Lake Superior State University has unveiled its first scholarship specifically for students involved with the LGBTQ+ community.
In a written release, the school said the $1,200 scholarship was established by the current university president, Rodney Haney, and his wife, Sara Gunhus-Hanley. It will go towards a student who “exemplifies leadership and service within the university LGBTQ+ community” and is involved in activism and research.
The university's LGBTQ+ group, Sexuality and Gender Equality (SAGE), called it a "step in the right direction."
"In today’s world, you find at times there isn’t much support," said SAGE President Madeline Mazella. "By establishing this scholarship, Dr. and Mrs. Hanley have demonstrated their acceptance of diversity for people who need it to feel safe, welcomed, and valued."
University president Haney said in the release promoting diversity creates a healthy learning environment and makes progress towards social justice. He and his wife committed $31,000 dollars to the fund.