I am writing in response to Heather Cutler's letter in The Daily Collegian Friday, in which she addresses the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Student Alliance's request for Project TEACH! Ms. Cutler's main argument is that LGBSA must take on the task itself and not expect the University to provide a staff person to educate the community about homophobia.

Ms. Cutler's characterization of Project TEACH! as something that will "serve the needs of the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Student Alliance" shows she does not understand the project's nature. Project TEACH! would not serve the LGBSA; rather, it would be a way for the University to educate students, faculty and staff about heterosexism and homophobia, a task currently fulfilled largely by students.

Ms. Cutler says LGBSA members ought to take more interest in their education and less interest in persuading the administration. If one leaves aside the argument that extracurricular activities are part of one's education, one finds LGBSA and Ms. Cutler agree on this point. From my conversations with LGBSA members, I know one of the reasons they are asking the administration to take responsibility for educating the community is so the organization's members can have more time to devote to their academic interests.

If the University administration would do its part and accept some responsibility, then the gay, lesbian and bisexual students on this campus could concentrate on why they came to Penn State -- to get an education. Until the folks at Old Main do take on the job, LGBSA continues to enrich the campus community.

Since Ms. Cutler thinks students ought to take a "more active role" instead of requesting help from the administration, maybe she will want to do her part by attending a workshop titled "Taking a Stand: Becoming an Ally to Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Friends" at 7 p.m. tonight in the HUB Gallery Lounge.