What Is the IBIS Leadership Program?
The LGBTQ+ Student Center's IBIS Leadership Program provides students who identify as LGBTQ+ with on-campus role models who can act as a resource and support system. The program is structured as a cohort-based program that also assists students in making connections with the community both on and off campus.
The Goals of the IBIS Leadership Program
- Ensure the retention and success of undergraduate and graduate students who identify within the LGBTQ+ community.
- Provide on-campus role models who can serve as a resource and support for students.
- Help students build LGBTQ+ community using a cohort-based model.
- Develop student leaders through skill-building opportunities and service projects.
- Help foster a feeling of belonging and acceptance for LGBTQ+ students.
Who Can Be a Fellow?
All LGBTQ+ identified undergraduate and graduate students!
Who Can Be a Leader?
Any University of Miami faculty/staff/administrator. Leaders can be LGBTQ+ identified or an ally of the LGBTQ+ Community.
Time Commitments
The duration of the program will occur over one academic year. In order to participate in the IBIS Leadership Program, both leaders and fellows should be able to attend the majority of scheduled group events, outlined at the beginning of the year, as well as monthly meetings with their leader/fellow on their own time.
What Is the Application Process?
The applications for leaders and fellows for the 2025-2026 school year are closed. Deadlines for the 2026-2027 school year TBA.
What Are the Benefits of Participating?
- Creation of lifelong friendships
- Learn about UM while having fun through team-building excursions
- Opportunity to learn about LGBTQ+ community on and off campus
- Networking and connection to expansive community
- Have fun!
Student Testimonials
"Participating in the mentor's program was one of the most unexpected parts of my senior year at UM, and I am so happy with the experience! When I first learned of the program, I didn't anticipate on joining because I was so used to being a mentor, through Cane for a Day, my sorority, tutoring, etc., that I couldn't imagine being a mentee. Vanessa and Dr. Vega pushed me to come to the Mentors Kick-Off, and after talking with Scott, I knew I made the right choice! I was excited to be a part of the program and hoped I would be paired with Scott. I could tell he had so much wisdom to offer me- personally and professionally. I wasn't sure that I had anything to offer in return or what I was supposed to do as a mentee, but somehow it all fell into place! At the beginning of Fall semester, I spoke at the What Matters to U event and was so nervous! Having Scott there- and having his support so early on into the mentorship program- meant a lot to me. Throughout the year, Scott and I met frequently, sometimes getting food and catching up, and other times at larger events like the Out of the Darkness Walk and the Pride Parade meetings. I was so proud to attend the LGBTQ Alumni Reception that Scott planned and see how hard he has been working to support the LGBTQ community. Although the program ended abruptly due to COVID, I am so grateful for the experience and will always look to Scott as an amazing mentor!" - Claudia (Mentee 2019-2020)
