The Gerry Huerth Diversity and Equity Center is a safe space for all students, faculty and staff to be in community. It is an environment where students feel respected, valued and heard. The space has a lounge that students use for homework, recharging, conversations and making friends. Beyond the lounge is the 2SLGBTQIA+ Sanctuary for students who identify in the community and are active allies. It is also where Q.U.E.E.R Club holds its meetings.
Welcome to the Gerry Huerth Center
History of the Center
In August 2018 the Gerry Huerth Center doors officially opened and we finally had a safe space for LGBTQIA+ students, staff, and faculty. We named it after Gerry Huerth, our mentor and elder who paved the way with her/his generosity and kind spirit. Kara Olson, the Q.U.E.E.R. Club faculty advisor, along with had a wonderful group of changemaking students, one of them being Nishana Ramsanai (now a current nursing student) advocated for the necessity of the Center. They embodied the spirit of diversity, equity and inclusion by locking arms and fighting for a necessary space.
Get to Know the Staff
Justice Fisher and Christie Kopietz’ are the Diversity and Equity Specialists who both have offices attached to the lounge area. See their bio’s below
Christie Kopietz (She/Her/hers)
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Business Management University of Minnesota- Crookston Minor- Coaching
- Master of Science in sociology from North Dakota State University - College teaching certificate
About/Fun Facts
- Born in the United Kingdom grew up in Canada.
- Married, mother of two children
- Has a great dane named LuLu
- Former college soccer player and coach
- Swiftie
Justice Fisher (They/Them)
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Social Work from St. Catherine University
- Master of Social Work with a focus on Multicultural Macro Practice Social Work from Augsburg University
About/Fun Facts
- I identify as multi-racial, queer, first-generation graduate and professional.
- Passionate about mental health, equitable access & accessibility
The people in the space allow the students to come in here and be their authentic selves”
~Fatoumata
“Its very welcoming and it’s the only spot on campus where I feel like I can be myself”
~Crown
Queer Club
Join us!
When: Wednesdays, 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Where: 2SLGBTQIA+ Sanctuary (In Gerry Huerth Center)
Preferred Name Change
If a student wants to do a preferred name change update online under our Forms Page, specifically there is a preferred name request form or in e-Services under “Account Management”.
If the student wants to do an official name change or gender change, they have to do this in person at Records & Registration. They need to bring documentation showing the change (i.e. birth certificate, SS card, drivers license, etc).
Gender Neutral Bathrooms
NHCC offers several genders-neutral bathrooms, also known as all-gender, gender-inclusive, or unisex restrooms. These can be used by anyone regardless of gender identity or expression.
Center Hours
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday- Friday
Location: Campus Center 103