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

As an educator and director of a Harvard program, I find a sense of pride in identifying as Queer/Lesbian. My artwork has a lot to do with issues of gender and sexuality so it a conversation I am comfortable having with large groups or simply in the classroom.

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

Growing up, I identified as straight, then bi in my 20'sand then came out as Queer/Lesbian in my early 30's. I am married today to my wife April. Wearing these different identities and discovering who I am influenced my narrative artwork with an emphasis on the journey.

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

To not feel that I needed to be one thing or claim one identity. When asked, I could have simply said that I was figuring it out. I felt like I needed to be on "a team" when I was still trying to figure out who I was attracted to.

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

My field would be in the arts and I am happy to help any student who links their own creativity to their identity whether it be sharing the challenges, sorrows or celebrating their joy.

What are your areas of expertise?

Art, Ceramics, Sculpture, Arts Administration