The group had its first meeting on May 12, 1992, in Pavilion VIII. Bernard Mayes pronounced the meeting an historic occasion at the University. A diverse group of about 20 men and women from different parts of the University attended.

After introductions, general discussion ensued about the goals and activities of the organization. Some of the ideas that were raised were as follows.

• Hold a reception to welcome new LGB staff and faculty in the fall
  
• Sponsor other social events throughout the academic year
  
• Develop one or more reading/discussion groups in LGB Studies
  
• Encourage expansion of library resources relevant to LGB issues
  
• Develop an academic LGB Studies Program
  
• Establish an LGB Center, perhaps modeled on the Women's Center
  
• Find an office in which to assemble information about LGB issues
  
• Establish a speaker's bureau for LGB issues
  
• Provide information and advocacy on health and mental health issues
  
• Provide information and advocacy on legal issues
  
• Advocate changes in University policies that discriminate against LGB faculty, staff, and students (e.g., in housing, benefits)

The group agreed to meet again early in the fall, and to organize a reception in honor of lesbian, gay and bisexual faculty and staff members new to the University, to be held during mid- to late September. In the meantime, Charlotte Patterson agreed to organize an informal meeting of those interested in academic curriculum and library resource issues at some point during the summer months. Anyone who would like to attend this informal meeting is invited to contact Charlotte or Bernard.

University of Virginia
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transexual Faculty, Staff and Graduate Student Association