I’m involved in several outreach programs. In particular, I am passionate about an inclusive community and support for LGBT+ scientists.

UChicago+

During the pandemic, I created a messaging group aimed at queer UChicago students to make connections during lockdown. The group has now grown into UChicago+ (also written as UChicago Plus), a recognized student group (QGroup) under the Center for Identity & Inclusion and a registered student organisation (RSO) recognized and supported by the University of Chicago.

As of writing, UChicago+ has nearly five hundred members and dozens of events. We are the largest LGBT+ student group at the University of Chicago, and we provide a venue for students across campus to connect and feel welcomed, especially during turbulent times.

As the founder and president of the largest LGBT+ student group on campus, I, and several other members of my organization, meet regularly with university administrators to advocate for the needs of LGBT+ students on campus, including providing LGBT+ and international students alternative housing during summer and winter breaks and ensuring proper medical and mental healthcare is available to all students.

For my work, I have been recognized with the LGBT+ Community Engagement Award from the UChicago Alumni Pride Association and UChicago Center for Sexuality and Gender Studies and the Out to Innovate Scholarship from the Out to Innovate (formerly the National Organisation of Gay and Lesbian Science and Technical Professionals, NOGLSTP).

Mentorship

I have mentored five students through the Women in Physics Mentorship Program and the graduate student mentorship program run by the Physical Sciences Division’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office. Mentorship involved checking on students, giving advice on academic progress and career path, as well as resources and support for coming out in the workplace.

I have additionally mentored two undergraduate women during summer research projects as part of the Leadership Alliance. To learn more about the research I did with my students, head to my CV page.

LGBT in STEM Recognition Events

I’ve participated in several events that shined a light on LGBT+ scientists.

Out in STEM

Hosted by the Physical Sciences Division’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office, I gave a brief interview and discussed my experiences as a queer scientist and was highlighted along with other LGBT and ally colleagues.

International LGBT+ in STEM Day, 2018

While doing my Masters at Cardiff University, I organized an event celebrating International LGBT+ in STEM Day. I coordinated with Enfys, the Cardiff University’s LGBT network, to secure funding and location to host a 50-person event. I also invited two speakers to come and discuss their experiences in the LGBT community.

My dog and I at the Chicago Pride Parade in June 2022, where we marched with the University of Chicago.