Shy Wells is the new assistant director for multicultural services/LGBTQ+ student services. A former student, Wells is a Springfield local.
Wells graduated in May 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in social work and a minor in medical terminology and is now pursuing a master’s degree in social work online while leading a valuable campus resource.
A shared perspective
Wells knows what it’s like to start in a new place.
“I was an online, two-time transfer student who was not sure if I had a place on campus,” Wells said. “It was not until I came to the Multicultural Resource Center that I discovered that I did have people around me who looked, thought and believed in the same things that I did.”
These personal experiences are what Wells will keep with her as she serves in this position.
A passion for advocacy
Wells has actively advocated for marginalized groups and doesn’t plan on stopping.
In addition to previously working with teens and young adults in mental health crises, Wells has also earned certificates in trauma-informed care, ABA therapy, crisis intervention, and group therapy.
They have extensive experience in advising LGBTQ students and families and building relationships within the Springfield community.
Looking ahead
Wells is working towards a future where LGBTQ+ student services are not utilized solely by students.
“My hope for LGBTQ+ student services is to have more staff and faculty participate in our Safe Zone training,” they said. “I think we have a huge disconnect with our students who are LGBTQ+ as well as our students who are underrepresented, marginalized, or misrepresented.”
In addition, Wells wants to continue their involvement with the university community.
“I plan to begin more collaborations with our community to make campus more welcoming and create more allies for our students.”
Wells wants to create more meaningful connections between LGBTQ+ student services and the student body.
“I think one thing I wish students knew was that you do not have to identify yourself as LGBTQ+ to be an ally or show support,” Wells said. “This goes for much more than our LGBTQ+ students. This stands true for our students from nearly all backgrounds, religions, abilities, ages, and genders.”