Trans @ UR
Trans at Rochester
A Handbook for Transgender Students Navigating Social, Administrative, and Medical Gender Affirmation at the University of Rochester
Introduction
Who is the guide for?
We designed this guide to help transgender, non-binary and/or gender expansive students
navigate social, administrative, and medical gender affirmation while attending the University
of Rochester (UR) and living in the Rochester community. For brevity, the label “trans” may be
used throughout the guide to refer to transgender, non-binary and/or gender expansive
people. However, the information contained in this handbook can be used by anyone who
needs it, whether or not they identify as transgender, non-binary and/or gender diverse. It can
also provide faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends of the University with information about
how to support trans students.
What does this guide contain?
This guide contains how-tos and information pertaining to steps a student may take to affirm
their gender. It also contains relevant information about aspects of student life that pertain to a
trans student, such as housing and athletics. Contact information for campus and community
resources are outlined as well
What does this guide not contain?
This guide does not contain general information about terminology that transgender, non-
binary and/or gender expansive people use; what it means to be trans; how to come out as
transgender to professors, family, or friends; or how to undergo gender affirmation. This guide
also does not provide medical or legal advice. For information on the University of Rochester’s
LGBTQ Coordinator, see here.
Campus Climate
Safe Zone
Safe Zone training at the University of Rochester is a dynamic, interactive session for students
that includes activities and discussion around LGBTQ issues, including inclusive and respectful
language, the process of coming out, understanding sexual and gender identity, taking action
on our campuses and in our workplaces, where to go for help, and much more. Students
present training to their peers and give participants the skills they need to provide support and
to create environments that are safe, welcoming, and inclusive.
Safe Space
The Safe Space Program encourages employees to provide inclusive environments for all people regardless of their gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation. Safe Space
Champions are individuals not departments, for it is individuals who must use their voice and
their actions to create LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, “plus”
many others) welcoming environments. The University of Rochester Safe Space Program
consists of two courses. At the core, they are designed to reduce the bias and ignorance that
can lead to homophobia, transphobia and sexist interactions.
Any employee who completes the Safe Space Series and signs the University’s Safe Agreement is given a Safe Space sticker, pin and buttons to display their status as a University Safe Space Champion. Safe Space trainers also offer a course called “Expanding Gender” for individuals who are looking to expand their knowledge about gender identity and expression.
For questions about Safe Space training, visit here.
Nondiscrimination Policy
“The University prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of age, color, disability,
domestic violence victim status, ethnicity, gender identity or expression including transgender
and gender expansive identities, genetic information, marital status, familial status or an
individual’s reproductive health decision-making, military/veteran status, national origin, race
(including hair style), religion/creed (including religious attire and facial hair), sex, sexual
orientation, citizenship status, arrest or conviction record, or any other status protected by law
(hereafter each of these will be referred to as a “Protected Class”). Discrimination or harassment based on a Protected Class will not be tolerated, and is considered misconduct that will be subject to discipline.”
The University of Rochester’s non-discrimination policy protects Gender identity and expression.
Questions and concerns can be directed to the Title IX Coordinator and Assistant Vice President for Civil Rights Compliance, Catherine (Kate) Nearpass at titleix@rochester.edu.
Reporting Incidents
Student Sexual Misconduct Website
Some incidents of harassment and discrimination against transgender and/or gender
nonconforming students fall under the domain of Title IX. Title IX (“Title Nine”) is a law that
protects people from sex discrimination at universities that receive federal funding, including
the University of Rochester.
If you wish to report an incident that you believe violates Title IX, click here for several options for reporting incidents.
Bias-Related Incident Reporting
A bias-related incident is characterized as a behavior or act—verbal, written, or physical— that is personally directed against or targets an individual or group based on perceived or actual characteristics. Bias-related incidents can be reported through the CARE Network’s Bias-Related Incident reporting form. Gender identity and gender expression are expressly included in the description of incidents that can be reported through this form.
If a bias-related incident report describes an incident that violates Title IX, it is forwarded to the Title IX Coordinator and Director of University Student Services Coordination, for review. Otherwise, Jessica Guzmán-Rea, Assistant Dean for Diversity, AS&E, and the director of the Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center, reviews it.
To File a Bias-Related Incident Report –
1. Click here.
2. Select the Submit button under “Bias-Related Concern.”
3. Fill out the form and click Submit
Center for Student Conflict Management
The Center for Student Conflict Management (CSCM) is part of the Office of the Dean of Students. CSCM uses a variety of processes to resolve conflicts. Students who contact CSCM about a conflict will be connected with a staff member to discuss their options. If a student
decides to pursue a conflict resolution process, a trained facilitator will lead and moderate the process. Contact the CSCM to speak to a staff member.
Conflict Management (CSCM)
(585) 275-4085
conflict.management@rochester.edu
Wilson Commons 510
Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center
The Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center (BIC) provides numerous resources and programs related to cultural competency and intercommunity dialogue. In addition, the director of BIC is responsible for reviewing and responding to Bias-Related Incident Reports. Serious incidents
that have a wider impact on the University community may be reviewed and responded to by the Bias-Related Incident Executive Team.
For more information about BIC or bias-related incident reporting, contact Jessica Guzmán-Rea, the director of BIC.
Jessica Guzmán-Rea, EdD
Assistant Dean for Diversity, AS&E
Director, Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center
she/her/hers
BIC Director
(585) 275-9701
jessica.guzman-rea@rochester.edu
All-Gender Bathrooms
The River Campus has several all-gender bathrooms as well as some single-occupancy gendered bathrooms. Here is a list of those bathrooms on the River Campus. It should be noted that students who live off campus cannot access campus residence hall/apartment buildings with their student ID.
● Anderson Hall – 1st floor – room 115
● Anderson Hall – Basement across from elevators – room 11
● Anderson Hall – Basement across from elevators – room 12
● Bausch & Lomb Hall- 3rd floor- room 396W
● Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center – ground floor – room G12A
● Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center – ground floor – room G12B
● Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center – 1st floor – room C161
● Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center – 1st floor – room C163
● Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center – 2nd floor – room 204
● Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center – 2nd floor – room 205
● Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center – 2nd floor – room C232B
● Bloch Alumni and Advancement Center – 2nd floor – room C232C
● Burton Hall – 1st floor – room 107
● Burton Hall – 3rd floor – room 311
● Carlson Science and Engineering Library – Lower Level – room 106 (has ablution station)
● Carlson Science and Engineering Library – Lower Level – room 107 (multi-stall)
● Crosby Hall – 1st floor – room 125
● Crosby Hall – 1st floor – room 126
● Computer Studies Science Library (CSSL) – 2nd floor – room 209A
● Computer Studies Science Library (CSSL) – 2nd floor – room 209B
● Dewey Hall- 1st floor – room 1141 and 1143
● Dewey Hall – 4th floor, room 4203
● Drama House – all bathrooms (shower available)
● Frederick Douglass Building – 2nd floor, room 211 (family restroom)
● Frederick Douglass Building – 3rd floor – room 301A
● Frederick Douglass Building – 4th floor – room 416
● Frederick Douglass Building – 4th floor – room 417 (family restroom)
● Genesee Hall – 1st floor inside athletic training room – room 102
● Genesee Hall – 2nd floor lobby – room 221
● Genesee Hall – 3rd floor – room 306
● Genesee Hall – 3rd floor – room 324
● Genesee Hall – 4th floor – room 416B (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 4th floor – room 416C (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 4th floor – room 416D (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 4th floor – room 416E (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 4th floor – room 416F (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 4th floor – room 416G (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 5th floor – room 516B (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 5th floor – room 516C (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 5th floor – room 516D (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 5th floor – room 516E (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 5th floor – room 516F (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 5th floor – room 516G (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 6th floor – room 616B (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 6th floor – room 616C (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 6th floor – room 616D (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 6th floor – room 616E (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 6th floor – room 616F (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 6th floor – room 616G (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 7th floor – room 716B (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 7th floor – room 716C (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 7th floor – room 716D (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 7th floor – room 716E (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 7th floor – room 716F (has shower)
● Genesee Hall – 7th floor – room 716G (has shower)
● Gilbert Hall – 1st floor – room 104
● Harkness Hall – 1st floor – room 105A
● Harkness Hall – 1st floor – room 105C
● Hoeing Hall – 1st floor – room 138
● Hoeing Hall – 1st floor – room 139
● Hopeman Building – 4th floor – room 402
● Hutchison Hall – 3rd floor – room 321A
● Lattimore Hall- 5th floor- room 535A
● LeChase Hall – 1st floor – room 146
● Meliora Hall- 3rd floor- room365/365A and 364/364A
● O’Brien Hall – 1st floor – room 144
● Rush Rhees Library – 1st floor, Evans Lam Square – room 126 (7 individual restrooms)
● Rush Rhees Library – 2nd floor – room 208C (family restroom)
● Rush Rhees Library – 2nd floor – room 208D
● Rush Rhees Library – 2nd floor – room 208E
● Sage Hall – Basement – room B6
● Sage Hall – Basement – room B8
● Spurrier Hall – 1st floor – room 108
● Taylor Hall – 1st floor – room 33
● Todd Union – 1st floor – room 105A
● Wegmans Hall – 2nd floor – next to room 2512 (not labeled)
● Wegmans Hall – 4th floor – room 4516
● Wilder Hall – basement across from elevators – room 11
● Wilder Hall – basement across from elevators – room 12
● Wilmot Building- 1st floor- room 111
● Wilson Commons – 3rd floor – room 306
● Wilson Commons – 3rd floor – room 306A
Name Change
Here’s the current link for student preferred name change information is found.
A legal name change submitted to the Registrar changes the student’s name everywhere that is updated by the Workday system. When you matriculate into the University of Rochester, the name on your application becomes the name on your student record. You may also add a preferred name or change your name legally with the registrar.
For day-to-day student life, you are free to use the name you are most comfortable with. The preferred name is used in class rosters.
Preferred Name Instructions
UR Student (Required for other name changes below. Please wait a day to make the other changes)
● Login to UR Student
● Click on your picture in the upper right of UR Student
● Click “View Profile”
● Click “Actions”
● Click “Change preferred name”
● Uncheck “Use Legal Name as Preferred Name”
● Now enter your preferred name and click “submit”
To Add Pronouns
● Log in to UR Student
● Click on your picture in the upper right of UR Student
● Click “View Profile”
● Click “Actions”
● Click change my personal information
● Scroll to Pronouns and click the pencil to edit
● Make your selection and click “submit”
To Add a Preferred Name
Contact the Office of the University Registrar to make an appointment. To your appointment, bring an informal written request to add a nickname to your student file. This can be as simple as a piece of paper with your current name, requested nickname, your signature, and the date.
There are a limited number of places where your nickname can be used. One of the first places your new nickname will appear is the Online Directory, where you can edit your display preferences.
Office of the University Registrar
127 Lattimore Hall
(585) 275-8131
registrar@rochester.edu
To Edit Your Directory Preferences
Click here. You should be under the “Student” tab.
1. Log in with your Net ID and password under the “Complete Search” heading.
2. Click the link that reads “Edit your directory preferences.”
3. You can select or deselect information that you would like to share or hide. “Public” refers to anyone who does not have the ability to log in to the directory with a University Net ID. “UR Community” refers to anyone who has access and can log in with a University Net ID. Note: anyone who can log in to the online directory through a University account (“UR Community”) can always see your name, nickname, and email address. However, you can edit the information visible to the “public,” who do not have login access.
4. Hit “Save” at the bottom of the page to save your preferences. You can also use your
preferred name to create an alternate, or alias, email address.
To Create a New Alias Email Address
1. Contact University IT (request to speak with a full-time staff person, not with student staff ).
2. Tell them your online directory information was updated and that you’d like them to update the @rochester.edu email alias system. Your name should be updated instantaneously.
3. Visit it.rochester.edu/rochedualiaspages and log in using your Net ID and password.
4. Select a new alias address from the options listed under “New Address Options” and hit “Set Alias.” Your alias address should update within a few hours. Your alias address will be automatically listed in the online directory.
University Information
Technology (IT)
(585) 275-2000, press 2
univithelp@rochester.edu
IT Center Help Desk
To Change Your Name with Interlibrary Loan
Note: If you have never created an account with the Interlibrary Loan system, this action does
not need to be taken.
1. Visit illiad.lib.rochester.edu and log in.
2. Select “Change Personal Information” under the “Tools” heading toward the bottom of
the menu on the left-hand side.
3. Update any outdated information and select “Submit Information” at the bottom of the
page. Any future messages you receive from the Interlibrary Loan system will use your
preferred name.
Change Your Information with the CETL Tutoring Scheduling System
Note: If you do not have an account with CETL’s Tutoring Scheduling System website, this action does not need to be taken.
1. Visit rochester.mywconline.com and log in with your email address and password.
2. Hover over the “Welcome, Name” text, and a short drop-down menu will appear. Click “Update Profile and Email Options.”
3. Change the desired information and click “Edit Profile” to save your changes.
Legal Name Change
1. Complete the Student Name Change Form, available online or in the registrar’s office.
2. Bring the completed form along with required legal documentation to the Office of the University Registrar
University Registrar
Lattimore 127
585-275-8831
registrar@rochester.edu
Your name will automatically update in the following places:
• Transcript
• HRMS (campus job)
• Paychecks
• Tax Forms (W2)
• Financial Aid Office
• Office of the Bursar
If your legal name does not correspond to the name on your student file, it is still possible to
access the full services of the University without interruption. Your legal name will be kept
attached to your file at the Financial Aid and Bursar’s offices so that those services will not be
interrupted.
Your legal name will NOT be kept on file with HRMS, and any non-direct-deposit paychecks and other legal documents you receive will not bear your legal name. Direct deposit should not be interrupted. Your University-issued tax forms can be attached to your identity via your social
security number or other identifying information.
The nature of a formal name change is such that it is very likely, if not guaranteed, that your
new name will be made known to your parent(s) or guardian(s). If this is a concern for you, consider other methods of name change.
You can also update your name independently in the following places:
• Net ID
• ID Card
• URMC Global
• Campus Mail Center
• CCC Website
• Housing Office
To Change Your Net ID
1. Contact University IT (request to speak with a full-time staff person, not with student staff ).
2. Tell them your name has changed in URStudent and that you would like a new Net ID.
3. If you run in to any problems, ask to contact the supervisor of the person handling your ticket. Changing your Net ID is certainly possible!
To Get a New Student ID Card
1. Visit the ID Office in Susan B. Anthony Hall.
2. Be sure to bring:
a. Your old ID card, or $15 if you wish to keep your old ID.
b. Recommended: A small sheet of paper that reads “Old name: (full old name), New name: (full new name).” This will help the ID office staff create your new ID card.
3. Tell them that your name has changed and request a new ID card.
University Information
Technology (IT)
(585) 275-2000, press 2
univithelp@rochester.edu
IT Center Help Desk
If the name on your new student ID does not match your legal name, consider regularly
carrying a form of identification in your current legal name if you do not do so already.
To Change Your Name in the URMC Global Address List
Note: If you have never been issued a URMC email address, your name is not registered with
the URMC Global Address List and this action does not need to be taken.
1. Contact the Information Services Division (ISD) Help Desk. The ISD states that calling is strongly preferred as issues can be worked out much more easily over the phone.
2. Tell them that your name has changed in the Active Directory and that you would like to change your information in Global. Your username, email address, and name in Duo will be changed.
3. If you use eRecord: A name change with URMC will disrupt your eRecord access. The ISD office recommends calling just before a weekend or other two-day period of time off.
4. If you use Sharepoint: When you contact the ISD Help Desk, mention that your name will also need to be changed in your Sharepoint drive. Changes in URMC Global will not update Sharepoint automatically.
Information Services Division
(ISD) Help Desk
(585) 275-3200
helpdesk_ISD@URMC.Rochester.edu
To Change Your Name at the Campus Mail Center
1. Visit the Campus Mail Center (CMC) in Todd Union.
2. Bring your new ID or an informal note with your student ID number, CPU box number, and new name. This will help the CMC staff find you in their system and change your name.
3. Head to the package store window and inform them that you need to change your name
in the system. They will be able to change it at the computer.
4. Don’t forget to visit the front post office window and ask to have the label inside your
CPU mailbox updated as well.
The CMC’s name system is updated annually from the bursar’s office but can be manually
changed at any time. You can change your name at the post office without undergoing a formal
name change, but this guide does not recommend doing so. Otherwise, when your name is
automatically changed back at the beginning of each academic year, it will be inconsistent with
your student ID, which will cause problems when picking up packages.
To Change Your Information with Campus Community Connection (CCC)
You are able to edit your first name in CCC in your user profile. If the process is not working,
contact wcsa@rochester.edu.
Gender Marker Change
When you matriculate into the University of Rochester, the gender marker you specify on your
application becomes the gender marker on your student record.
The gender marker on your student record does not dictate your participation in any gender-
specific student groups or activities. It is not displayed on your class rosters and is not used for
most University documents or correspondence, including tax forms.
● Login to UR Student
● Click on your picture in the upper right of UR Student
● Click “View Profile”
● Click “Actions”
● Click Personal Data
● Click Change My Personal Information
● Scroll to Gender and click the pencil to edit
● Make your Selection
Your gender marker will not automatically update in any other systems, but it can be updated independently with the following departments:
• CCC Website
• Housing
• Athletics
Housing
The Office for Residential Life and Housing Services works with trans students on a case-by-case basis to make the best housing arrangements for each student. Residential Life has a good reputation for providing safe and suitable accommodations for trans and gender nonconforming students. If any issue arises, Residential Life suggests contacting them as soon
as possible.
Students should also inform Residential Life of any family-related safety concerns; the housing contract is between the student and the University, and Residential Life staff has several options to increase student safety.
Incoming Students
Incoming first-year and transfer students have the ability to indicate their gender as Male, Female, Transgender, and/or Other on the housing contract they receive prior to move-in. A student who is transgender who seeks housing accommodation should contact Residential Life and Housing Services directly. A student who wishes to room with a student of another gender should contract Residential Life directly. The director of Housing Operations will work with students individually to review the options and come up with a supportive housing plan.
Contact housing@reslife.rochester.edu.
RAs, D’Lions, First-Year Fellows, and other Residential Life staff are not informed about the
presence of a trans student on their hall or floor without the student’s express permission.
Residential Life staff has a good track record of maintaining confidentiality in a wide variety of
situations.
Continuing Students
Because there are a wide variety of suite, apartment, and single-occupancy housing options for
upperclass students, Residential Life encourages trans continuing-students first to try to
identify their own best option through the housing lottery so that they may live in the area of
campus they prefer, near friends, and/or in the fraternity and sorority life or special interest
housing program they prefer. If you are not able to select an option that works for you, contact
Juliane Schnibbe (add page number once design done) to discuss specific needs and explore
available alternatives.
Room Changes
Students who want to make a room change after their initial room assignment should contact
Residential Life and ask to meet with Juliane Schnibbe to discuss their housing needs. Room
changes during the semester are limited. A room change between the fall and spring semesters
can often be fulfilled when Residential Life is made aware of a student’s needs before spring
semester housing assignments. It should also be noted that a first-year student might be placed in upperclass housing, but that this arrangement is generally a last resort for students who cannot be accommodated by first-year housing facilities.
Name and Gender Information
When an incoming student is introduced into the housing system, their name and gender
marker are pulled from the student record and recorded in a separate system maintained by
Residential Life. Students wishing to change their name and gender marker with housing should work directly with residential UR.
Your name on file with Residential Life will be used for the roster of names given to Residential
Life staff, the name on any packets or information given to you by Residential Life, and any
correspondence mailed directly from Residential Life. Mailings from Residential Life are rare
and occur only in case of emergency, and staff is well versed in keeping student information
confidential. As stated above, Residential Life should be made aware of any safety concerns
related to a student’s trans/gender nonconforming status and their family.
To Change Your Information with Housing
1. Email housing@reslife.rochester.edu and request that your name and gender marker be
changed in any systems used by Residential Life.
2. In the email, provide your old name and/or gender marker, your preferred and/or
gender marker, and your student ID number. For gender marker, you may select one of
the following: Male, Female, Transgender, Other.
There is an option for notes to be added to your file. If you would like to add a gender
clarification, your pronouns, your legal name, or any other information to this section of your
file, include a note about that in your email to Residential Life. Your changes will be manually
entered into Odyssey.
Juliane Schnibbe
Director of Student Housing Administration/Graduate and Off-Campus Programs
(585) 275 3166
020 Gates Wing, SBA
juliane.schnibbe@rochester.edu
Athletics and Recreation
The Department of Athletics and Recreation is committed to the inclusion of all students who
wish to participate in sports. Students should feel more than welcome to approach the
department administrative or coaching staff for accommodations, to report concerns, or to
clarify any questions students may have.
Policy on Varsity Athletics
The varsity athletics programs at the University of Rochester follow the Inclusion of
Transgender Student-Athletes policy published by the National Collegiate Athletic Association
(NCAA) Office of Inclusion. The publication spells out guiding principles and best practices for
schools, coaches, and fellow student-athletes, as well as rules and regulations surrounding
hormone therapies.
Intramural Programs
Intramural programs at the University of Rochester follow the guidelines of the National
Intramural and Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA).
Club Sports
Most club sports, if they have any regulations above the individual organization’s level, have individual league organizations and guidelines. Consult your league’s guidelines for policies.
Club sports also follow NIRSA guidelines.
Facilities
Alternate bathroom, shower, and locker room facilities are available in the Goergen Athletic
Center. Alternate facilities are available by key access only, and facilities may not be available
during game times, especially weekends. To be given a key to these facilities and for more
details about the schedule of availability, contact Kris Shanley.
Kris Shanley
she/her/hers
Associate Athletic Director
(585) 275-6277
kristine.shanley@rochester.edu
Goergen Athletic Center 1115
Awards/Publicity
Student-athletes specify their preferred name to their coach/director at the start of
participation in a program. In media coverage of a student athlete, Athletic Communications
will use the name provided by the coach and the pronouns that align with the gender of the
team the student-athlete is playing on. If you would like to change your name on your roster,
talk to your coach/director or an athletics staff member (this guide recommends contacting Kris
Shanley). If you would like to change the name and/or pronouns that are used for media
coverage of you, contact Scott Sabocheck, the director of Athletic Communications.
Scott Sabocheck
he/him/his
Director of Athletic Communications
(585) 276 6838
scott.sabocheck@rochester.edu
Goergen Athletic Center 2143
Fraternity & Sorority Life
In recent years, many fraternities and sororities have adjusted their membership policies to
indicate which students are eligible to join based on their gender identity. Many of these
policies now specify that organizations welcome transgender members. A complete list of
organizations’ gender eligibility policies is provided on the Fraternity and Sorority Affairs
website.
The following organizations have a formal policy of inclusion of binary transgender students:
● Alpha Delta Phi
● Alpha Kappa Alpha
● Alpha Phi
● Alpha Phi Alpha
● Beta Theta Pi
● Chi Omega
● Delta Gamma
● Delta Gamma
● Delta Kappa Epsilon
● Delta Sigma Theta
● Gamma Phi Beta
● Kappa Alpha Theta
● Kappa Delta
● Lambda Sigma Upsilon
● Lambda Upsilon Lambda
● Mu Sigma Upsilon
● Psi Upsilon
● Sigma Delta Tau
● Sigma Phi Epsilon
● Sigma Psi Zeta *Also open to non-binary individuals*
● Theta Chi
John DiSarro
he/him/his
Director of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs
(585) 275-3167
john.disarro@rochester.edu
Wilson Commons 201
Health Care
Student Health Insurance
The University of Rochester’s Student Health Insurance Plan (Aetna) covers care related to
gender affirmation. This care includes hormone therapy, medical and psychological counseling,
surgery, tracheal shave, nipple reconstruction, electrolysis of face and neck, voice and
communication therapy and chest binders.
A few important documents outline those services:
● The Summary of Coverage and Benefits gives an overview of the costs and coverage for
general categories of treatment, including prescription medications and inpatient and
outpatient surgery.
● The Certificate of Coverage and Schedule of Benefits, provides additional level of detail
to define coverage detail, referral requirements, and any limitations or exclusions that
might apply.
All of these documents can be found by visiting the Aetna Student Health website, and searching for the University of Rochester. For assistance with navigating student health insurance, contact Kristi Brock, the University Health Service, Business Operations Manager.
Kristi Brock
she/her/hers
University Health Service
Business Operations Manager
(585) 275-2683
kbrock@ur.rochester.edu
University Health Service (UHS) Primary Care
“At UHS, patients are treated with respect, dignity, and privacy in a caring and considerate
manner. The staff members of UHS appreciate the value of human differences. UHS vigorously
opposes all intolerance and discrimination concerning differences including, but not limited to,
the following: gender identity and/or presentation (including transgender); marital status; sex;
sexual orientation. Our staff members are dedicated to providing a safe and confidential
environment for patients to voice and discuss their health concerns and issues.”
UHS offers the following services: Gender affirming hormone therapy, Trans friendly sexual
health & contraceptive care (including testing and treatment of STI’s, contraception, menstrual
suppression, and PrEP), Trans friendly primary & preventative care, and providing referrals for
electrolysis, voice therapy, and surgery. To make an appointment call (585) 275-2662.
UHS Primary Care
(585) 275-2662
UHS Building, 1st floor
University Counseling Center (UCC)
UCC provides a range of different services for students seeking gender-related mental health
care, and for gender-expansive students wanting an affirming therapy experience (which may
or may not be related to gender). Students seeking individual therapy can be paired with
gender affirming counselors; we have staff who specialize in transgender health and
accompaniment for physical, emotional and social transition. These staff members can write
letters for hormone therapy and surgery. There is also an LGBTQ+ therapy group held weekly
during the academic year.
The UCC as an agency is committed to trans affirming and gender inclusive care at every step of our process, and we are working to remain attuned to individual, campus and community
needs. If you think you would like to receive services or hear more about us, you can schedule
an Initial Assessment (our first step) or receive information at (585) 275-3113.
University Counseling Center
(585) 275-3113
UHS Building, 3rd floor
UHS Health Promotion Office
The UHS Health Promotion Office provides a large variety of wellness programming and
services to students. Topic areas that they focus on include health equity, mental well-being,
nourishment and body image, sexual health, and sleep. Visit their LGBTQ+ Health webpage to
access the Queer Health Resource Guide, as well as information each year on their annual
LGBTQ+ Resource Fair. Some other services offered by the UHS Health Promotion Office
include STI testing clinics and Safe Sex Express, which mails safer sex supplies to your campus mailbox for free.
UHS Health Promotion Office
(585) 273-5775
UHS Building, 4th floor
The Mindful University Project
The Mindful University Project is an interdisciplinary collaboration with a mission to empower
our campus community to build a culture of mindful presence and compassion. They offer a
variety of programs such as Koru learn-to-meditate classes, silent meditation retreats, drop-in
meditation sittings, candlelight yoga, student mindfulness facilitator trainings, and more! With
a dedication to be inclusive to minoritized identities of sexuality and gender (MIoSG) student
populations, they offer OUTBreath Koru meditation classes specifically for the U of R LGBTQ+
community to provide a safe place and an added sense of belonging where they can learn and
practice mindfulness together.
Gender Health Services at Golisano Children’s Hospital
“The Division of Adolescent Medicine at Golisano Children’s Hospital, University of Rochester,
has services available to aid families, youth, and young adults (through age 25) who identify as
transgender, gender fluid, or have other questions or concerns about their gender.”
The Gender Health Services clinic provides hormone therapy and social work services as well as coordinated care/referrals for mental health and surgical care. The website also has resources for teens, parents and families, providers, and schools. Gender Health Services prescribes hormones using the WPATH Standards of Care and requires a therapist’s letter. Contact or visit the Division of Adolescent Medicine’s office at Strong Memorial Hospital to schedule an appointment. The office is located to the left of the main lobby in the Pediatric Specialties 1 suite. Since spring 2016, appointments are booked three to four months in advance.
Gender Health Services at GCH
(585) 275-2964
Golisano Children’s Hospital
Trillium Health
Trillium Health is a community health care organization that caters to the HIV+ and LGBTQ
populations. It offers primary care, an on-site pharmacy and lab, insurance assistance, and
various community support services. Doctors at Trillium prescribe hormones using the informed
consent model, which does not require a therapist’s letter.
Call the main office at (585) 545-7200 to schedule an appointment.
Trillium Health
(585) 545-7200
259 Monroe Ave.
Rochester, NY 14607
Other Providers
Founded in 1996 as the Men of Color Health Awareness Project, The MOCHA Center has
worked to educate Black and Latino men about living a sex-positive life. Over the years, our
mission and the people we work with have grown. Now in partnership with Trillium Health,
we’ve turned into a community health center that offers both community and health in equal
amounts—providing a safe place to network, socialize, and address any health issues you face
The MOCHA Center
189 N. Water St., Suite 1, Rochester, NY 14604
(585) 420-140
Support Groups
The University of Rochester and the greater Rochester area have several community support
groups for trans and/or gender nonconforming people. This guide will provide resources that
are specifically geared toward the trans and/or gender nonconforming community only. A list of
general LGBTQ resources and support groups, such as Pride Network and the Out Alliance
(formerly the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley), here.
Pride Network
The Pride Network offers emerging LGBTQ+ leaders opportunities for personal transformation
and professional development to create change within themselves and in our communities.
ABCs (Anything But Cis).
ABCs is a group under the Pride Network that creates a voice for all non-cisgender individuals.
Individuals can attend biweekly meetings to plan and organize events for transgender
awareness as well as discuss their needs as non-cisgender identifying people, have productive
conversations on the ways in which to improve society and campus life, and feel safe
throughout this process. The group does not have a general email, but you can contact anyone
who is on the executive board for Pride Network (see CCC webpage), and they can give more
information on ABCs.
Queer Students of Color
Queer Students of Color acts as a liaison for inclusivity, diversity, and equity in representing
LGBTQ students of color. Queer Students of Color holds events and programs under PRIDE
throughout the year.
• Social Media: @urqsoc (Facebook) and urqueerstudentsofcolor (Instagram)
• Email: URQSOC@gmail.com
Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center (BIC)
Col Raimond connects students to a variety of resources and helps them navigate all of the
procedures and systems listed in this book and beyond. They take pride in helping students,
learning from the future leaders of our community, and creating safe spaces in the world. Using
the lens of intersecting identities, Col is a resource for LGBTQ students and allies alike.
Queer Students of Color
Queer Students of Color at the University of Rochester is a safe space discussion group
that meets every two weeks in the Burgett Intercultural Center. This space serves the
underrepresented people of color within the queer community and, aside from Pride Network,
provides a place with no judgement to talk about the intersectional issues that queer students
of color face. The meetings range from game nights and watching movies to discussing issues
such as racism in the dating world. All years and grad students are welcome to join this safe
space. Email QSOCBIC@gmail.com for details about meetings.
TINT (Trans, Intersex, Non-Binary, and Two-Spirit)
TINT is an informal social group for trans, gender non-conforming, and questioning University of Rochester students. Email TINTBIC@gmail.com for details about meetings.
Col Raimond
Director of LGBTQ Life and AS&E Staff Ombudsperson
(585) 276-3970
col.raimond@rochester.edu
305G Douglass Commons
Susan B. Anthony Center
John Cullen is the associate director of the University of Rochester’s Susan B. Anthony Center
and a professor of clinical and director of Diversity and Inclusion for the University of Rochester
Medical Center Clinical and Translational Science Institute. In 2014, he completed a graduate
certificate in LGBT health policy and practice at George Washington University. His work at the
University of Rochester has led to gender identity and expression being added to the
organization’s nondiscrimination policy, to the establishment of transition-related health care
benefits for both students and employees, and to the launch of the Trans@UofR webpage and
handbook.
John P. Cullen, PhD
(he/him/his)
Associate Director
(585) 273-2127
john_cullen@urmc.rochester.edu
Meliora Hall, Suite 346
Genesee Valley Gender Variants
Genesee Valley Gender Variants (GVGV) was founded as a social meet-up group for gender
variant people in the Genesee Valley area of upstate New York and our allies. The group
welcomes all gender identities, all gender presentations, and all sexes and also provides room
for you to discover yourself, in whatever ways make you unique.
GVGV meets every Thursday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. at Equal Grounds Coffee Shop, 750 South Ave.
Trans Alliance of Greater Rochester Quick Directory
Trans Alliance of Greater Rochester (TAGR) is an inclusive transgender social/educational group which welcomes all gender variant individuals and allies ages 18+. Meetings are partly
educational, with structured programming but also have a social component, where members
have a chance to connect with each other and share information. TAGR meets on the third
Saturday of every month from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at MCC Open Arms Community Center located at
707 East Main St.