How Universities Navigate Trans* Student Identities

ABSTRACT As more college students identify as trans*, an umbrella term for all transgender, nonbinary, and gender non‐conforming individuals, more research is needed to determine how universities are supporting trans* students' needs. Recent federal and state decisions have the potential to significantly impact higher education and trans* individuals making this work increasingly relevant, as well as challenging. How do universities support trans* students? How will this support change in the light of new legislation? This review focuses on current literature that encompasses academics, mental health, student life, housing, restrooms, athletics, and violence on campus. This review also emphasizes queer theory and its application to these various topics. While trans* students experience more harassment and a lower sense of belonging than cisgender peers, research shows that there is evidence of resilience in the face of these challenges. The climate around campus organization's openness to trans* student members is also shifting. Contested spaces like on‐campus housing, restrooms, and athletics eligibility lead to challenging decisions for institutions as well. This review provides recommendations for each space with the goal of making them more inviting and navigable. Interpretations and implications of these findings are presented. Finally, suggestions for future research are also offered.