primary focus is to provide a family for any gay, bisexual or transgender student who feels alone.

“We focus on education, advocacy and socialization,” Johnson said. It’s quite difficult to be out on campus. We support people who are out and those who are not.”

Not many campus groups can boast such an emphasis on relationships, but not many groups have the members that GLOBES does.

“Our members [comprise] faculty and staff, but we support the LGBQT students on campus,” Johnson said. “It’s comforting to know there are teachers and leaders on campus who are like you.”

The reception is held exactly for that task: to remain visible on campus and welcome LGBQT students back to school.

“As a new staff member, I found it particularly helpful in developing a social and support network in a place I wasn’t yet familiar with,” said Jennifer Miracle, the director of the LGBQT Resource Center. “GLOBES also holds other social events throughout the year in the interest of building community as well as supports various programs on campus.”