The Student Equity and Arts Lounge (SEAL) at Evergreen College (OR) is described as “a student-centered space where you can grab a cup of coffee or tea, attend a workshop, meet with a tutor, find out about campus resources, get some studying done or just chat with other students.” Peer Navigators work in the space, in collaboration with full-time staff, to assess students’ needs, provide advocacy and support students.
SEAL is part of BIPOC & LGBTQ+ Intersectional Support Services (BLISS) at Evergreen. The student-centered space is in the College Activities Building and is open weekdays from 10:30 am to 6 pm.
Within the SEAL, Peer Navigators “hold space and time for you to share what you need,” their site says, including:
- “Navigating coming out
- Managing educational microaggressions
- Finding media and resources to celebrate your identities
- Becoming a better advocate for yourself
- Addressing citizenship concerns
- Getting support and advocacy to meet your needs
- Celebrating victories and honors others might not understand
- Finding culturally competent medical and mental health providers
- Honoring non-dominant holidays and traditions in community”
BLISS events are also held in the SEAL including:
- Make Your Own Pronoun Buttons
- Rock ‘Em Soc ‘Em Social Hour for Students of Color
- Vinalia: A Place for Trans-Women and Trans-Femmes to Build Community on Campus
- The Gender Spectrum Sanctuary: Trans & Non-binary Mental Health Support Group
- SpeakOut: From the Heart Guest Speakers
- Hot Cocoa Night
Source: Student Equity and Arts Lounge (SEAL), BIPOC & LGBTQ+ Intersectional Support Services, Student Life, Evergreen College
Check out campus ideas like this one within our Building Community Connections: Adaptable Innovations from 100 Campuses guide, filled with usable campus ideas to enhance belonging and well-being.
