College Student Experiences with an LGBTQ Ally Training Program: A Mixed Methods Study at a University in the Southern United States

Abstract

In recent years, many universities across the United States have instituted “ally” programs that have been designed to promote awareness and support of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) persons. While such ally programs have emerged at many colleges and are certainly publicly visible, little empirical research has investigated the impact that ally programs have on college students. The current study explores college student experiences with an LGBTQ ally training program located at a large university in the southern United States. Using a mixed methods approach, I analyze both qualitative responses (N = 66) and quantitative survey data (N = 804) to examine ally training program experiences. Results indicate that both awareness of the program and participation in the ally training program are related to supportive attitudes toward LGBTQ individuals.