In honor of National Coming Out Day, San Diego College of Continuing Education (SDCCE) invites students, employees, and community members to a special event celebrating courage and authenticity. “It Got Better: Life After Coming Out” will take place on Wednesday, October 8, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Cesar Chavez Campus in Barrio Logan. To attend please register here.

This gathering will feature stories from members of the SDCCE community and the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD), reflecting on the journey of coming out and life afterward. Through these personal experiences, the College of Continuing Education hopes to inspire, uplift, and remind everyone that they are not alone.

Panelists include SDCCD Trustee Craig Milgram and, from Continuing Education: SDCCE Foundation Board President and Student Services Technician Neill Kovrig, Culinary Arts faculty member Lee Blackmore, Professional Development Coordinator Carla Grossini-Concha, Be Well Mental Health Counselor Jeremy Garcia, Senior Student Services Technician Marquest Glover, and students from a variety of career training programs.

In addition to the October 8th celebration, the College of Continuing Education provides year-round, specialized on-campus support and counseling for LGBTQIA+ students. The Pride Center offers access to confidential counseling and free health screenings with LGBTQIA+ Student Success Coordinator Dr. Lisa Carulli, who supports students in navigating their identities and achieving personal and academic success.

Students also have access to the Be Well CCE Mental Health and Wellness Center, which provides free wellness resources. Mental health counselors Garcia and Elizabeth Barajas specialize in supporting LGBTQIA+ students, offering a safe and affirming space that honors each student’s values, culture, and identity.

For more information about Be Well or SDCCE’s free career training programs and classes, visit SDCCE.edu.