Career Development Center Earns Silver "Out for Work" Status

UofL's Career Development Center has been awarded Silver Status for 2015-16 from the national "Out for Work" organization, which assess programming and resources that equip LGBT students for future careers.

The award is an increase from last year's bronze status. This year's score was 87 percent.

Under the guidance of director Trey Lewis, the UofL Career Development Center has made LGBT students a focus of its programming and collaborated with the LGBT Center and community organizations to develop new services.

"We know that LGBT students face unique challenges as they anticipate their future careers. For some, just the question of when to come out is an obstacle to their work experience.  We want to be sure we are helping them answer those questions thoughtfully," said Lewis.

Candace Lamb, assistant director of the center, hosts regular workshops and coaching sessions to address the needs of LGBT students. She is a frequent guest facilitator at the LGBT Center , has helped the center's LGBT ambassadors develop their brands and online presence, and hosted panels with successful LGBT corporate employees.

"The goal is to take a look at career exploration through the eyes of LGBT students, and to build a program that makes them feel included and supported," she said.

Lamb organized a vendor fair for LGBT employee resource groups this year as part of the university's Pride Week celebration. "It's what I love, opening up career opportunities to those who might not yet realize that they can achieve their dreams."