Trekell named LGBT Campus Center director

Eric Trekell, director of Student Support Services at Adams State College in Alamosa, Colo., will direct the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Campus Center at UW–Madison.

“Eric has wonderful experience as a student affairs professional and a strong track record of demonstrated commitment to advocating on behalf of LGBT-related climate issues,” says Dean of Students Luoluo Hong.

The LGBT Campus Center, the newest unit to join the reorganized Office of the Dean of Students, is responsible for fostering a learning environment that supports the academic, personal, and interpersonal growth and development of LGBT students. It is a student-founded and student-driven center.

Trekell, who earned a master’s degree in education administration from Texas A&M University and an undergraduate degree in government from Adams State College, will begin on Sept. 8. His office will be in the Memorial Union.

In his duties at Adams State, he worked to establish a “Faculty Allies” program to support LGBT students, as well as other programs designed to assist first-generation college students, low-income students and students with disabilities. Trekell was also involved in an organizing and leadership capacity with the Aggie Allies (the campus’ gay-straight alliance) while at Texas A&M.

“I’m looking forward to moving ahead in a new direction with the student staff at the center,” he says.

While students will continue to play an important leadership role in the LGBT Campus Center, Trekell is expected to help improve services by providing continuity and efficiency, says Hong.