Program Mission
Lavender Launch is Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression’s Pre-Orientation Program for new students. The program is designed to energize, prepare and equip students for life in the LGBTQ+ community at JMU and within the Harrisonburg/Rockingham County communities. By providing community building opportunities, engaging educational sessions, and context about JMU and the surrounding area, Lavender Launch aims to be the experience that ignites first-year and transfer student success for LGBTQ+ students at JMU.
Program Goal
Lavender Launch aim to increase connection and sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ students at JMU and within the Harrisonburg and Rockingham communities.
Learning Outcomes:
- Identify at least three campus resources and/or community resources that support the LGBTQ+ campus experience
- List at least three involvement opportunities that support the LGBTQ+ student experience
- Find at least three campus peer connections that support their transition to campus
- Describe how the LGBTQ+ experience intersects with other marginalized experiences on campus
- Utilize skills for self-advocacy during their college experience
FAQs
Yes, there is a $100 registration fee associated with the program.
Lavender Launch is a 3-day program held Wednesday, August 13th – Friday, August 15th, 2025.
Move in for program participants will take place on Wednesday, August 13th from 9am-3pm.
Although the program is designed for LGBTQ+ students, allies are always welcome.
No, there is not a cancellation fee associated with the program. Program participants will receive a refund if they cancel their registration on or before August 1st, 2025.
The registration deadline is August 1st, 2025.
All students are accepted into the program upon registration and receipt of the program registration fee.
All questions about Lavender Launch can be directed to sogie@jmu.edu.
Though some portions of the event will be photographed, participants will be able to choose if they would like to be photographed. Program participants' names will not be shared publicly.
If you cannot afford the registration fee, please email sogie@jmu.edu to discuss a reduction in the registration fee or fee waiver.
Yes! Please email sogie@jmu.edu so that we can work with you and discuss ways that you can fully participate in the program.
Student Success Center
