Strengths of student-driven model: 

Student energy 
Less likely students will question right of Allies to "speak for them" 
Access to recognized student groups' campus resources 
Strengths of staff/faculty-driven model: 
Continuity 
Student affairs expertise 
Resources and power
 
Workshop training versus mass stickering: 

Strengths of stickering model: 
Shorter timeline to implement program 
Greater participation 
Greater number of stickers = more welcoming environment 
Strengths of workshop model: 
Participants better understand purpose, challenges, resources, expectations 
Participants can make an informed decision to sign contract 
Participants demonstrate commitment to mission
 
Defining Allies as "supportive" versus "straight": 

Better to define ability to support than one's sexual orientation 
LGBT people are allies, too 
"Gaydar" is so unreliable

 
Choosing to not seek official University recognition: 

More freedom from administrative pressure 
But, administration may try to co-op Allies for political reasons 
Rely on staff/faculty for campus meeting space 
Donations and fundraisers for budget

 
If challenged by administration: 

Right of every student to an education 
Student affairs staff mission and job duties 
Use literature and surveys to support goals

 
If concerns raised by LGBT community: 

Meet with LGBT staff, faculty, and students in person 
Clarify role of Allies program 
Brainstorm potential allies 
Extend invitation to get involved

 
If LGBT faculty/staff ask why they should attend seminars: 

Show commitment 
Learn of program's purpose, structure, expectations, and resources 
Give valuable LGBT perspective at seminar

 
If questioned why only LGBT (vs. all marginalized groups) are being singled out: 

Society sanctions bigotry toward LGBT people, so students need signal of safe zone 
Allies training and continuing education includes awareness of multiple identities and oppression 
Potential LGBT mentors may be hidden because of campus climate

 
Language and naming the community 

Be sensitive to the use of "queer" versus "LGBT" 
Educate allies on what the "B" and "T" stand for 
Be inclusive when creating programming, seminars, and publicity