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.

Lavender Launch aim to increase connection and sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ students at JMU and within the Harrisonburg and Rockingham communities.

1. Identify at least three campus resources and/or community resources that support the LGBTQ+ campus experience
2. List at least three involvement opportunities that support the LGBTQ+ student experience
3. Find at least three campus peer connections that support their transition to campus
4. Describe how the LGBTQ+ experience intersects with other marginalized experiences on campus
5. Utilize skills for self-advocacy during their college experience

The first Lavender Launch is currently being planned for the summer of 2026. More details and timelines will be added as we get closer to that time.