ISU Alliance Blog

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender student services has a new coordinator who is hoping to improve an already solid program at Iowa State.

Brad Freihoefer previously worked with the LGBT center at Minnesota State University in Mankato, but starts his career at Iowa State on Monday. He said he has been working the last five years for this type of opportunity.

“For me, this is really a dream job,” Freihoefer said.

He received a bachelor’s degree in women’s studies from Minnesota State University in Mankato and worked as a sexual violence advocate, responding to crisis situations in his home county. He also served as a community adviser in the residence halls, where he said he learned a lot about leading students.

At Minnesota State, Freihoefer said he worked with the second-oldest LGBT program in the country and served as a face and name for LGBT issues on campus.

He said he hopes to make LGBT students feel more at home at Iowa State.

“I’m going to bring excitement to talk about these issues,” Freihoefer said. “I want to change the atmosphere of the LGBT student services office and make sure all students feel that they’re welcomed there.”

He said his first goal is to make sure students know where the LGBT student services office is and what they do. He said he will primarily serve as support for students, but will also be creating programs to educate people about LGBT issues.

“I want to help students, that’s what it really comes down to. Students coming out, especially, is a difficult process and I want to help students get through that process. I want to help them feel safe,” Freihoefer said.

Upon first visiting Iowa State, Freihoefer said he was impressed with the LGBT program, although there is still room for improvement. He said Iowa State’s strong foundation is thanks in part to the work of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Ally Alliance and a supportive faculty and staff.

“That’s one thing I noticed when I was coming in for the interview. There’s really been support for this position and support for LGBT issues,” Freihoefer said. “That’s really helpful, I’m really excited to work with a population that is welcoming — and even for those who may not be, I’m willing to engage in conversations.”

He said he moved to Ames over the weekend, and because he grew up in rural Wisconsin and has spent the last five years in rural Minnesota, should feel right at home at Iowa State.

“From what I’ve seen of the Ames community and Iowa State campus, I’m going to fit right in. I’m looking forward to it,” he said.

Freihoefer invites any students to meet with him and introduce themselves at the LGBT student services office, located in the first floor of the Student Services building.

“Even though this is an LGBT-specific position, I’m here for all students, regardless of their race, class, gender, sexuality or ability level,” Freihoefer said. “I think we’re all going to try to grow together.”