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Galloway, N.J. – The annual flag raising for LGBTQ+ History Month on Oct. 3 was one full of emotion, joy and support for the LGBTQ+ individuals both part of and beyond the ������ community.

President Joe Bertolino reminded attendees that their presence on campus is not only valued but mirrors his own experience as a gay undergraduate student.

“I started my career in higher education 33 years ago, and at that time, I was advised as a residence hall director that there was a gay glass ceiling: if you were out, then you could forget ever becoming a dean or a vice president, let alone a president,” Bertolino said. “To the naysayers in 1990: I want to share that this is actually my third presidency. My husband, Bil, is the vice chancellor of the Rutgers University system, and together, we smashed that ceiling.

“I share that with you because I want you to know that no one can tell you that being who you are will hold you back. Be authentic. Be honest. Be you and celebrate that.  We take pride in our diverse identities and are committed to creating a space where students can authentically be themselves and explore their identities. As long as I am the president of this institution, I will make sure that every student is seen and that they feel that they belong here in our community.”

Bertolino was introduced by Marques Johnson, associate dean of students, who acknowledged the people who made it possible for students to have a welcoming and inclusive campus.  

“When I was thinking about the remarks that I wanted to share, I wanted to thank, recognize and stand on the shoulders of all of those who paved the way before us. I recognize the brave spaces that they created and all of the fights for equality and social justice that they did for each and every single one of us,” Johnson said.

“It reminds me that each day, we have an opportunity: an opportunity to walk in purpose, an opportunity to walk in compassion and an opportunity to make sure that we extend our hands, arms, love and grace to those around us. We are reminded that this fight is not just for the community, it's for our allies. It's for everyone, and we have to remember that when we show up each day,” he said.

Several student speakers shared their personal journeys, which had a common thread: an emphasis on family – whether by blood or chosen – and how their support has impacted them. 

“When you come out, there's a risk of losing everything and everyone you love,” Andrea Sandoval, president of the Student Senate, shared. “So, when I eventually came out, and my family accepted me with no issue, it was one of the greatest things ever in the world. My parents are immigrants from Mexico, and the way that they opened up their minds to accept me for who I was, was one of the most important things in my life. 

“That’s why I wanted to talk about the importance of allyship; you don't know what somebody's going through, and you don't know if those words of simply saying ‘I accept you’ will save their life or not,” Sandoval said.