Honoring Heritage, Supporting Student Success
Supporting Student Success Through Sexual Health Education
By Luz Gonzalez, Associate Dean of Health Services & Promotion, Dallas College
At Dallas College, we believe true student success begins with wellness. If students don’t have their basic needs met, it can be difficult—sometimes impossible—for them to focus on their studies. That’s why we take a holistic approach to wellness, addressing not only academics but also physical, emotional, and sexual health.
Why Sexual Health Matters for Student Wellness
Sexual health education is an essential part of our wellness framework. When students have access to accurate, inclusive information, they gain the tools to make informed decisions, prevent unintended outcomes, and protect their overall health. This knowledge also helps them foster healthier relationships and feel more confident navigating their college years.
By providing students with education and services, we’re not just helping them in the moment—we’re creating an environment where they can thrive, both personally and academically.
Overcoming Barriers
We know that students often face significant barriers when it comes to accessing sexual health education and care. Stigma, cost, and limited access to trusted services can keep them from getting the support they need.
At Dallas College, we’re working hard to change that. We partner with community providers, bring mobile clinics to campus, and host educational sessions and events to open up conversations. All of our campus health centers offer free contraceptive methods and consultations to connect students with community resources for continuity of care. These efforts help students feel safe, supported, and empowered to make choices about their health.
For many Hispanic students in particular, stigma remains a powerful barrier. Sexual health can feel like a taboo subject within families or communities, making it difficult for students to ask questions. That’s why we prioritize creating safe, judgment-free spaces where students know their voices will be heard and respected.
Programs That Make an Impact
One program that really resonated with our Hispanic students was our recent Sexual Health Carnival. By making the event engaging, approachable, and fun—with interactive activities, bilingual resources, and strong community partnerships—we were able to meet students where they are.
The feedback we received was powerful. Many students shared that sexual health wasn’t something they grew up talking about. One student told us, “I’m glad I’m learning about this now because it wasn’t something I grew up talking about.” Comments like these remind us just how important it is to continue building safe, open spaces for these conversations.
Looking Ahead
At Dallas College, our vision is bigger than helping students get through a semester. We want to equip them with advocacy skills and knowledge that extend into their families, workplaces, and communities.
Our collaboration with Healthy Futures of Texas has been vital in this work. Partnerships like this expand the resources and expertise we can provide while helping us build deeper trust with our students. Together, we’re connecting students to support networks they can rely on well beyond graduation.
By providing accurate information, access to care, and a culture of empowerment, we’re helping students carry lifelong skills that strengthen the communities they are part of.
####
