Wesley Foundation

The Wesley Foundation is a campus ministry open to everyone at Appalachian State University and Caldwell Community College- Watauga Campus. Their mission is "to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world through campus ministry." The Wesley Foundation is still active today and invites students to become a part of their journey.

The Appalachian Gay Awareness Association also met here under the leadership of Jeff Isenhour after they formed in 1975. The purpose of this organization was to provide information and awareness, to improve the stereotyped image of the LGBTQ+ community, to inform the campus of the needs of this community, and to create a network for them to communicate with each other.

In the 1970s, Kathryn Staley reported that gay men in particular had co-opted the Wesley Foundation as a space to gather. At the time, campus ministries were not typically thought to be LGBTQ+ friendly, but many have theorized that the building’s location directly across from Valborg Theatre influenced its new function. 

Sources

Appalachian Wesley Foundation. "About Wesley." The Wesley Foundation. 

"Gay Liberation Comes to Appalachian State University (1969-1979)." Kathryn Staley.