Princeton LGBTQIA+ Oral History Project

1990s

24 Interviews
12 Archive Entries
PRINCETON LGBTQIA ORAL HISTORY PROJECT • PRINCETON LGBTQIA ORAL HISTORY PROJECT • 
PRINCETON LGBTQIA ORAL HISTORY PROJECT • PRINCETON LGBTQIA ORAL HISTORY PROJECT • 

Mary Foulk

Foulk writes about her exposure to queer identities through her older brother, her Princeton roommate, and her time studying in New York City. She charts her gradual acceptance of her lesbian identity and her movement towards reflection and activism. Foulk also discusses her time at Princeton where she played squash and studied in the English Department. She explores how these experiences influence her as a writer, educator and activist.

Foulk writes about her exposure to queer identities through her older brother, her Princeton roommate, and her time studying in New York City. She charts her gradual acceptance of her lesbian identity and her movement towards reflection and activism. Foulk also discusses her time at Princeton where she played squash and studied in the English Department. She explores how these experiences influence her as a writer, educator and activist.

Class of 1991

Mary Foulk

Foulk writes about her exposure to queer identities through her older brother, her Princeton roommate, and her time studying in New York City. She charts her gradual acceptance of her lesbian identity and her movement towards reflection and activism. Foulk also discusses her time at Princeton where she played squash and studied in the English Department. She explores how these experiences influence her as a writer, educator and activist.

Foulk writes about her exposure to queer identities through her older brother, her Princeton roommate, and her time studying in New York City. She charts her gradual acceptance of her lesbian identity and her movement towards reflection and activism. Foulk also discusses her time at Princeton where she played squash and studied in the English Department. She explores how these experiences influence her as a writer, educator and activist.

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Tags
Lesbians, Women, White, Christian family, Tomboy, Athletics, English, Closeted, Brian Braeman, ​​Anne Jones, Marie Howe, Anastasia Vrachnos, Jennifer Rexford, Karen Krahulik, Betty Constable, Daily Princetonian, Amherst, Activism, Feminist activism, “Third World Center”, Cap and Gown (eating club), Student government, Don't Ask Don't Tell, Clubs/bars, Princeton in Asia, Alan Grache, AIDS activism, Shirley Tilghman, Marriage, Marriage Equality Movement, Gay marriage legalized, Kate Brown, Sperm donor, Parenting, Reproductive justice, Poetry, Vermont College of Fine Arts, Leslie Ullman, BTGALA, Every Voice conference, Northfield Mount Hermon, Employment discrimination, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Illness and death mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 21, 2023

Rodney Erwin

Erwin talks about his experience as a largely closeted gay and Christian student at Princeton. He discusses his involvement with the Princeton Evangelical Fellowship, the Freshman Summer Orientation Program, and the Princeton for Life movement. Further, he speaks on pressures to date women on campus, feelings of shame, and how he formed his first gay relationship while studying abroad in Russia. Later, he discusses accepting his identity after meeting his husband, his time in medical school, and how he ended up adopting four children. Finally, he discusses attending the Every Voice conference and his community with other gay alumni.

Erwin talks about his experience as a largely closeted gay and Christian student at Princeton. He discusses his involvement with the Princeton Evangelical Fellowship, the Freshman Summer Orientation Program, and the Princeton for Life movement. Further, he speaks on pressures to date women on campus, feelings of shame, and how he formed his first gay relationship while studying abroad in Russia. Later, he discusses accepting his identity after meeting his husband, his time in medical school, and how he ended up adopting four children. Finally, he discusses attending the Every Voice conference and his community with other gay alumni.

Class of 1990

Rodney Erwin

Erwin talks about his experience as a largely closeted gay and Christian student at Princeton. He discusses his involvement with the Princeton Evangelical Fellowship, the Freshman Summer Orientation Program, and the Princeton for Life movement. Further, he speaks on pressures to date women on campus, feelings of shame, and how he formed his first gay relationship while studying abroad in Russia. Later, he discusses accepting his identity after meeting his husband, his time in medical school, and how he ended up adopting four children. Finally, he discusses attending the Every Voice conference and his community with other gay alumni.

Erwin talks about his experience as a largely closeted gay and Christian student at Princeton. He discusses his involvement with the Princeton Evangelical Fellowship, the Freshman Summer Orientation Program, and the Princeton for Life movement. Further, he speaks on pressures to date women on campus, feelings of shame, and how he formed his first gay relationship while studying abroad in Russia. Later, he discusses accepting his identity after meeting his husband, his time in medical school, and how he ended up adopting four children. Finally, he discusses attending the Every Voice conference and his community with other gay alumni.

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White, Woodrow Wilson School, Methodist, Attraction to friend, First awareness of queer people, Queer awakening, Sexual Awakening, Butler (residential college), FLI students (First-Generation Low-Income), Orientation, Gospel Choir, Third World Center, Princeton Evangelical Fellowship, Princeton Christian Fellowship, Student government, Pro-Life Movement, Triangle Club, Face Book, First relationship, Closeted, Study abroad, Religion and queerness, Coming out, Friend acceptance, Employment discrimination, Medicine, Conversion therapy, Mental health, Pre-medical (educational track), Clubs/bars, Meeting partner, Marriage, Having children, Gay Alliance of Princeton (GAP), Murray Dodge, Firestone C Floor hookup spot, Cruising, HIV/AIDS crisis, Every Voice conference, LGBT alumni, Reunions, Family acceptance, Adoption, Senior thesis
Content Notice
Racism mentioned, Illness and death mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Harassment mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 15, 2017

Student Orgs and Events

1990 saw more name changes for groups at Princeton. The Lesbian/Bisexual Task Force renamed itself WoW (Women Oriented Women) with the Lesbian/Bisexual Task Force becoming the political side of the organization. PEARL (Princeton’s Eagerly Awaited Radical Lesbians) became the social organization, named after a rumored former underground women’s organization at Princeton.

GALAP sponsored the second Gay Jeans Day in 1990. The American Whig-Cliosophic Society, Princeton’s debate society, held a debate titled “Should Gay Jeans Day Happen?,” which saw one of Whig-Clio’s biggest turnout ever for a debate. After the debate, the final vote came out 66 to 26 in favor of Gay Jeans Day.

In February 1991, GALAP held a Valentine’s Day dance, which they advertised with a banner hung across McCosh Walk. The banner was torn down and burned. Such treatment of the Valentine’s Dance banner would become a homophobic Princeton “tradition” during the early 1990s.

1990 saw more name changes for groups at Princeton. The Lesbian/Bisexual Task Force renamed itself WoW (Women Oriented Women) with the Lesbian/Bisexual Task Force becoming the political side of the organization. PEARL (Princeton’s Eagerly Awaited Radical Lesbians) became the social organization, named after a rumored former underground women’s organization at Princeton.

GALAP sponsored the second Gay Jeans Day in 1990. The American Whig-Cliosophic Society, Princeton’s debate society, held a debate titled “Should Gay Jeans Day Happen?,” which saw one of Whig-Clio’s biggest turnout ever for a debate. After the debate, the final vote came out 66 to 26 in favor of Gay Jeans Day.

In February 1991, GALAP held a Valentine’s Day dance, which they advertised with a banner hung across McCosh Walk. The banner was torn down and burned. Such treatment of the Valentine’s Dance banner would become a homophobic Princeton “tradition” during the early 1990s.

Student Orgs and Events

1990 saw more name changes for groups at Princeton. The Lesbian/Bisexual Task Force renamed itself WoW (Women Oriented Women) with the Lesbian/Bisexual Task Force becoming the political side of the organization. PEARL (Princeton’s Eagerly Awaited Radical Lesbians) became the social organization, named after a rumored former underground women’s organization at Princeton.

GALAP sponsored the second Gay Jeans Day in 1990. The American Whig-Cliosophic Society, Princeton’s debate society, held a debate titled “Should Gay Jeans Day Happen?,” which saw one of Whig-Clio’s biggest turnout ever for a debate. After the debate, the final vote came out 66 to 26 in favor of Gay Jeans Day.

In February 1991, GALAP held a Valentine’s Day dance, which they advertised with a banner hung across McCosh Walk. The banner was torn down and burned. Such treatment of the Valentine’s Dance banner would become a homophobic Princeton “tradition” during the early 1990s.

1990 saw more name changes for groups at Princeton. The Lesbian/Bisexual Task Force renamed itself WoW (Women Oriented Women) with the Lesbian/Bisexual Task Force becoming the political side of the organization. PEARL (Princeton’s Eagerly Awaited Radical Lesbians) became the social organization, named after a rumored former underground women’s organization at Princeton.

GALAP sponsored the second Gay Jeans Day in 1990. The American Whig-Cliosophic Society, Princeton’s debate society, held a debate titled “Should Gay Jeans Day Happen?,” which saw one of Whig-Clio’s biggest turnout ever for a debate. After the debate, the final vote came out 66 to 26 in favor of Gay Jeans Day.

In February 1991, GALAP held a Valentine’s Day dance, which they advertised with a banner hung across McCosh Walk. The banner was torn down and burned. Such treatment of the Valentine’s Dance banner would become a homophobic Princeton “tradition” during the early 1990s.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Jen Rexford

Rexford speaks about her time as a closeted undergraduate and her current position as an electrical engineering professor at Princeton. She discusses attending Princeton as the final eating clubs went co-ed, participating in Take Back the Night, and writing a book about the experiences of Princeton's women engineering students. She also talks about exploring her sexuality in graduate school, coming out after graduate school, working for AT & T, and returning to Princeton as a professor.

Rexford speaks about her time as a closeted undergraduate and her current position as an electrical engineering professor at Princeton. She discusses attending Princeton as the final eating clubs went co-ed, participating in Take Back the Night, and writing a book about the experiences of Princeton's women engineering students. She also talks about exploring her sexuality in graduate school, coming out after graduate school, working for AT & T, and returning to Princeton as a professor.

Class of 1991

Jen Rexford

Rexford speaks about her time as a closeted undergraduate and her current position as an electrical engineering professor at Princeton. She discusses attending Princeton as the final eating clubs went co-ed, participating in Take Back the Night, and writing a book about the experiences of Princeton's women engineering students. She also talks about exploring her sexuality in graduate school, coming out after graduate school, working for AT & T, and returning to Princeton as a professor.

Rexford speaks about her time as a closeted undergraduate and her current position as an electrical engineering professor at Princeton. She discusses attending Princeton as the final eating clubs went co-ed, participating in Take Back the Night, and writing a book about the experiences of Princeton's women engineering students. She also talks about exploring her sexuality in graduate school, coming out after graduate school, working for AT & T, and returning to Princeton as a professor.

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Lesbians, Women, White, Electrical Engineering, Travel abroad, Questioning sexuality, Coming out, HIV/AIDS crisis, Heternormativity, Take Back the Night, Feminist activism, Sally Frank vs Eating Clubs Case, Society of Women Engineers, Engineering Council, Princeton becomes co-ed, Russian East European and Eurasian Studies, Libraries and queer awakening, Gay Jeans Day, Closeted, Mudd Manuscript Library, Engineering Quadrangle (EQuad), Computer Science, Out in STEM, First relationship, Athletics, LGBT Center, Every Voice conference, Reunions, Eating clubs, Elm (eating club), Disability activism, Internet dating, Meeting partner, Marriage, Having children, Parenting, Undergraduate, Faculty, Administration
Content Notice
Sexism mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 9, 2018

A Lesbian Was Here

In April 1991, WoW held a lesbian visibility campaign in which they plastered the campus with fluorescent stickers that read, “A Lesbian Was Here.” The group also published an article about lesbians on campus, paired with pictures of lesbian couples at various campus landmarks. The Sentinel, a conservative student publication, criticized the stickers, claiming they were unaesthetic, difficult to remove, and illegitimate as a means to campaign. On April 8, 1991, the Sentinel editor found the office door in Aaron Burr plastered with “A Lesbian Was Here” stickers. Sentinel writers expressed their disappointment in an editorial in The Daily Princetonian. On April 10th, Davida Wood and Karen Krahulik ‘91 wrote in to The Prince defending the stickers. They also asked why the Sentinel stickering was being covered so diligently when the GALAP banner burnings were not reported at all.

In April 1991, WoW held a lesbian visibility campaign in which they plastered the campus with fluorescent stickers that read, “A Lesbian Was Here.” The group also published an article about lesbians on campus, paired with pictures of lesbian couples at various campus landmarks. The Sentinel, a conservative student publication, criticized the stickers, claiming they were unaesthetic, difficult to remove, and illegitimate as a means to campaign. On April 8, 1991, the Sentinel editor found the office door in Aaron Burr plastered with “A Lesbian Was Here” stickers. Sentinel writers expressed their disappointment in an editorial in The Daily Princetonian. On April 10th, Davida Wood and Karen Krahulik ‘91 wrote in to The Prince defending the stickers. They also asked why the Sentinel stickering was being covered so diligently when the GALAP banner burnings were not reported at all.

A Lesbian Was Here

In April 1991, WoW held a lesbian visibility campaign in which they plastered the campus with fluorescent stickers that read, “A Lesbian Was Here.” The group also published an article about lesbians on campus, paired with pictures of lesbian couples at various campus landmarks. The Sentinel, a conservative student publication, criticized the stickers, claiming they were unaesthetic, difficult to remove, and illegitimate as a means to campaign. On April 8, 1991, the Sentinel editor found the office door in Aaron Burr plastered with “A Lesbian Was Here” stickers. Sentinel writers expressed their disappointment in an editorial in The Daily Princetonian. On April 10th, Davida Wood and Karen Krahulik ‘91 wrote in to The Prince defending the stickers. They also asked why the Sentinel stickering was being covered so diligently when the GALAP banner burnings were not reported at all.

In April 1991, WoW held a lesbian visibility campaign in which they plastered the campus with fluorescent stickers that read, “A Lesbian Was Here.” The group also published an article about lesbians on campus, paired with pictures of lesbian couples at various campus landmarks. The Sentinel, a conservative student publication, criticized the stickers, claiming they were unaesthetic, difficult to remove, and illegitimate as a means to campaign. On April 8, 1991, the Sentinel editor found the office door in Aaron Burr plastered with “A Lesbian Was Here” stickers. Sentinel writers expressed their disappointment in an editorial in The Daily Princetonian. On April 10th, Davida Wood and Karen Krahulik ‘91 wrote in to The Prince defending the stickers. They also asked why the Sentinel stickering was being covered so diligently when the GALAP banner burnings were not reported at all.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Karen Krahulik

Krahulik speaks about her time at Princeton as an out lesbian student, a part-time LGBA affairs coordinator, and her role as the senior associate dean for international affairs. She discusses discrimination she faced from roommates and members of the varsity swim team, support she received from other queer administrators, and her senior thesis on gay and lesbian marriage. Shealso talks about working part-time in LGBA affairs while attending graduate school, her time as the director of Duke University's LGBT Center, and her work as a dean at Brown. Finally, she discusses her return to Princeton, her gender identity, and conceiving her child.

Krahulik speaks about her time at Princeton as an out lesbian student, a part-time LGBA affairs coordinator, and her role as the senior associate dean for international affairs. She discusses discrimination she faced from roommates and members of the varsity swim team, support she received from other queer administrators, and her senior thesis on gay and lesbian marriage. Shealso talks about working part-time in LGBA affairs while attending graduate school, her time as the director of Duke University's LGBT Center, and her work as a dean at Brown. Finally, she discusses her return to Princeton, her gender identity, and conceiving her child.

Class of 1991

Karen Krahulik

Krahulik speaks about her time at Princeton as an out lesbian student, a part-time LGBA affairs coordinator, and her role as the senior associate dean for international affairs. She discusses discrimination she faced from roommates and members of the varsity swim team, support she received from other queer administrators, and her senior thesis on gay and lesbian marriage. Shealso talks about working part-time in LGBA affairs while attending graduate school, her time as the director of Duke University's LGBT Center, and her work as a dean at Brown. Finally, she discusses her return to Princeton, her gender identity, and conceiving her child.

Krahulik speaks about her time at Princeton as an out lesbian student, a part-time LGBA affairs coordinator, and her role as the senior associate dean for international affairs. She discusses discrimination she faced from roommates and members of the varsity swim team, support she received from other queer administrators, and her senior thesis on gay and lesbian marriage. Shealso talks about working part-time in LGBA affairs while attending graduate school, her time as the director of Duke University's LGBT Center, and her work as a dean at Brown. Finally, she discusses her return to Princeton, her gender identity, and conceiving her child.

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Content Notice
Slur, Homophobia mentioned, Sexism mentioned, Racism mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 15, 2018

Kathryn Hamm

Hahn speaks about attending Princeton as a queer, gender non-conforming student athlete. She describes how she was recruited to Princeton for the university soccer team, her mixed experience on the team, and her interest in gender and sexuality studies. She discusses how she came to terms with her sexuality, coming out to her family during her senior year, and campus reactions to Gay Jeans Day and Sally Frank's lawsuit against Tiger Inn. Finally, she talks about working as an out LGBT educator, leading a same-sex wedding business, and her experience returning to Princeton for the She Roars and Every Voice alumni reunions.

Hahn speaks about attending Princeton as a queer, gender non-conforming student athlete. She describes how she was recruited to Princeton for the university soccer team, her mixed experience on the team, and her interest in gender and sexuality studies. She discusses how she came to terms with her sexuality, coming out to her family during her senior year, and campus reactions to Gay Jeans Day and Sally Frank's lawsuit against Tiger Inn. Finally, she talks about working as an out LGBT educator, leading a same-sex wedding business, and her experience returning to Princeton for the She Roars and Every Voice alumni reunions.

Class of 1991

Kathryn Hamm

Hahn speaks about attending Princeton as a queer, gender non-conforming student athlete. She describes how she was recruited to Princeton for the university soccer team, her mixed experience on the team, and her interest in gender and sexuality studies. She discusses how she came to terms with her sexuality, coming out to her family during her senior year, and campus reactions to Gay Jeans Day and Sally Frank's lawsuit against Tiger Inn. Finally, she talks about working as an out LGBT educator, leading a same-sex wedding business, and her experience returning to Princeton for the She Roars and Every Voice alumni reunions.

Hahn speaks about attending Princeton as a queer, gender non-conforming student athlete. She describes how she was recruited to Princeton for the university soccer team, her mixed experience on the team, and her interest in gender and sexuality studies. She discusses how she came to terms with her sexuality, coming out to her family during her senior year, and campus reactions to Gay Jeans Day and Sally Frank's lawsuit against Tiger Inn. Finally, she talks about working as an out LGBT educator, leading a same-sex wedding business, and her experience returning to Princeton for the She Roars and Every Voice alumni reunions.

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Gay women, White, Tomboy, Gender nonconforming, Athletics, Queer awakening, Closeted, Coming out, Campus visit, Orientation, Forbes (residential college), Residential College Advisor (RCA), Gay Jeans Day, First relationship, Women’s Studies, Psychology, Women’s Center, Cap and Gown (eating club), Independent Meal Plan, Spelman, Attraction to friend, Coming out, Family acceptance, Meeting partner, Marriage, LGBT activism, Wedding, She Roars conference, Every Voice conference, LGBT Center, Sally Frank vs Eating Clubs Case, Feminist activism, Trump Administration, Having children
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 25, 2019

First Annual AIDS Awareness Week

GALAP, the GSU, USG, and the Women’s Center cosponsored the first annual AIDS Awareness Week November 26 - December 1, 1991. ACT-UP, the New York AIDS Activist Coalition for Education, and the Hyacinth Foundation all took part. A November forum on AIDS in minority groups also made space in campus dialogue that year to discuss problematic representation of AIDS victims as mostly white, homosexual men.

GALAP, the GSU, USG, and the Women’s Center cosponsored the first annual AIDS Awareness Week November 26 - December 1, 1991. ACT-UP, the New York AIDS Activist Coalition for Education, and the Hyacinth Foundation all took part. A November forum on AIDS in minority groups also made space in campus dialogue that year to discuss problematic representation of AIDS victims as mostly white, homosexual men.

First Annual AIDS Awareness Week

GALAP, the GSU, USG, and the Women’s Center cosponsored the first annual AIDS Awareness Week November 26 - December 1, 1991. ACT-UP, the New York AIDS Activist Coalition for Education, and the Hyacinth Foundation all took part. A November forum on AIDS in minority groups also made space in campus dialogue that year to discuss problematic representation of AIDS victims as mostly white, homosexual men.

GALAP, the GSU, USG, and the Women’s Center cosponsored the first annual AIDS Awareness Week November 26 - December 1, 1991. ACT-UP, the New York AIDS Activist Coalition for Education, and the Hyacinth Foundation all took part. A November forum on AIDS in minority groups also made space in campus dialogue that year to discuss problematic representation of AIDS victims as mostly white, homosexual men.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Alex Volckhausen

Alex Volckhausen discusses growing up in New York City during the AIDS epidemic and the crack epidemic. He then describes his social life at Princeton, as well as his feeling isolated from the queer community during his time as an undergraduate student. Volckhausen finally discusses studying architecture before embarking on a highly successful Broadway career after Princeton.

Alex Volckhausen discusses growing up in New York City during the AIDS epidemic and the crack epidemic. He then describes his social life at Princeton, as well as his feeling isolated from the queer community during his time as an undergraduate student. Volckhausen finally discusses studying architecture before embarking on a highly successful Broadway career after Princeton.

Class of 1993

Alex Volckhausen

Alex Volckhausen discusses growing up in New York City during the AIDS epidemic and the crack epidemic. He then describes his social life at Princeton, as well as his feeling isolated from the queer community during his time as an undergraduate student. Volckhausen finally discusses studying architecture before embarking on a highly successful Broadway career after Princeton.

Alex Volckhausen discusses growing up in New York City during the AIDS epidemic and the crack epidemic. He then describes his social life at Princeton, as well as his feeling isolated from the queer community during his time as an undergraduate student. Volckhausen finally discusses studying architecture before embarking on a highly successful Broadway career after Princeton.

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Biracial, Korean, White, Private School, Asian, Queer Awakening, Socioeconomic inequality, Legacy, Architecture, Reunions, Affinity groups, Ivy Club (eating club), Coming out, Family acceptance, Gay Jeans Day, Terrace Club (eating club), Eating clubs become co-ed, Hookups, Libraries and queer awakening, East Pyne bathroom (location), SHARE peers, McCosh 50 (location), Marriage, Christopher Eisgruber
Content Notice
Racism mentioned, Illness and death mentioned, Slur, Overdose mentioned, Sexual violence mentioned, Suicide mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 10, 2017

Cameron Scott

Scott shares his experience as a student who questioned his sexuality and gender while at Princeton. He speaks about going by his middle name on campus, the LGBT community in Terrace eating club, and struggling to find his place in Princeton's athletic and social life. He also discusses spending time at 185 Nassau, editing for the Nassau Literary Review, and his ambivalent experiences with Princeton professors. Finally, he speaks about attending graduate school, his transition journey, and building community with other LGBT people in California.

Scott shares his experience as a student who questioned his sexuality and gender while at Princeton. He speaks about going by his middle name on campus, the LGBT community in Terrace eating club, and struggling to find his place in Princeton's athletic and social life. He also discusses spending time at 185 Nassau, editing for the Nassau Literary Review, and his ambivalent experiences with Princeton professors. Finally, he speaks about attending graduate school, his transition journey, and building community with other LGBT people in California.

Class of 1993

Cameron Scott

Scott shares his experience as a student who questioned his sexuality and gender while at Princeton. He speaks about going by his middle name on campus, the LGBT community in Terrace eating club, and struggling to find his place in Princeton's athletic and social life. He also discusses spending time at 185 Nassau, editing for the Nassau Literary Review, and his ambivalent experiences with Princeton professors. Finally, he speaks about attending graduate school, his transition journey, and building community with other LGBT people in California.

Scott shares his experience as a student who questioned his sexuality and gender while at Princeton. He speaks about going by his middle name on campus, the LGBT community in Terrace eating club, and struggling to find his place in Princeton's athletic and social life. He also discusses spending time at 185 Nassau, editing for the Nassau Literary Review, and his ambivalent experiences with Princeton professors. Finally, he speaks about attending graduate school, his transition journey, and building community with other LGBT people in California.

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Transgender, White, Carter Adminstration, Activism, Girl Scouts, Athletics, Questioning gender, Family estrangement, Siblings, First awareness of queer people, First relationship, Questioning sexuality, Butch, Transitioning, Drugs, Breakup, Writing, Drinking culture, Attraction to friend, Study abroad, Body image, Campus visit, Rockefeller (residential college), Name change, Outdoor Action, Coming Out, Comparative Literature, Queer awakening, Queer, Closeted, Terrace (eating club), HIV/AIDS crisis, Travel Abroad, Cutting hair, Family acceptance, The Daily Princetonian, Sailing Team, Reproductive justice, Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS),185 Nassau, Nude Olympics, Drinking culture, Student death, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Academia, Journalism, Activism, Gender affirming surgery, Hormone therapy (HRT)
Content Notice
Illness and death mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Racism mentioned, Slur, Violence mentioned, Addiction mentioned, Suicide mentioned, Depression mentioned, Eating disorder mentioned, Fatphobia mentioned, Transphobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
June 12, 2017

Domestic Partner Housing

In 1991, Michael Costa *94 sought permission to live with his partner, Carlos Barrera, in University housing. Costa was denied, but Provost Paul Benacerraf formed a committee to research and make a recommendation on whether the University should recognize and issue ID cards to domestic partners. The committee made a positive recommendation, and ID cards were issued to domestic partners in 1992 on a one-year trial basis. Although ID cards were a far cry from the domestic partner benefits recommended in the Wartenburg Report, the cards granted domestic partners access to University sponsored events, as well as the gym and library.

In 1991, Michael Costa *94 sought permission to live with his partner, Carlos Barrera, in University housing. Costa was denied, but Provost Paul Benacerraf formed a committee to research and make a recommendation on whether the University should recognize and issue ID cards to domestic partners. The committee made a positive recommendation, and ID cards were issued to domestic partners in 1992 on a one-year trial basis. Although ID cards were a far cry from the domestic partner benefits recommended in the Wartenburg Report, the cards granted domestic partners access to University sponsored events, as well as the gym and library.

Domestic Partner Housing

In 1991, Michael Costa *94 sought permission to live with his partner, Carlos Barrera, in University housing. Costa was denied, but Provost Paul Benacerraf formed a committee to research and make a recommendation on whether the University should recognize and issue ID cards to domestic partners. The committee made a positive recommendation, and ID cards were issued to domestic partners in 1992 on a one-year trial basis. Although ID cards were a far cry from the domestic partner benefits recommended in the Wartenburg Report, the cards granted domestic partners access to University sponsored events, as well as the gym and library.

In 1991, Michael Costa *94 sought permission to live with his partner, Carlos Barrera, in University housing. Costa was denied, but Provost Paul Benacerraf formed a committee to research and make a recommendation on whether the University should recognize and issue ID cards to domestic partners. The committee made a positive recommendation, and ID cards were issued to domestic partners in 1992 on a one-year trial basis. Although ID cards were a far cry from the domestic partner benefits recommended in the Wartenburg Report, the cards granted domestic partners access to University sponsored events, as well as the gym and library.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Eddie Gonzalez-Novoa

Gonzalez-Novoa discusses his experiences at Princeton as a second generation Puerto Rican and gay student. He talks about how his cultural identity influenced his upbringing and how gymnastics determined his decision to attend Princeton. He speaks about forming a community through the Freshman Seminar Orientation Program, participating in student sit-ins at Nassau Hall, working within the Chicano Caucus, and his romantic relationships throughout college. Finally, he discusses taking a gap year, the relationship between eating clubs and students of color, and how he's maintained connections with Princeton student groups as an alumni.

Gonzalez-Novoa discusses his experiences at Princeton as a second generation Puerto Rican and gay student. He talks about how his cultural identity influenced his upbringing and how gymnastics determined his decision to attend Princeton. He speaks about forming a community through the Freshman Seminar Orientation Program, participating in student sit-ins at Nassau Hall, working within the Chicano Caucus, and his romantic relationships throughout college. Finally, he discusses taking a gap year, the relationship between eating clubs and students of color, and how he's maintained connections with Princeton student groups as an alumni.

Class of 1993

Eddie Gonzalez-Novoa

Gonzalez-Novoa discusses his experiences at Princeton as a second generation Puerto Rican and gay student. He talks about how his cultural identity influenced his upbringing and how gymnastics determined his decision to attend Princeton. He speaks about forming a community through the Freshman Seminar Orientation Program, participating in student sit-ins at Nassau Hall, working within the Chicano Caucus, and his romantic relationships throughout college. Finally, he discusses taking a gap year, the relationship between eating clubs and students of color, and how he's maintained connections with Princeton student groups as an alumni.

Gonzalez-Novoa discusses his experiences at Princeton as a second generation Puerto Rican and gay student. He talks about how his cultural identity influenced his upbringing and how gymnastics determined his decision to attend Princeton. He speaks about forming a community through the Freshman Seminar Orientation Program, participating in student sit-ins at Nassau Hall, working within the Chicano Caucus, and his romantic relationships throughout college. Finally, he discusses taking a gap year, the relationship between eating clubs and students of color, and how he's maintained connections with Princeton student groups as an alumni.

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Tags
Gay men, Puerto Rican, Latine/a/o/x or Hispanic, Public school, Spanish speaking, Religion and queerness, Catholic, Spiritual, Religion (concentration), Athletics, HIV/AIDS crisis, Campus visit, Third World Center, Wilson (residential college), Gap year, Senior thesis, Gospel Choir, Chicano Caucus, First relationship, Travel abroad, Queer awakening, Activism, Latino Task Force, Sexual Harassment/Assault Advising Resources and Education (SHARE), War, Gay Jeans Day, Office of Religious Life (ORL), Sue Anne Steffey Morrow, Murray Dodge, Princeton Interview, Dance, Reunions, BodyHype
Content Notice
Racism mentioned, Illness and death mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 19, 2018

Kevin Gonzalez

Gonzalez discusses his experience as a closeted gay student from Puerto Rico. He talks about intentionally repressing aspects of his queer identity, navigating the states as a student from outside the US mainland, his experiences with Gay Jeans Day, and how he came to terms with his identity during his senior year. He speaks on coming out after his time after Princeton, his relationship with his cultural and gay identities, and attending the Every Voice conference.

Gonzalez discusses his experience as a closeted gay student from Puerto Rico. He talks about intentionally repressing aspects of his queer identity, navigating the states as a student from outside the US mainland, his experiences with Gay Jeans Day, and how he came to terms with his identity during his senior year. He speaks on coming out after his time after Princeton, his relationship with his cultural and gay identities, and attending the Every Voice conference.

Class of 1994

Kevin Gonzalez

Gonzalez discusses his experience as a closeted gay student from Puerto Rico. He talks about intentionally repressing aspects of his queer identity, navigating the states as a student from outside the US mainland, his experiences with Gay Jeans Day, and how he came to terms with his identity during his senior year. He speaks on coming out after his time after Princeton, his relationship with his cultural and gay identities, and attending the Every Voice conference.

Gonzalez discusses his experience as a closeted gay student from Puerto Rico. He talks about intentionally repressing aspects of his queer identity, navigating the states as a student from outside the US mainland, his experiences with Gay Jeans Day, and how he came to terms with his identity during his senior year. He speaks on coming out after his time after Princeton, his relationship with his cultural and gay identities, and attending the Every Voice conference.

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Gay men, Men, Latine/a/o/x or Hispanic, International student, Spanish speaking, Therapy, Family acceptance, Closeted, Hookups, Heteronormativity, Terrace (eating club), Gay Jeans Day, Day of Silence, Gays and Lesbians at Princeton (GALAP), Valentine's Day Dance, Coming out, Mental health, Reunions, Law school, Fordham Law School, Clubs/bars, First relationship, Partner death, Every Voice conference, BTGALA, LGBT Center, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Illness and death mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 17, 2017

Maia Monet

Monet discusses her time at Princeton as a student and her gender transition later in life. She speaks about connecting with other LGBT students and meeting her ex-spouse. She speaks about managing the virtual alumni networking site named TigerNet after graduating from Princeton, coming to terms with her transgender identity, coming out to her family, and beginning her social and medical transition. Finally, she speaks about her youtube channel, the process of continually coming out to cisgender people, and her current relationship with campus.

Monet discusses her time at Princeton as a student and her gender transition later in life. She speaks about connecting with other LGBT students and meeting her ex-spouse. She speaks about managing the virtual alumni networking site named TigerNet after graduating from Princeton, coming to terms with her transgender identity, coming out to her family, and beginning her social and medical transition. Finally, she speaks about her youtube channel, the process of continually coming out to cisgender people, and her current relationship with campus.

Class of 1993

Maia Monet

Monet discusses her time at Princeton as a student and her gender transition later in life. She speaks about connecting with other LGBT students and meeting her ex-spouse. She speaks about managing the virtual alumni networking site named TigerNet after graduating from Princeton, coming to terms with her transgender identity, coming out to her family, and beginning her social and medical transition. Finally, she speaks about her youtube channel, the process of continually coming out to cisgender people, and her current relationship with campus.

Monet discusses her time at Princeton as a student and her gender transition later in life. She speaks about connecting with other LGBT students and meeting her ex-spouse. She speaks about managing the virtual alumni networking site named TigerNet after graduating from Princeton, coming to terms with her transgender identity, coming out to her family, and beginning her social and medical transition. Finally, she speaks about her youtube channel, the process of continually coming out to cisgender people, and her current relationship with campus.

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Lesbians, Women, Transgender women, Latine/a/o/x or Hispanic, Public school, Socioeconomic inequality, Acción Latina, Chicano Caucus, Third World Center, Eddie Gonzalez-Novoa, Wilson (residential college), Terrace (eating club), BTGALA, Shawn Cowls, The Fund for Reunion (FFR), TigerNet, Questioning gender, Closeted, Spanish-speaking, Questioning sexuality, Gay Jeans Day, First relationship, Long-distance relationship, Marriage, Having children, Jolanne Stanton, Princeton Chapel, Reunions, Divorce, Gender dysphoria, Coming out, Therapy, Hormone therapy (HRT), Name change, Internet and queer awakening, YouTube, Journalism, Film, Pulse nightclub shooting, Trump Administration, Gender affirming surgery, Music, LGBT activism, Transitioning, Debbie Bazarsky
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Transphobia mentioned, Suicide mentioned, Violence mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 20, 2017

LGBTA Valentines Dance Banner

When the LGBA (formerly GALAP) Valentines Dance poster was torn down and burned for the second year in a row in February 1992, President Shapiro publicly reprimanded the act in a letter to The Daily Princetonian . In the letter published on February 27th, the President stated “Acts of Vandalism directed at gay organizations, or behavior that demeans, intimidates, or threatens individuals because of their sexual orientation are deplorable examples of harassment.” The next year, LGBA students stood guard under their Valentine’s Dance banner on McCosh Walk. The students took a short break from the cold February weather in the architecture building. Though the architecture building was located on McCosh walk, they returned to find the banner missing. The remnants of the burned banner were found in the Engineering Quad parking lot.

When the LGBA (formerly GALAP) Valentines Dance poster was torn down and burned for the second year in a row in February 1992, President Shapiro publicly reprimanded the act in a letter to The Daily Princetonian . In the letter published on February 27th, the President stated “Acts of Vandalism directed at gay organizations, or behavior that demeans, intimidates, or threatens individuals because of their sexual orientation are deplorable examples of harassment.” The next year, LGBA students stood guard under their Valentine’s Dance banner on McCosh Walk. The students took a short break from the cold February weather in the architecture building. Though the architecture building was located on McCosh walk, they returned to find the banner missing. The remnants of the burned banner were found in the Engineering Quad parking lot.

LGBTA Valentines Dance Banner

When the LGBA (formerly GALAP) Valentines Dance poster was torn down and burned for the second year in a row in February 1992, President Shapiro publicly reprimanded the act in a letter to The Daily Princetonian . In the letter published on February 27th, the President stated “Acts of Vandalism directed at gay organizations, or behavior that demeans, intimidates, or threatens individuals because of their sexual orientation are deplorable examples of harassment.” The next year, LGBA students stood guard under their Valentine’s Dance banner on McCosh Walk. The students took a short break from the cold February weather in the architecture building. Though the architecture building was located on McCosh walk, they returned to find the banner missing. The remnants of the burned banner were found in the Engineering Quad parking lot.

When the LGBA (formerly GALAP) Valentines Dance poster was torn down and burned for the second year in a row in February 1992, President Shapiro publicly reprimanded the act in a letter to The Daily Princetonian . In the letter published on February 27th, the President stated “Acts of Vandalism directed at gay organizations, or behavior that demeans, intimidates, or threatens individuals because of their sexual orientation are deplorable examples of harassment.” The next year, LGBA students stood guard under their Valentine’s Dance banner on McCosh Walk. The students took a short break from the cold February weather in the architecture building. Though the architecture building was located on McCosh walk, they returned to find the banner missing. The remnants of the burned banner were found in the Engineering Quad parking lot.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Amy Whelan

Whelan talks about growing up in the suburbs of Boston, and coming to Princeton as a softball player. She discusses being in relationships with women while at Princeton, but not being completely out. She discusses working as a disability rights advocate, working on class action prison cases, and then ending up working on LGBTQ civil right litigation in San Fransisco. She ends by discussing her hopes for the future.

Whelan talks about growing up in the suburbs of Boston, and coming to Princeton as a softball player. She discusses being in relationships with women while at Princeton, but not being completely out. She discusses working as a disability rights advocate, working on class action prison cases, and then ending up working on LGBTQ civil right litigation in San Fransisco. She ends by discussing her hopes for the future.

Class of 1996

Amy Whelan

Whelan talks about growing up in the suburbs of Boston, and coming to Princeton as a softball player. She discusses being in relationships with women while at Princeton, but not being completely out. She discusses working as a disability rights advocate, working on class action prison cases, and then ending up working on LGBTQ civil right litigation in San Fransisco. She ends by discussing her hopes for the future.

Whelan talks about growing up in the suburbs of Boston, and coming to Princeton as a softball player. She discusses being in relationships with women while at Princeton, but not being completely out. She discusses working as a disability rights advocate, working on class action prison cases, and then ending up working on LGBTQ civil right litigation in San Fransisco. She ends by discussing her hopes for the future.

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Irish, Italian, White, Catholic, Public school, Athletics, Church, First relationship, Closeted, Gay, Matthey College (residential college), Cannon Dial Elm (eating club), Women's Softball Team, Women's Basketball Team, The Daily Princetonian, Coming Out, Every Voice conference, LGBT alumni, LGBT Center, Reproductive Justice, Lesbian, butch, Politics, Law, LGBT Activism, Having Children, Immigration, U.S. Supreme Court, Department of Justice (DOJ), Politician, Obama Administration, Trump Administration, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
Content Notice
Slur
Interviewed on 
September 8, 2017

Pankaj Amin

Amin discusses forming a large community at Princeton through his experiences with Outdoor Action, as a resident of Wilson College in The Zoo, and as an Electrical Engineering major. He also discusses his struggle to accept his sexual identity amidst the AIDs crisis and throughout his time at Princeton. Finally, he reflects on accepting his gay identity at Harvard Business School, finding a career in consulting, and coming out to his parents later in life.

Amin discusses forming a large community at Princeton through his experiences with Outdoor Action, as a resident of Wilson College in The Zoo, and as an Electrical Engineering major. He also discusses his struggle to accept his sexual identity amidst the AIDs crisis and throughout his time at Princeton. Finally, he reflects on accepting his gay identity at Harvard Business School, finding a career in consulting, and coming out to his parents later in life.

Class of 1995

Pankaj Amin

Amin discusses forming a large community at Princeton through his experiences with Outdoor Action, as a resident of Wilson College in The Zoo, and as an Electrical Engineering major. He also discusses his struggle to accept his sexual identity amidst the AIDs crisis and throughout his time at Princeton. Finally, he reflects on accepting his gay identity at Harvard Business School, finding a career in consulting, and coming out to his parents later in life.

Amin discusses forming a large community at Princeton through his experiences with Outdoor Action, as a resident of Wilson College in The Zoo, and as an Electrical Engineering major. He also discusses his struggle to accept his sexual identity amidst the AIDs crisis and throughout his time at Princeton. Finally, he reflects on accepting his gay identity at Harvard Business School, finding a career in consulting, and coming out to his parents later in life.

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Gay men, men, Second-generation immigrant, South Asian, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Wilson (residential college), Eating clubs, Terrace (eating club), Consulting, Closetted, Coming out, Spiritual, First relationship, Breakup, Outdoor Action, Generational understandings of identity, Nude Olympics, Questioning sexuality, Clubs/bars, Don't Ask Don't Tell, Clinton Administration, HIV/AIDS crisis,
Content Notice
Sexual violence mentioned, Transphobia mentioned, Homophobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
June 28, 2017

Peer Education

In the spring of 1992, Jennifer Kates worked with Susan Packer from the Counseling Center to create the Princeton Peer Education Program. This program was an institutional version of the small Peer Education program started in 1986 by Margaret Miller ‘87 and Shawn Cowls ’87. The first Peer Educator training session was held on April 2, 1992. Fifteen people attended the training. The session was designed to train the students for outreach in the residential colleges and Residential College Advisor groups as well as for one-on-one peer support. Training was expanded in the spring of 1993, and, as a result, Peer Educators reached out to eighty percent of RCA groups in the fall of 1994.

In the spring of 1992, Jennifer Kates worked with Susan Packer from the Counseling Center to create the Princeton Peer Education Program. This program was an institutional version of the small Peer Education program started in 1986 by Margaret Miller ‘87 and Shawn Cowls ’87. The first Peer Educator training session was held on April 2, 1992. Fifteen people attended the training. The session was designed to train the students for outreach in the residential colleges and Residential College Advisor groups as well as for one-on-one peer support. Training was expanded in the spring of 1993, and, as a result, Peer Educators reached out to eighty percent of RCA groups in the fall of 1994.

In the spring of 1992, Jennifer Kates worked with Susan Packer from the Counseling Center to create the Princeton Peer Education Program. This program was an institutional version of the small Peer Education program started in 1986 by Margaret Miller ‘87 and Shawn Cowls ’87. The first Peer Educator training session was held on April 2, 1992. Fifteen people attended the training. The session was designed to train the students for outreach in the residential colleges and Residential College Advisor groups as well as for one-on-one peer support. Training was expanded in the spring of 1993, and, as a result, Peer Educators reached out to eighty percent of RCA groups in the fall of 1994.

In the spring of 1992, Jennifer Kates worked with Susan Packer from the Counseling Center to create the Princeton Peer Education Program. This program was an institutional version of the small Peer Education program started in 1986 by Margaret Miller ‘87 and Shawn Cowls ’87. The first Peer Educator training session was held on April 2, 1992. Fifteen people attended the training. The session was designed to train the students for outreach in the residential colleges and Residential College Advisor groups as well as for one-on-one peer support. Training was expanded in the spring of 1993, and, as a result, Peer Educators reached out to eighty percent of RCA groups in the fall of 1994.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Brandon Ulrich

Brandon Ulrich describes finding and building the gay social scene at Princeton through meetings, dances, and eating clubs. He discusses the difficulties he faced being openly gay, both on- and off-campus. He also discusses his struggles with drug use and his work as a nurse.

Brandon Ulrich describes finding and building the gay social scene at Princeton through meetings, dances, and eating clubs. He discusses the difficulties he faced being openly gay, both on- and off-campus. He also discusses his struggles with drug use and his work as a nurse.

Class of 1996

Brandon Ulrich

Brandon Ulrich describes finding and building the gay social scene at Princeton through meetings, dances, and eating clubs. He discusses the difficulties he faced being openly gay, both on- and off-campus. He also discusses his struggles with drug use and his work as a nurse.

Brandon Ulrich describes finding and building the gay social scene at Princeton through meetings, dances, and eating clubs. He discusses the difficulties he faced being openly gay, both on- and off-campus. He also discusses his struggles with drug use and his work as a nurse.

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White, Siblings, Divorce, Queer Awakening, Athletics, public school, Catholic, Baptist, Evangelical, Boy Scouts, Attraction to friend, First relationship, Rockefeller College (residential college), The Monastery, Residential College Advisor (RCA), Forbes College (residential college), Gay, Murray Dodge, Terrace Club (eating club), Campus Club (eating club), Gap year, Log Cabin Republicans, Q97 (student group), Lesbian Gay Bisexual Alliance (LGBA) Princeton Band, Triangle Club, Sociology, Coming out, Family estrangement, Clubs/Bars, Closeted, Reunions, Administration, Consulting, Breakup, Nursing, Losing friends, Gay man, Internet Dating, Drugs
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Illness and death mentioned, Addiction mentioned, Eating disorder mentioned, Self-harm mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 13, 2018

Jason Rudy

Rudy speaks about his experience as an out, gay student at Princeton and marrying his ex-spouse in the first gay marriage within the University Chapel. He discusses coming out during his freshman year, his involvement with the Katzenjammers a capella group, coordinating his wedding, and the aftermath of his wedding. He also reflects his continued involvement with the Princeton community, the impact of the Princeton LGBT center, and adopting his son from Vietnam.

Rudy speaks about his experience as an out, gay student at Princeton and marrying his ex-spouse in the first gay marriage within the University Chapel. He discusses coming out during his freshman year, his involvement with the Katzenjammers a capella group, coordinating his wedding, and the aftermath of his wedding. He also reflects his continued involvement with the Princeton community, the impact of the Princeton LGBT center, and adopting his son from Vietnam.

Class of 1997

Jason Rudy

Rudy speaks about his experience as an out, gay student at Princeton and marrying his ex-spouse in the first gay marriage within the University Chapel. He discusses coming out during his freshman year, his involvement with the Katzenjammers a capella group, coordinating his wedding, and the aftermath of his wedding. He also reflects his continued involvement with the Princeton community, the impact of the Princeton LGBT center, and adopting his son from Vietnam.

Rudy speaks about his experience as an out, gay student at Princeton and marrying his ex-spouse in the first gay marriage within the University Chapel. He discusses coming out during his freshman year, his involvement with the Katzenjammers a capella group, coordinating his wedding, and the aftermath of his wedding. He also reflects his continued involvement with the Princeton community, the impact of the Princeton LGBT center, and adopting his son from Vietnam.

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Gay men, Men, White, Public school, Adoption, Harrassment, Music, Theater, Questioning sexuality, Closeted, Heteronormativity, English, Katzenjammers (a capella), GAP wine and cheese welcome, Coming out, Friend acceptance, Gays and Lesbians at Princeton (GALAP), HIV/AIDS crisis, Pride parade, Stonewall, Princeton University Chapel, Gay marriage in Princeton Chapel, Sue Anne Steffey Morrow, Princeton Alumni Weekly (PAW), The Daily Princetonian, Hillary Clinton, Gay marriage legalized, Rutgers, Graduate school, Parenting, Divorce, Reunions, LGBT Center, Generational understandings of identity, University of Maryland, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Suicide mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 22, 2019

First Princeton LGBTQ Employee Organization

The first Princeton LGBT employee organization for faculty and staff, PU TOP (Princeton University, The Other Persuasion) held its inaugural meeting on May 11, 1992. PU TOP would later change its name to P-QUE (Princeton Queer University Employees). P-QUE’s last recorded meeting was a social event held in April 1999. Michael Montgomery and Rex Hatfield (both Firestone Librarians) were instrumental in these groups.

The first Princeton LGBT employee organization for faculty and staff, PU TOP (Princeton University, The Other Persuasion) held its inaugural meeting on May 11, 1992. PU TOP would later change its name to P-QUE (Princeton Queer University Employees). P-QUE’s last recorded meeting was a social event held in April 1999. Michael Montgomery and Rex Hatfield (both Firestone Librarians) were instrumental in these groups.

First Princeton LGBTQ Employee Organization

The first Princeton LGBT employee organization for faculty and staff, PU TOP (Princeton University, The Other Persuasion) held its inaugural meeting on May 11, 1992. PU TOP would later change its name to P-QUE (Princeton Queer University Employees). P-QUE’s last recorded meeting was a social event held in April 1999. Michael Montgomery and Rex Hatfield (both Firestone Librarians) were instrumental in these groups.

The first Princeton LGBT employee organization for faculty and staff, PU TOP (Princeton University, The Other Persuasion) held its inaugural meeting on May 11, 1992. PU TOP would later change its name to P-QUE (Princeton Queer University Employees). P-QUE’s last recorded meeting was a social event held in April 1999. Michael Montgomery and Rex Hatfield (both Firestone Librarians) were instrumental in these groups.

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Interviewed on 

Stanley Shimamoto

Shimamoto talks about his time at Princeton as a closeted and later, out gay student. He discusses his feelings of depression, interning in Japan, and coming out to his family before his senior year. He also speaks about coming out to his friends, their mixed reactions, the general atmosphere of LGBT support on campus, and Princeton's social culture. Finally, he reflects on how he started to follow Buddhism, his career in the fashion industry, and his reaction to the Every Voice alumni conference.

Shimamoto talks about his time at Princeton as a closeted and later, out gay student. He discusses his feelings of depression, interning in Japan, and coming out to his family before his senior year. He also speaks about coming out to his friends, their mixed reactions, the general atmosphere of LGBT support on campus, and Princeton's social culture. Finally, he reflects on how he started to follow Buddhism, his career in the fashion industry, and his reaction to the Every Voice alumni conference.

Class of 1997

Stanley Shimamoto

Shimamoto talks about his time at Princeton as a closeted and later, out gay student. He discusses his feelings of depression, interning in Japan, and coming out to his family before his senior year. He also speaks about coming out to his friends, their mixed reactions, the general atmosphere of LGBT support on campus, and Princeton's social culture. Finally, he reflects on how he started to follow Buddhism, his career in the fashion industry, and his reaction to the Every Voice alumni conference.

Shimamoto talks about his time at Princeton as a closeted and later, out gay student. He discusses his feelings of depression, interning in Japan, and coming out to his family before his senior year. He also speaks about coming out to his friends, their mixed reactions, the general atmosphere of LGBT support on campus, and Princeton's social culture. Finally, he reflects on how he started to follow Buddhism, his career in the fashion industry, and his reaction to the Every Voice alumni conference.

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East Asian, Japanese, Japanese speaking, Second-generation immigrant, Siblings, Buddhist, Questioning gender, Athletics, Music, Activism, body image, Attraction to friend, Campus visit, Choosing Princeton, Outdoor Action, Matthey (residential college), Residential College Advisor (RCA), Independent Meal Plan, History, African American Studies, East Asian Studies, South Africa apartheid activism, Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS), Coming out, Japanese Language, Therapy, Family acceptance, Closeted, Losing a friend, Stereotypes, Peer Educators, Gay Jeans Day, LGBT activism, Every Voice Conference, Discrimination, Internet Dating, Travel abroad, Study Abroad, Consulting, Fashion, Clubs/bars, Moving to LGBTQ+ friendly city, Religion and queerness, Alumni Day
Content Notice
Depression mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Illness and death mentioned, War mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 7, 2017

Suman Chakraborty

Chakraborty speaks about publicly coming out as gay and navigating his open identity while attending Princeton. He discusses his student activism as a leader of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Alliance (LGBA), his work as the first out Minority Affairs Advisor (MAA), and as an RA. He talks about navigating his identity with his family and resistance to his actions received on campus from Princeton Students for Tolerance (CPST). Finally, he reflects on his involvement with the Every Voice conference, Fund for Reunion, Princeton BTGALA, and the National LGBT Task force.

Chakraborty speaks about publicly coming out as gay and navigating his open identity while attending Princeton. He discusses his student activism as a leader of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Alliance (LGBA), his work as the first out Minority Affairs Advisor (MAA), and as an RA. He talks about navigating his identity with his family and resistance to his actions received on campus from Princeton Students for Tolerance (CPST). Finally, he reflects on his involvement with the Every Voice conference, Fund for Reunion, Princeton BTGALA, and the National LGBT Task force.

Class of 1997

Suman Chakraborty

Chakraborty speaks about publicly coming out as gay and navigating his open identity while attending Princeton. He discusses his student activism as a leader of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Alliance (LGBA), his work as the first out Minority Affairs Advisor (MAA), and as an RA. He talks about navigating his identity with his family and resistance to his actions received on campus from Princeton Students for Tolerance (CPST). Finally, he reflects on his involvement with the Every Voice conference, Fund for Reunion, Princeton BTGALA, and the National LGBT Task force.

Chakraborty speaks about publicly coming out as gay and navigating his open identity while attending Princeton. He discusses his student activism as a leader of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Alliance (LGBA), his work as the first out Minority Affairs Advisor (MAA), and as an RA. He talks about navigating his identity with his family and resistance to his actions received on campus from Princeton Students for Tolerance (CPST). Finally, he reflects on his involvement with the Every Voice conference, Fund for Reunion, Princeton BTGALA, and the National LGBT Task force.

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South Asian, Indian, International student, Canadian, International Student Orientation, Public school, Closeted, Questioning sexuality, Clubs/bars, Libraries and queer awakening, HIV/AIDS crisis, Zee group, Lesbian Gay Bisexual Alliance (LGBA), Peer Educators, Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, Clinton Administration, Whig-Cliosophic Society, Coming out, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Generational understandings of identity, Pride parade, LGBT activism, Gay Jeans Day, Pride Week, Minority Affairs Advisor (MAA), Marianne Waterbury, Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students (ODUS), Rockefeller (residential college), The Princeton Tory, Coalition of Princeton Students for Tolerance (CPST), RA, Senior thesis, Every Voice conference, BTGALA, The Fund for Reunion (FFR), LGBT alumni, Creating Change Conference, Debbie Bazarsky, Lavender Graduation, Terrace dances, Terrace Drag Ball, Karen Krahulik, LGBT Center
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Illness and death mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 9, 2017

Domestic Partner Benefits

On January 15, 1994, Princeton University enacted full domestic partnership benefits for all employees after substantial campaigning by the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Concerns Task Force (the new name of the unrecognized Wartenburg Committee).

On January 15, 1994, Princeton University enacted full domestic partnership benefits for all employees after substantial campaigning by the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Concerns Task Force (the new name of the unrecognized Wartenburg Committee).

Domestic Partner Benefits

On January 15, 1994, Princeton University enacted full domestic partnership benefits for all employees after substantial campaigning by the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Concerns Task Force (the new name of the unrecognized Wartenburg Committee).

On January 15, 1994, Princeton University enacted full domestic partnership benefits for all employees after substantial campaigning by the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Concerns Task Force (the new name of the unrecognized Wartenburg Committee).

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Interviewed on 

Atu Darko

Darko reflects on his time at Princeton as a black, closeted gay student amidst a conservative social scene on campus. He describes his experience as one of few Black students at Princeton, his struggles with his sexuality, his time on the rugby team, and his experiences with the Ivy eating club. He speaks about leading the Princeton Shakespeare Company, his relationships with other queer people on campus and during internships, and his summers abroad in Greece during his junior and senior years. Finally, he discusses his career and his hopes for further involvement in Princeton's Fund for Reunion alumni group.

Darko reflects on his time at Princeton as a black, closeted gay student amidst a conservative social scene on campus. He describes his experience as one of few Black students at Princeton, his struggles with his sexuality, his time on the rugby team, and his experiences with the Ivy eating club. He speaks about leading the Princeton Shakespeare Company, his relationships with other queer people on campus and during internships, and his summers abroad in Greece during his junior and senior years. Finally, he discusses his career and his hopes for further involvement in Princeton's Fund for Reunion alumni group.

Class of 1999

Atu Darko

Darko reflects on his time at Princeton as a black, closeted gay student amidst a conservative social scene on campus. He describes his experience as one of few Black students at Princeton, his struggles with his sexuality, his time on the rugby team, and his experiences with the Ivy eating club. He speaks about leading the Princeton Shakespeare Company, his relationships with other queer people on campus and during internships, and his summers abroad in Greece during his junior and senior years. Finally, he discusses his career and his hopes for further involvement in Princeton's Fund for Reunion alumni group.

Darko reflects on his time at Princeton as a black, closeted gay student amidst a conservative social scene on campus. He describes his experience as one of few Black students at Princeton, his struggles with his sexuality, his time on the rugby team, and his experiences with the Ivy eating club. He speaks about leading the Princeton Shakespeare Company, his relationships with other queer people on campus and during internships, and his summers abroad in Greece during his junior and senior years. Finally, he discusses his career and his hopes for further involvement in Princeton's Fund for Reunion alumni group.

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Gay men, Men, Black, Second-generation immigrant, Pre-medical (educational track), Heteronormativity, Closeted, Classics, Linguistics, Hellenic Studies, Athletics, Ivy (eating club), Socioeconomic inequality, Princeton Shakespeare Company, Theater, LGBT Center, Cornell, Internet and queer awakening, 185 Nassau, Michael Cadden, Nick Salvato, Fulbright Scholar, D Bar, Wilson (residential college), Marriage, Third World Center, Sankofa African Fashion Show, 9/11, University of Athens, United Nations, Military, NATO, David Risley, Fund for Reunions, BTGALA, Reunions, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Racism mentioned, Illness and death mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 7, 2017

David Mejias

Mejias speaks about his time at Princeton as a lLatino, gay man. He discusses joining a hispanic fraternity during his freshman year, coming to terms with his identity while studying abroad in Madrid, and participating in the 1995 sit-in for Latino and Asian-American studies. He also talks about his perspective as a student on administrative support for LGBT students and how his perspective changed after he began working for Princeton's alumni relations. Finally, he explains why there were a small number of students of color who were out on campus, discusses traveling off-campus to date and participate in the gay community, and reflects on coming out to his family.

Mejias speaks about his time at Princeton as a lLatino, gay man. He discusses joining a hispanic fraternity during his freshman year, coming to terms with his identity while studying abroad in Madrid, and participating in the 1995 sit-in for Latino and Asian-American studies. He also talks about his perspective as a student on administrative support for LGBT students and how his perspective changed after he began working for Princeton's alumni relations. Finally, he explains why there were a small number of students of color who were out on campus, discusses traveling off-campus to date and participate in the gay community, and reflects on coming out to his family.

Class of 1998

David Mejias

Mejias speaks about his time at Princeton as a lLatino, gay man. He discusses joining a hispanic fraternity during his freshman year, coming to terms with his identity while studying abroad in Madrid, and participating in the 1995 sit-in for Latino and Asian-American studies. He also talks about his perspective as a student on administrative support for LGBT students and how his perspective changed after he began working for Princeton's alumni relations. Finally, he explains why there were a small number of students of color who were out on campus, discusses traveling off-campus to date and participate in the gay community, and reflects on coming out to his family.

Mejias speaks about his time at Princeton as a lLatino, gay man. He discusses joining a hispanic fraternity during his freshman year, coming to terms with his identity while studying abroad in Madrid, and participating in the 1995 sit-in for Latino and Asian-American studies. He also talks about his perspective as a student on administrative support for LGBT students and how his perspective changed after he began working for Princeton's alumni relations. Finally, he explains why there were a small number of students of color who were out on campus, discusses traveling off-campus to date and participate in the gay community, and reflects on coming out to his family.

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Gay men, Men, Latine/a/o/x or Hispanic, Second-generation immigrant, Socioeconomic inequality, Religious school, Religion and queerness, Seventh-day Adventist, Spanish-speaking, Public school, Upward Bound, Immigration, Campus visit, Manna Christian Fellowship, Greek life, Sexual awakening, First relationship, Athletics, Heteronormativity, Internet and queer awakening, Libraries and queer awakening, Gap year, Study abroad, Clubs/bars, Hookups, Coming out, Family acceptance, Family estrangement, Terrace (eating club), 185 Nassau, Terrace Dances, Ethnic studies sit-in, Activism, Latine/a/o/x activism, Woodrow Wilson school, Photography, Gay Jeans Day, Awareness Week, Princeton Alumni Corps, Office of Undergraduate Affairs, Every Voice conference, THRIVE conference, Stereotypes, Harrassment, Reunions, Association of Latino Princeton Alumni (ALPA), Undergraduate, Staff
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Racism mentioned, Slur
Interviewed on 
July 15, 2017
Office of the Dean of the Chapel Records (AC144)

Gay Marriage at the Chapel

On April 26, 1997, Jason Rudy '97 and Michael Beer *95 were married in the first same-sex ceremony in the history of the Princeton University Chapel, officiated by Reverend Sue Ann Steffey Morrow, Associate Dean of Religious Life and of the Chapel. It was not legal, as gay marriage was not yet permitted in the US, but the ceremony was attended by approximately 100 family and friends and recorded in the Chapel book; the headings “bride” and “groom” on the form were covered with white-out.

The wedding was covered in the news and drew a mixture of celebration and criticism, with one alumnus writing an angry letter to President Harold Shapiro at the idea that a gay marriage was recorded in the same book that his wedding had been recorded. The university maintained that Rudy and Beer had the same right to university spaces that other couples did under the non-discrimination policy; however, it ceded to some demands, removing their record from the book and creating a second, separate book for unofficial ceremonies. This remained in place until gay marriage was legalized.

On April 26, 1997, Jason Rudy '97 and Michael Beer *95 were married in the first same-sex ceremony in the history of the Princeton University Chapel, officiated by Reverend Sue Ann Steffey Morrow, Associate Dean of Religious Life and of the Chapel. It was not legal, as gay marriage was not yet permitted in the US, but the ceremony was attended by approximately 100 family and friends and recorded in the Chapel book; the headings “bride” and “groom” on the form were covered with white-out.

The wedding was covered in the news and drew a mixture of celebration and criticism, with one alumnus writing an angry letter to President Harold Shapiro at the idea that a gay marriage was recorded in the same book that his wedding had been recorded. The university maintained that Rudy and Beer had the same right to university spaces that other couples did under the non-discrimination policy; however, it ceded to some demands, removing their record from the book and creating a second, separate book for unofficial ceremonies. This remained in place until gay marriage was legalized.

Gay Marriage at the Chapel

On April 26, 1997, Jason Rudy '97 and Michael Beer *95 were married in the first same-sex ceremony in the history of the Princeton University Chapel, officiated by Reverend Sue Ann Steffey Morrow, Associate Dean of Religious Life and of the Chapel. It was not legal, as gay marriage was not yet permitted in the US, but the ceremony was attended by approximately 100 family and friends and recorded in the Chapel book; the headings “bride” and “groom” on the form were covered with white-out.

The wedding was covered in the news and drew a mixture of celebration and criticism, with one alumnus writing an angry letter to President Harold Shapiro at the idea that a gay marriage was recorded in the same book that his wedding had been recorded. The university maintained that Rudy and Beer had the same right to university spaces that other couples did under the non-discrimination policy; however, it ceded to some demands, removing their record from the book and creating a second, separate book for unofficial ceremonies. This remained in place until gay marriage was legalized.

On April 26, 1997, Jason Rudy '97 and Michael Beer *95 were married in the first same-sex ceremony in the history of the Princeton University Chapel, officiated by Reverend Sue Ann Steffey Morrow, Associate Dean of Religious Life and of the Chapel. It was not legal, as gay marriage was not yet permitted in the US, but the ceremony was attended by approximately 100 family and friends and recorded in the Chapel book; the headings “bride” and “groom” on the form were covered with white-out.

The wedding was covered in the news and drew a mixture of celebration and criticism, with one alumnus writing an angry letter to President Harold Shapiro at the idea that a gay marriage was recorded in the same book that his wedding had been recorded. The university maintained that Rudy and Beer had the same right to university spaces that other couples did under the non-discrimination policy; however, it ceded to some demands, removing their record from the book and creating a second, separate book for unofficial ceremonies. This remained in place until gay marriage was legalized.

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Interviewed on 

Bronwen Houck

Houck discusses her time at Princeton as a female, bisexual student. She speaks about her involvement with various student theater productions through Theatre Intime and Triangle Club, her experience studying abroad in Spain, and her time as a member of Quad Eating Club. She also discusses dating another queer student, joining the LGBT a capella group Fire Hazards, and her reaction to the passing of Matthew Shepard. Finally, she speaks about joining a friend group termed the "Lesbian Posse," her experiences as a bisexual woman in a straight relationship, and her career as a photographer and advertising contractor.

Houck discusses her time at Princeton as a female, bisexual student. She speaks about her involvement with various student theater productions through Theatre Intime and Triangle Club, her experience studying abroad in Spain, and her time as a member of Quad Eating Club. She also discusses dating another queer student, joining the LGBT a capella group Fire Hazards, and her reaction to the passing of Matthew Shepard. Finally, she speaks about joining a friend group termed the "Lesbian Posse," her experiences as a bisexual woman in a straight relationship, and her career as a photographer and advertising contractor.

Class of 1999

Bronwen Houck

Houck discusses her time at Princeton as a female, bisexual student. She speaks about her involvement with various student theater productions through Theatre Intime and Triangle Club, her experience studying abroad in Spain, and her time as a member of Quad Eating Club. She also discusses dating another queer student, joining the LGBT a capella group Fire Hazards, and her reaction to the passing of Matthew Shepard. Finally, she speaks about joining a friend group termed the "Lesbian Posse," her experiences as a bisexual woman in a straight relationship, and her career as a photographer and advertising contractor.

Houck discusses her time at Princeton as a female, bisexual student. She speaks about her involvement with various student theater productions through Theatre Intime and Triangle Club, her experience studying abroad in Spain, and her time as a member of Quad Eating Club. She also discusses dating another queer student, joining the LGBT a capella group Fire Hazards, and her reaction to the passing of Matthew Shepard. Finally, she speaks about joining a friend group termed the "Lesbian Posse," her experiences as a bisexual woman in a straight relationship, and her career as a photographer and advertising contractor.

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White, Bisexual women, Ally, Theater, Chancellor Green, Community Action, Art History, Theater Intime, Triangle Club, Dance, Queer awakening, Attraction to friend, LGBT activism, Peer Educators, Study abroad, Coming out, Friend acceptance, Gay Jeans Day, Family acceptance, Sexual Harassment/Assault Advising Resources and Education (SHARE), Fire Hazards, Matthew Shepard, Eating clubs, Terrace (eating club), Quadrangle (eating club), Senior thesis, Photography, Travel abroad, Meeting partner, Marriage Equality Movement
Content Notice
Sexual violence mentioned, Biphobia mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Violence mentioned, Student death mentioned, Sexism mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 15, 2018

First Ally Training

In 1998, the newly established Ally Project held its first training seminar during Awareness Week on October 8. The purpose of the seminar was to educate sympathetic faculty and staff about LGBT issues. Participants were given triangular yellow ally signs to hang on office doors, so LGBT students could reach out to them for support. In the same year, LGBA sponsored the second annual Ivy Conference.

In 1998, the newly established Ally Project held its first training seminar during Awareness Week on October 8. The purpose of the seminar was to educate sympathetic faculty and staff about LGBT issues. Participants were given triangular yellow ally signs to hang on office doors, so LGBT students could reach out to them for support. In the same year, LGBA sponsored the second annual Ivy Conference.

First Ally Training

In 1998, the newly established Ally Project held its first training seminar during Awareness Week on October 8. The purpose of the seminar was to educate sympathetic faculty and staff about LGBT issues. Participants were given triangular yellow ally signs to hang on office doors, so LGBT students could reach out to them for support. In the same year, LGBA sponsored the second annual Ivy Conference.

In 1998, the newly established Ally Project held its first training seminar during Awareness Week on October 8. The purpose of the seminar was to educate sympathetic faculty and staff about LGBT issues. Participants were given triangular yellow ally signs to hang on office doors, so LGBT students could reach out to them for support. In the same year, LGBA sponsored the second annual Ivy Conference.

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Davida Wood

Davida Wood talks about growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, and coming to Princeton as a graduate student. Davida discusses what social and political contexts influenced their worldview as a young person and shares insights into gay activism at Princeton during the 1990s. Davida discusses their career trajectory which led them to the World Resources Institute and ends with sharing insights into how they perceive gay dating culture has shifted due to the digital world.

Davida Wood talks about growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, and coming to Princeton as a graduate student. Davida discusses what social and political contexts influenced their worldview as a young person and shares insights into gay activism at Princeton during the 1990s. Davida discusses their career trajectory which led them to the World Resources Institute and ends with sharing insights into how they perceive gay dating culture has shifted due to the digital world.

Class of 1994

Davida Wood

Davida Wood talks about growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, and coming to Princeton as a graduate student. Davida discusses what social and political contexts influenced their worldview as a young person and shares insights into gay activism at Princeton during the 1990s. Davida discusses their career trajectory which led them to the World Resources Institute and ends with sharing insights into how they perceive gay dating culture has shifted due to the digital world.

Davida Wood talks about growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, and coming to Princeton as a graduate student. Davida discusses what social and political contexts influenced their worldview as a young person and shares insights into gay activism at Princeton during the 1990s. Davida discusses their career trajectory which led them to the World Resources Institute and ends with sharing insights into how they perceive gay dating culture has shifted due to the digital world.

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South Africa apartheid activism, Palestine apartheid activism, Jewish (religion), Jewish (ethnicity), Discrimination, Graduate student, Anthropology, First-generation immigrant, Gay person, Lesbian, Sue Anne Steffey Morrow, Gay Jeans Day, The Daily Princetonian, The Princeton Sentenal, A Lesbian Was Here, Activism, LGBT activism, AIDS activism, AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP), Princeton's Eagerly Awaited Radical Lesbians (PEARL), climate activism, Gay Rights Movement, Civil Rights Movement, Marriage, Internet Dating, HIV/AIDS crisis
Content Notice
Interviewed on 
August 19, 2019

Jennifer Price

Price discusses her time at Princeton as a lesbian student-athlete. She speaks about the homophobic environment she faced on the field hockey team, openly dating other women, and how she dealt with negative reactions from her friends to her sexuality. She also talks about working in educational mentorship programs, organizing events with the Women's Center, attending Pride Marches, and going to lesbian bars with the group Ladies of the '80s. Finally, she discusses family reactions to her sexuality, having children with her wife, her career in education, and her experience at the Every Voice alumni conference.

Price discusses her time at Princeton as a lesbian student-athlete. She speaks about the homophobic environment she faced on the field hockey team, openly dating other women, and how she dealt with negative reactions from her friends to her sexuality. She also talks about working in educational mentorship programs, organizing events with the Women's Center, attending Pride Marches, and going to lesbian bars with the group Ladies of the '80s. Finally, she discusses family reactions to her sexuality, having children with her wife, her career in education, and her experience at the Every Voice alumni conference.

Class of 1999

Jennifer Price

Price discusses her time at Princeton as a lesbian student-athlete. She speaks about the homophobic environment she faced on the field hockey team, openly dating other women, and how she dealt with negative reactions from her friends to her sexuality. She also talks about working in educational mentorship programs, organizing events with the Women's Center, attending Pride Marches, and going to lesbian bars with the group Ladies of the '80s. Finally, she discusses family reactions to her sexuality, having children with her wife, her career in education, and her experience at the Every Voice alumni conference.

Price discusses her time at Princeton as a lesbian student-athlete. She speaks about the homophobic environment she faced on the field hockey team, openly dating other women, and how she dealt with negative reactions from her friends to her sexuality. She also talks about working in educational mentorship programs, organizing events with the Women's Center, attending Pride Marches, and going to lesbian bars with the group Ladies of the '80s. Finally, she discusses family reactions to her sexuality, having children with her wife, her career in education, and her experience at the Every Voice alumni conference.

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Lesbians, Women, White, Travel abroad, Immigration, Private school, Public school, Christian, Religion and queerness, Athletics, First awareness of queer people, Terrace (eating club), First relationship, Woodrow Wilson School, Harrassment, Coming out, Friend estrangement, Bicker, Cannon Dial Elm (eating club), Family estrangement, Women's Center, Pride parade, HIV/AIDS crisis, Clubs/bars, Teaching, Meeting partner, Marriage, Every Voice conference, Having children, Parenting, Harold Shapiro, Harvard, Socioeconomic inequality, Employment discrimination, Sperm donor, 9/11, Civil partnership, Gay marriage legalized, Gender affirming care, Reunions, Shirley Tilghman, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Sexism mentioned, Violence mentioned, Illness and death mentioned, Transphobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 5, 2019

Jeff Chu

Chu discusses his close relationship with his family throughout his upbringing and how those relationships influenced his decision to attend Princeton. He speaks on attending Princeton as a closeted student and joining the Princeton Evangelical Fellowship. In addition, he reflects on his semester abroad in Belgium his sophomore year, his frustrations with administrative leadership, and finding fulfillment through classes in his upperclassmen years. Finally, he explains Princeton's influence on his life and hopes he holds for future students who enter the university.

Chu discusses his close relationship with his family throughout his upbringing and how those relationships influenced his decision to attend Princeton. He speaks on attending Princeton as a closeted student and joining the Princeton Evangelical Fellowship. In addition, he reflects on his semester abroad in Belgium his sophomore year, his frustrations with administrative leadership, and finding fulfillment through classes in his upperclassmen years. Finally, he explains Princeton's influence on his life and hopes he holds for future students who enter the university.

Class of 1999

Jeff Chu

Chu discusses his close relationship with his family throughout his upbringing and how those relationships influenced his decision to attend Princeton. He speaks on attending Princeton as a closeted student and joining the Princeton Evangelical Fellowship. In addition, he reflects on his semester abroad in Belgium his sophomore year, his frustrations with administrative leadership, and finding fulfillment through classes in his upperclassmen years. Finally, he explains Princeton's influence on his life and hopes he holds for future students who enter the university.

Chu discusses his close relationship with his family throughout his upbringing and how those relationships influenced his decision to attend Princeton. He speaks on attending Princeton as a closeted student and joining the Princeton Evangelical Fellowship. In addition, he reflects on his semester abroad in Belgium his sophomore year, his frustrations with administrative leadership, and finding fulfillment through classes in his upperclassmen years. Finally, he explains Princeton's influence on his life and hopes he holds for future students who enter the university.

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Chinese, Chinese speaking, Baptist, Christian, Second-generation immigrant, Private school, Questioning sexuality, forced outing, Woodrow Wilson School, Politics, Closeted, Princeton Evangelical Fellowship, Study abroad, Queer awakening, Office of Religious Life (ORL), St. A’s, Forbes (residential college), eating clubs, Socioeconomic inequality, Religion and queerness, Journalism
Content Notice
Racism mentioned, Homophobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
June 30, 2017

Fire Hazards

On May 7, 1999, the Fire Hazards, a lesbian, gay, and bisexual a cappella group, made their debut performance under Blair Arch to an audience of 100 students. They would go on to become a popular campus group, producing a variety show, “Masquerade Ball.”

On May 7, 1999, the Fire Hazards, a lesbian, gay, and bisexual a cappella group, made their debut performance under Blair Arch to an audience of 100 students. They would go on to become a popular campus group, producing a variety show, “Masquerade Ball.”

On May 7, 1999, the Fire Hazards, a lesbian, gay, and bisexual a cappella group, made their debut performance under Blair Arch to an audience of 100 students. They would go on to become a popular campus group, producing a variety show, “Masquerade Ball.”

On May 7, 1999, the Fire Hazards, a lesbian, gay, and bisexual a cappella group, made their debut performance under Blair Arch to an audience of 100 students. They would go on to become a popular campus group, producing a variety show, “Masquerade Ball.”

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Interviewed on 

More Name Changes

In September of 1999, the Program in Women’s Studies changed its name to the Program in the Study of Women and Gender, in order to reflect scholarship conducted around sexual orientation. LGBA also changed its name to the Pride Alliance in order to foster a more inclusive atmosphere for transgender and straight ally members, a decision based on the results of the Task Force’s campus climate survey. In 2024, the Pride Alliance continues under this name.

In September of 1999, the Program in Women’s Studies changed its name to the Program in the Study of Women and Gender, in order to reflect scholarship conducted around sexual orientation. LGBA also changed its name to the Pride Alliance in order to foster a more inclusive atmosphere for transgender and straight ally members, a decision based on the results of the Task Force’s campus climate survey. In 2024, the Pride Alliance continues under this name.

More Name Changes

In September of 1999, the Program in Women’s Studies changed its name to the Program in the Study of Women and Gender, in order to reflect scholarship conducted around sexual orientation. LGBA also changed its name to the Pride Alliance in order to foster a more inclusive atmosphere for transgender and straight ally members, a decision based on the results of the Task Force’s campus climate survey. In 2024, the Pride Alliance continues under this name.

In September of 1999, the Program in Women’s Studies changed its name to the Program in the Study of Women and Gender, in order to reflect scholarship conducted around sexual orientation. LGBA also changed its name to the Pride Alliance in order to foster a more inclusive atmosphere for transgender and straight ally members, a decision based on the results of the Task Force’s campus climate survey. In 2024, the Pride Alliance continues under this name.

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Interviewed on 

Andrea Razi-Thomas

Razi-Thomas speaks about attending Princeton as a lesbian, gender-queer student-athlete. She discusses her recruitment to Princeton, her gender presentation, and coming out during her freshman year. She also discusses her position as the only out athlete on campus, homophobia she encountered as a member of the women's basketball team, and her counseling career. Finally, she discusses her role as her town's Human Rights Commissioner and how she formed her family.

Razi-Thomas speaks about attending Princeton as a lesbian, gender-queer student-athlete. She discusses her recruitment to Princeton, her gender presentation, and coming out during her freshman year. She also discusses her position as the only out athlete on campus, homophobia she encountered as a member of the women's basketball team, and her counseling career. Finally, she discusses her role as her town's Human Rights Commissioner and how she formed her family.

Class of 1996

Andrea Razi-Thomas

Razi-Thomas speaks about attending Princeton as a lesbian, gender-queer student-athlete. She discusses her recruitment to Princeton, her gender presentation, and coming out during her freshman year. She also discusses her position as the only out athlete on campus, homophobia she encountered as a member of the women's basketball team, and her counseling career. Finally, she discusses her role as her town's Human Rights Commissioner and how she formed her family.

Razi-Thomas speaks about attending Princeton as a lesbian, gender-queer student-athlete. She discusses her recruitment to Princeton, her gender presentation, and coming out during her freshman year. She also discusses her position as the only out athlete on campus, homophobia she encountered as a member of the women's basketball team, and her counseling career. Finally, she discusses her role as her town's Human Rights Commissioner and how she formed her family.

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Lesbians, Queer, Genderqueer, White, Athletics, Tomboy, Mental health, Campus visit, First awareness of queer people, Questioning sexuality, Questioning gender, Coming out, First relationship, Office of Religious Life (ORL), Sue Anne Steffey Morrow, Friend estrangement, Family acceptance, Family estrangement, Economics, Gender Studies, Smith College, Parenting, Having children, Marriage, Meeting partner, Reunions, Joan Kowalik, Harrassment, Heteronormativity, Human Rights Commission, Pride parade, Judy Jarvis, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Suicide mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Addiction mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 18, 2018
Princeton LGBTQIA+ Oral History Project

2000s

20 Interviews
10 Archive Entries
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PRINCETON LGBTQIA+ ORAL HISTORY PROJECT • PRINCETON LGBTQIA+ ORAL HISTORY PROJECT •
PRINCETON LGBTQIA+ ORAL HISTORY PROJECT • PRINCETON LGBTQIA+ ORAL HISTORY PROJECT •