LGBTQ Program Director Recognized for Work, Service
LGBTQ Affairs program director Jennifer Hoefle is one of this year’s Peter W. Likins Inclusive Excellence Award recipients. The award recognizes indivudals who emphasize the importance of campus-wide inclusion and diversity through their actions.

By Tyler J. McDowell-Blanken, University Communications
Feb. 20, 2012

In Jennifer Hoefle's office, a rainbow-colored flag hangs to the right above her desk.

This flag is more than just decoration. It embodies the life work of Hoefle, program director for the University of Arizona Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning, or LGBTQ, Affairs.

There, she oversees programs that address the varied issues facing the LGBTQ community. Health, wellness and equal housing opportunities are among the issues Hoefle said are pressing, and which she works to address.

Because of her relentless commitment, Hoefle is being honored as a staff recipient of this year's Peter W. Likins Inclusive Excellence Award.

"It is truly an honor to be recognized," said Hoefle, adding that she initially was surprised after hearing of her selection.

Inclusive Excellence Awards are given to "individuals who have made significant contributions toward enhancing the UA's academic excellence by helping to create a diverse and inclusive campus community." The award reception will be held Feb. 21 from 2-3:30 p.m. in the Santa Rita Room of the Student Union Memorial Center.

Laura Hapeman, a graduate assistant of higher education, views the energy and passion that Hoefle brings to the campus community as traits that are immeasurably vital. Having first met Hoefle at he beginning of the 2010-11 school year, Hapeman was struck by how welcoming she was.

"Despite the fact that I did not know any other volunteers at the LGBTQ office, she instantly made me feel like a part of the team, and thanks to her, I have been working for the office ever since," Hapeman said. 

Hoefle points to the UA's 2011 Rainbow Graduation as her proudest moment since assuming the position of program director. The annual event invites students and faculty and community members to celebrate students from the LGBTQ community who are graduating from the UA.

"I saw students whom I had known since their first year. They are truly the lifeblood of this campus," she said.

Born and raised in Tucson, Hoefle is well-acquainted with the city and community beyond the UA. 

Arriving at the UA in 2007, Hoefle began as a program coordinator for social justice education programs through the UA's Center for Student Involvement and Leadership. She was later promoted to her current role in LGBTQ Affairs.

"This is my dream position. I am deeply grateful for having the opportunity to work with some truly amazing students," said Hoefle, who spent her undergraduate years and early professional career in Flagstaff, Ariz.

Hoefle credits her mother, Karen Sparks, as one of her biggest supporters and a main reason why she is able to maintain simultaneous success and happiness.

"My mom is an amazing rock in my life," said Hoefle, noting that her mother has supported her every step of the way throughout her childhood and professional career.

Hoefle said the love and support she receives from her partner of seven years also is a motivating factor, keeping her focused on important work.

"She helps me to put things into consideration, while also allowing me to grow and change. I owe a great portion of my sanity to her," Hoefle added. 

No matter the project, Hoefle emphasizes the importance of inclusion and campus collaboration. For example, LGBTQ Affairs is co-sponsoring various month-long UA events in celebration of Black History Month.

"I have never worked with anyone more passionate or dedicated to her job than Jen," Hapeman said. "She pours so much of her heart into her work that her passion is evident in all the she does."

Organizations off campus also have been attentive to Hoefle's dedication. 

Recently, she was named the Godat Award recipient, an award granted by Wingspan, southern Arizona's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community center. The award honors those who advocate on behalf members of Southern Arizona's LGBTQ community.

With one more noteworthy award to add to an already expanding collection, Hoefle is on pace for a great 2012 with seemingly no end in sight.

Said a smiling Hoefle: "I guess this is my year."

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Jennifer Hoefle

LGBTQ Affairs

520-626-1996

jhoefle@email.arizona.edu