Campus club helps gay, straight students better understand each other

Published: 2008-02-07

PORTLAND, Ore. (CNS) -- Officials at the University of Portland, run by the Holy Cross Fathers, have recognized a club that seeks to build community and understanding between students who are heterosexual and those with a homosexual orientation. Approval came in January for the Gay Straight Partnership. The group's mission statement says it aims "to help all students grow in friendship, knowledge, faith and service." Club members also plan to educate students on issues surrounding sexuality -- without advancing an agenda. John Goldrick, the university's vice president for enrollment management and student life, approved of the club after asking for some changes in the proposal, including new advisers and the removal of a section on networking with other schools. The university's officers also suggested the group strengthen the wording of its mission to ensure that "the group will provide balanced programming and education and will offer a clear, faithful presentation of the Catholic Church's teaching about human sexuality and sexual orientation," said a memo from Goldrick to the student activities office.

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