Boston University's Student Health Services and Behavioral Medicine have formed a new support group for transgender and nonbinary students, named TRANScendence. Introduced on October 18th, 2023, the initiative brings attention to the distinct needs of trans, nonbinary, gender expansive/nonconforming and gender questioning students, offering a secure environment for them to share their stories and connect with others on similar journeys as detailed by the university's website.
The formation of this support group originates from the advice given by the LGBTQIA+ Student Task Force, a student-directed organization focused on enhancing Boston University's inclusivity towards its LGBTQIA+ students. The group was inspired by the University's LGBTQIA+ Task Force for Faculty & Staff, leading to the 2021 establishment of the LGBTQIA+ Center for Faculty & Staff. Additionally, the Student Task Force has proposed the establishment, later this academic year, of a fully-staffed LGBTQIA+ center for students.
Kris Berg, cofounder of the LGBTQIA+ Student Task Force, stresses the importance for a creation of culturally responsive healthcare towards trans and non-cis students. Berg highlights to need for trauma-informed, and mental health–focused community spaces due to the historical challenge for acceptance and understanding in traditional LGBTQIA+ spaces by the trans and non-cis community. Ilana Licht, groups coordinator for Behavioral Medicine shares the TRANScendence group's goal of nurturing camaraderie among members, fostering solace and empowerment through connections established within the group as stated by Boston University.
