Student Resources

Saint Joseph's has a variety of diversity, equity and inclusion resources for students, including LGBTQIA+ support, information for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) recipients and interfaith services. If you would like to suggest a resource to add to this page or if you have any questions about our current information, please contact us.

SJUPride

SJUPride is an undergraduate student organization that strives to create inclusive spaces for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and Ally people.

All undergraduate SJU students of all sexual orientations and gender identities are welcome. Pride strives to create holistic experiences for all members of the LGBTQIA community. Pride works toward an inclusive understanding of sexual orientation and gender identity in the context of and as it intersects with race, religion, ethnicity, nationality, ability, socio-economic status, and culture.

View A List of LGBTQIA+ Resources

Chosen Name and Identity Guidelines

In fall 2020, the University instituted the Chosen Name and Identity Guidelines as part of its ongoing and conscious efforts to embrace diversity, equity and inclusion. Students now have the ability to select the chosen name they wish to use on official documents and in official University systems such as Canvas and the University Directory.

Learn More About The Chosen Name and Identity Guidelines

Gender-Inclusive Bathrooms

The University has 40 all-gender restrooms on campus. These are open to all community members, regardless of their gender identity or expression.

Find Gender-Inclusive Bathrooms

Gender-Inclusive Housing

The Office of Residence Life offers gender-inclusive housing as part of Saint Joseph University’s mission to be an inclusive community that educates and cares for the whole person. This housing opportunity recognizes the diverse housing needs of students and furthers our commitment to developing safe, inclusive, and welcoming residential communities for all students. Gender-inclusive housing allows interested students to live in the same housing unit with other students of their choosing, regardless of sex assigned at birth, gender expression, or gender identity. Gender-inclusive housing is an option that is available to all students. 

Learn More about Gender-Inclusive Housing

Safe Zone Training

Safe Zone Training raises awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community through the lens of the ally. If you see a "Safe Zone" sign on campus, this means that the person displaying the sign has gone through Safe Zone Training or is an LGBTQIA+ ally. Students can also register for Safe Zone training.

Learn More About Safe Zone Training

University Athletics Participation

The Department of Athletics is committed to providing a participation opportunity to all students that is consistent with NCAA regulations. As a department that values diversity and inclusion, SJU Athletics strives to provide an experience where student-athletes feel safe, supported and respected, regardless of sex or gender identity. The SJU Transgender Participation Policy clarifies participation of transgender student-athletes in competitive sports at Saint Joseph’s University

Learn More About the Policy and Supports

Saint Joseph's admits, educates and supports all individuals, regardless of their immigration status or the status of their family. As a Catholic and Jesuit institution, we value the dignity of every person on campus. 

At Saint Joseph’s University, many of our faculty, staff, and administrators are also the first in their families to graduate with a four-year college degree.

Wherever you see a #FirstGen College Student pennant, there is a friendly first-generation faculty, staff member, or administrator who can relate to your experience, and would love to meet and connect with you. Knock on our doors, introduce yourself, or ask us any questions you may have. We are thrilled to welcome you to our community of first-generation students, faculty, staff, and administrators, and we want to help you not only succeed, but to thrive.

First-generation college students — students whose parents or guardians did not earn a four-year degree — often need more support to understand the jargon and culture of higher education.

Saint Joseph's Office of Student Transitions provides numerous resources to help first-gen students thrive and succeed inside and outside the classroom, including:

• SJU Jargon Handbook: This handbook is a great resource for first-gen students who may be unfamiliar with college terms.
• Tri-Alpha Honor Society: Tri-Alpha (Alpha Alpha Alpha) is a national honor society for first-generation college students.

The Office of Student Success helps students have a positive transition to college and an enjoyable experience at the University. Meanwhile, the Office of Learning Resources provides learning support and assists students with their academic transitions and study skills. 

First Generation Mentors

The First Generation Mentoring program facilitates relationships between first-generation students and first-generation faculty/staff/administrators who have offered to provide assistance and support throughout your time at SJU. You'll have opportunities to connect with your mentor and possibly other mentees over coffee, a meal, or at campus programs and events. You'll touch base with your mentor about your transition to SJU, academics, social life, etc. Mentors know a lot about SJU, and they know what it's like to be a first-generation student. Mentors and mentees can meet or communicate as often as works for both, on an informal basis.

If you are interested in finding a mentor, please browse through our mentor profiles, and complete the Student First Generation Mentee Form.

If you are a first-generation faculty, staff or administrator wanting to provide this important support and guidance, First Generation Mentor Form. Someone from the mentoring program will be in touch with you soon! If you would like additional information, please email Elizabeth Lee, PhD.

It is imperative that all students have equal access to the tools, resources and support they need to have a beneficial and transformative educational experience at Saint Joseph's, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The following resources can be utilized to support the experience of students who come from low-income families or disadvantaged backgrounds. 

• Financial Aid Office: Saint Joseph's financial aid office works closely with students and their families to find the right financing options and discuss scholarship and aid opportunities. They also host financial wellness programs for students and parents.
• Hawk Hub: Hawk Hub is the first resource center at Saint Joseph's. It is committed to addressing food insecurity on campus and making sure students' basic needs are met. 
• Career Center Professional Dress Pop-Up Shop: The CDC and students of the American Marketing Association teamed up with Target to ensure all Hawks are dressed for success. The Pop-Up shop offers free professional clothing to all SJU students.
• Basic Needs Assistance: The Basic Needs Assistance fund exists to provide financial assistance and support to SJU students. To be considered for these limited funds, students must show demonstrated financial need.

Saint Joseph's is committed to ensuring all students have equal access to all campus programs, services, activities and educational opportunities.

The Office of Student Disability Services (SDS) provides accommodations and support services to eligible students. They use an interactive, individualized process to establish appropriate accommodations based on a one-on-one meeting and a review of any supporting documentation you provide. 

Saint Joseph's offers numerous opportunities to support students and community members of all faiths. As a University, we believe in encouraging all to practice their own faith as they so choose.

Find Out More About SJU's Interfaith Services