Robert Cremmins, ’16, Senior Admissions Counselor at Farmingdale State College (FSC), has had a front-row seat to the growth of the 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, plus) community on campus for the past 11 years. He feels like the campus has grown in leaps and bounds since he was a student here. “The administration has always supported students to take creative liberties and offer suggestions” said Cremmins.
FSC, along with the Pride Club, have celebrated National Coming Out Day each year with live drag shows. The College recently held its first Lavender graduation and its second Pride Prom. FSC is now recognized by the Human Rights Campaign, an advocacy group for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
“At the first touch point as counselors, we want students to feel safe and comfortable on campus. ‘Will I be welcomed?’ ‘Will I be accepted?’ I think these questions are a big factor for students in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community,” said Cremmins. “FSC does a great job at being progressive. I love seeing the students thrive here every day.”
Students and employees at FSC can identify themselves using a chosen first name that differs from their legal name. This name will show up on the ID cards, class rosters and more.
Across campus, gender inclusive bathrooms have been installed in Quintyne Hall, Lupton Hall and the Campus Center, putting safety and comfort as top priority.
Cremmins, who grew up in Massapequa, said he came out after high school, and “My parents were awesome. They just wanted me to choose happiness. My siblings were very supportive.”
He encourages students to find their happiness. “College is a time of growth and FSC
gives the 2SLGBTQIA+ community a chance to grow and find their happiness in a safe
environment. I’ve met a lot of supportive people on the campus, and I hope we can
be that place for others as well.”
