Rams for PRIDE

Rams for PRIDE was established in 2025 thanks to the support and guidance of a group of dedicated members of the VCU LGBTQ+ community. The initiative’s goal is to empower individuals, amplify voices and cultivate meaningful connections among all members of the VCU and LGBTQ+ communities.

Gay Alliance of Students 50th Anniversary

On Oct. 17, 1974, the Gay Alliance of Students at VCU was denied official student organization status by the university’s Board of Visitors. In response, the group of students began a legal battle that ultimately led to a landmark victory. On Oct. 28, 1976, the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that VCU must officially recognize the group and afford them the same rights and privileges as any other student organization.

As we approach the 50-year anniversary of the organization’s recognition on campus, we honor the courage, resilience and advocacy of VCU’s LGBTQ+ and ally community who led this charge as well as the path they paved for LGBTQ+ student organizations in Virginia and five other states.

We are proud to mark this historic anniversary with a year of events across VCU centering celebration, commemoration, community and a commitment to the welfare of LGBTQ+ individuals and all members of the VCU community.

Questions? Contact Josh Leidy, director, affinity engagement and philanthropy.