June 9, 2025 - CSU Channel Islands marks Pride Month with the newly-formed CSUCI Alumni
Pride Chapter for alumni, students who belong to the LGBTQ+ community - and their
allies.
“This is part of a larger mission to provide an inclusive space for alumni who can also act as mentors to current students exploring their identities,” said President and founder Andrew Lorenzana, a Class of 2016 alumnus. “Those of us who have done more of the work (on identity) can share what it’s like to go on to graduate school or be out in the workplace as LGBTQ+.”
Lorenzana launched the chapter at the beginning of 2025 as a natural addition to the existing LGBTQ+ associations for faculty, staff and students. It’s a perfect time to join the CSUCI LGBTQ+ Alumni Association, Lorenzana said, as it’s in the development stage, so members can help shape the association from the ground up.
Director of Career Development and Alumni Engagement Amanda Carpenter applauded the newest addition to the Alumni & Friends Association and the community of 30,000+ CSUCI alumni.
“This chapter provides a meaningful space for LGBTQ+ alumni and students to connect, celebrate, and support one another through mentorship, networking, and shared experiences,” Carpenter said. “As we honor Pride Month, we recognize the extraordinary voices, contributions, and journeys of our LGBTQ+ alumni and students. I’m excited to see the powerful impact this chapter will have in building a more vibrant, inclusive, and engaged alumni network.”
As membership grows, Lorenzana plans to add events, fundraisers and scholarships and more. October is LGBTQ History Month, so Lorenzana plans for the chapter to be part of CSUCI’s Homecoming Week.
To get involved, or learn more, email CIPride.alumni@gmail.com, or, if you’d like to join, visit the CSUCI Alumni & Friends Association website.