UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Campuses across Penn State are offering events in recognition of Campus Pride Month this April. Below are some of the events on the calendar.
The Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity hosts several signature and annual programs to spread awareness about the LGBTQ+ community and educate the Penn State community about sexual and gender diversity.
Penn State is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Events and programs are open to all regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or any other protected class.
Penn State University Park
HUB Takeover — Wednesday, April 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Monumental Staircase and Various Spots in HUB-Robeson Center. HUB Takeover invites the Penn State community to celebrate Pride Month with an afternoon of performance, connection, and campus engagement. The event will feature ongoing tabling, in partnership with student organizations and Penn State departments, offering opportunities to connect with campus resources. Open to all, HUB Takeover offers a vibrant and affirming space to celebrate Pride, build community, and engage with the many people and programs that support LGBTQ+ life at Penn State. RSVP for the HUB Takeover events at this link.
Film screening — "Sally" — Wednesday, April 8, 7–9 p.m. (EDT), Online. Sustain Penn State is screening Cristina Costantini's film "Sally" as part of its Intersections film series highlighting the sustainable development goals. The film details the life of Sally Ride, America's first female astronaut, and her efforts to fight sexism and advocate for women in STEM careers. It also details her hidden decades-long lesbian partnership that could have threatened to end her career with NASA had it been known at the time. Preceding the film, Penn State Brandywine professor Laura Guertin will contextualize the struggle of women and LGBTQ persons for visibility in STEM fields and new threats to erase their stories from public consciousness. Registration is required.
"Karaogay" — Wednesday, April 8, 5:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. at the Lion’s Lair. Join us for a lively and affirming karaoke night filled with music, community, and fun. This event invites participants to sing, connect, and enjoy an upbeat atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to take part. Whether that means performing on stage or supporting others from the crowd! Food provided.
"Super Gay 5K" — Saturday, April 11, 9 a.m.–11 p.m. (ending time dependent on participants) at the HUB Pollock Plaza. Lace up your running shoes and join the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity for the Super Gay 5K as part of Pride Month 2026! Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering for friends along the route, this event is a fun and affirming way to celebrate community, movement, and joy. Participants of all experience levels are welcome to take part as a runner or walker. Register for the 5K at this link.
“Pride in Every Field: A STEM Mixer with Rainbow Networks and Allies” — Wednesday, April 15, 12:30-2 p.m., Noontime Lounge, HUB-Robeson Center. Join the Eberly College of Science, College of Information Sciences and Technology, College of Engineering, College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, College of Agricultural Sciences, and College of Health and Human Development for a casual afternoon of connection, community, and coalition building among LGBTQIA+ community members, Rainbow Networks, and allies. All are welcome, and snacks and refreshments will be provided. RSVP for the STEM mixer by 5 p.m. Monday, April 13, to ensure that there are adequate refreshments at the event.
“LGBTQ+ in STEM Leading the Way: Perspectives on Identity” — Wednesday, April 15, 6-8 p.m., 114 McAllister Building. Join the Eberly College of Science, College of Information Sciences and Technology, College of Engineering, College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, and College of Health and Human Development for an interactive conversation, panel discussion, and performance on the intersections of STEM identity and queerness, featuring the STEM community members of Opulence. All are welcome, and dinner is provided with registration. Register for "Leading the Way" by 5 p.m. Friday, April 10, to guarantee your dinner at the event.
Pride Prom: “Under the Sea” — Tuesday, April 21, 6–9 p.m. at Heritage Hall, HUB-Robeson. Join us for an evening of celebration, connection, and community at this year’s Pride Prom. This themed event invites attendees to engage in a night of music, dancing, and self-expression in an inclusive and affirming environment. Inspired by an “Under the Sea” theme, the event will feature ocean-inspired décor and encourage creative, themed attire. Participants are welcome to interpret the theme in their own way or attend as they feel most comfortable.
Lavender Recognition — Friday, April 24, 6–9 p.m. at Alumni Hall. Lavender Recognition is an annual ceremony that celebrates graduating students and their allies, honoring their achievements, leadership, and contributions to the campus community in a supportive and affirming environment. The ceremony includes a formal program and shared meal, creating space for reflection, celebration, and connection among graduates, peers, and community members. Attire is typically business formal or cocktail, though graduates are welcome to dress in a way that feels authentic and comfortable to them. Open to all, this event is designed to celebrate student success while fostering a sense of belonging and community. Register at this link for the Lavender Recognition event.
"Get OUTside for Pride" — Sunday, April 26, 11:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. at Stone Valley Recreation Area (transportation provided). Take a break from the end-of-semester rush and reconnect with yourself, community, and the outdoors at Get OUTside for Pride! This program is hosted by the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity in collaboration with Campus Recreation – Outdoor Adventures and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). Together, we’ve designed a day that encourages students to step away from academic stress and spend time in nature through mindful reflection, outdoor adventure activities, and community connection. Food and transportation provided. Register here for Get OUTside for Pride (fill-out form).
Penn State Berks
Pride Prom, "A Night in Lesbos" — Saturday, April 11, 6–9 p.m., Janssen Conference Center. Join us for "A Night in Lesbos," our third annual Pride Prom! Food and drinks, as well games like trivia, are open to all Berks students. Sponsored by Rainbow Alliance, CAB, and Students for Democracy.
Penn State Great Valley
Book and film discussion: Marriage equality activist Edie Windsor’s memoir and documentary — Tuesday, April 14, noon to 1 p.m., Penn State Great Valley School of Graduate Professional Studies in Malvern. Great Valley’s Diversity Action Council invites faculty and staff to read Windsor’s memoir, “A Wild and Precious Life” and/or watch the documentary “To a More Perfect Union: U.S. v. Windsor." Participate in a lunchtime book and film discussion about Windsor's life in the 1950s and 1960s and her longtime activism in the gay rights movement.
Penn State Harrisburg
Multicultural & Lavender Celebration – Wednesday, April 29, 4-6 p.m., Mukund S. Kulkarni Theatre, Student Enrichment Center. The Multicultural & Lavender Celebration is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the achievement of historically underrepresented and marginalized students. This includes those of racially and ethnically marginalized identities and LGBTQIA+ identities. Any Penn State Harrisburg undergraduate or graduate students of the Spring 2026 graduating class may participate.
Penn State Mont Alto
Charity Color Run — Saturday, April 18, 11 a.m., check-in at 10 a.m. (*Rain Date: April 19 at 11 a.m.). Join SAGA, HDFS/Psych Club, and Sustainably Club at Penn State Mont Alto for a 5K Color Run around our historic campus. This color run serves to bring mental health awareness to the community while benefitting a mental health organization that focuses on LGBTQ+ Youth, The Trevor Project. Come have a colorful day of fun and support with us! For more information, contact Riley Baker, HDFS/Psych Club president, at rjb6656@psu.edu; or Blake Willi, SAGA president, at baw6011@psu.edu. Register for the Charity Color Run here.