What does identifying (or not identifying) with the BGLTQ community mean to you?

It means a shared experience growing up with family and friends that are likely not like you, and often don't or can't understand what your experience is, or how to guide you to understand who you and build up a support structure for your identity. Your LGBTQ family is one that you choose to create that support system.

How, if at all, has your identity shaped your academic and/or professional journey?

I'm very fortunate to work in a field (the arts, theater specifically) where being gay is much more common, understood, and embraced. Growing up gay, however, taught me that I have to fight harder to be treated equitably, and given me a great empathy for others who are marginalized. That instilled in me some great skill sets and motivation for thriving professionally and academically.

What advice would you give to yourself when you were an undergraduate?

Don't hang your self worth on the opinions of others. Give yourself some slack. Love what and who you love, and the right people will gravitate to you.

What support can you provide to current undergraduate BGLTQ students who are hoping to enter into your field?

A LOT of support. My positions exist specifically to help students on their personal journeys, as well as their professional ones. I teach skill sets, share resources, help facilitate artistic projects, connect students with Guest Artists and Alumni in their fields, and just listen if students are facing personal challenges and help get them the support they need.

What are your areas of expertise?

Theater (performance, design, and administration), Dance, Music, Studio Arts, Creative Writing, Film, Producing, Marketing, Event Planning, LGBTQ issues