Princeton LGBTQIA+ Oral History Project

2000s

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

Ara Tucker

Ara Tucker describes her engagement with the queer community during her time at Princeton, including organizing a queer film festival and finding support through the office of religious life. Tucker describes the important role religion has had in her life, from providing queer-affirming community at Princeton to her getting married in the Princeton university chapel. Tucker also describes her work as a Black queer artist.

Ara Tucker describes her engagement with the queer community during her time at Princeton, including organizing a queer film festival and finding support through the office of religious life. Tucker describes the important role religion has had in her life, from providing queer-affirming community at Princeton to her getting married in the Princeton university chapel. Tucker also describes her work as a Black queer artist.

Class of 2001

Ara Tucker

Ara Tucker describes her engagement with the queer community during her time at Princeton, including organizing a queer film festival and finding support through the office of religious life. Tucker describes the important role religion has had in her life, from providing queer-affirming community at Princeton to her getting married in the Princeton university chapel. Tucker also describes her work as a Black queer artist.

Ara Tucker describes her engagement with the queer community during her time at Princeton, including organizing a queer film festival and finding support through the office of religious life. Tucker describes the important role religion has had in her life, from providing queer-affirming community at Princeton to her getting married in the Princeton university chapel. Tucker also describes her work as a Black queer artist.

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Black, private school, Athletics, Closeted, Questioning Sexuality, Lesbian, First relationship, Coming out, Marriage, Family acceptance, Edmund White, Sue Anne Steffey Morrow, Christian, Queerness and Religion, Princeton Chapel, Gay, Pride Alliance, Film festival, Wilson College (residential college), Attraction to friend, Debbie Bazarsky, LGBT Center, Law, Terrace Club (eating club), Women's Rugby Team, Quadrangle Club (eating club), Feminism, Women's Center, WPRB, sibling, Princeton Preview, Firestone Library, Administration, Academia, Christopher Eisgruber, Mark Burstein, Cloister (eating cub), Colonial Club (eating club), U.S. Supreme Court, Marriage Equality Movement, Prospect House, Reunions
Content Notice
Interviewed on 
July 21, 2017

Nick Salvato

Salvato speaks about his time at Princeton as an out student. He discusses LGBT media representation during his childhood, his decision to come out in college, curating a queer film festival during his sophomore year, and writing for the Nassau Weekly. He also reflects on homophobia on campus, a vigil honoring Matthew Shepard, and attending queer dances at Terrace. Finally, he speaks about taking the university's first course on queer theory, mentorship from professors, and how he came to be an English professor at Columbia.

Salvato speaks about his time at Princeton as an out student. He discusses LGBT media representation during his childhood, his decision to come out in college, curating a queer film festival during his sophomore year, and writing for the Nassau Weekly. He also reflects on homophobia on campus, a vigil honoring Matthew Shepard, and attending queer dances at Terrace. Finally, he speaks about taking the university's first course on queer theory, mentorship from professors, and how he came to be an English professor at Columbia.

Class of 2000

Nick Salvato

Salvato speaks about his time at Princeton as an out student. He discusses LGBT media representation during his childhood, his decision to come out in college, curating a queer film festival during his sophomore year, and writing for the Nassau Weekly. He also reflects on homophobia on campus, a vigil honoring Matthew Shepard, and attending queer dances at Terrace. Finally, he speaks about taking the university's first course on queer theory, mentorship from professors, and how he came to be an English professor at Columbia.

Salvato speaks about his time at Princeton as an out student. He discusses LGBT media representation during his childhood, his decision to come out in college, curating a queer film festival during his sophomore year, and writing for the Nassau Weekly. He also reflects on homophobia on campus, a vigil honoring Matthew Shepard, and attending queer dances at Terrace. Finally, he speaks about taking the university's first course on queer theory, mentorship from professors, and how he came to be an English professor at Columbia.

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Gay men, Men, Questioning sexuality, Coming out, Family estrangement, Friend acceptance, Public school, English, Creative Writing, Campus visit, Lesbian Gay Bisexual Alliance (LGBA), Peer Educators, Film festival, LGBT activism, Nassau Weekly, Pride Alliance, Diana Fuss, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Office of Religious Life (ORL), Sue Anne Steffey Morrow, Matt Carcella, Harrassment, Eating clubs, Matthew Shepard, Terrace (eating club), Campus (eating club), Drugs, Hookups, First relationship, Paul Kelleher, Cornell, Obama Administration, Craig Dworkin, Senior thesis, Jeff Nunokawa, Doug Mau, Michael Cadden, Thomas Roach, Take Back the Night, Yale, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Transphobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 6, 2018

Queer Graduate Group

The Queer Graduate Caucus was established in Spring 2001. The Caucus sponsored the 1st Annual Queer Policy Series, the first of many events that year.

The Queer Graduate Caucus was established in Spring 2001. The Caucus sponsored the 1st Annual Queer Policy Series, the first of many events that year.

Queer Graduate Group

The Queer Graduate Caucus was established in Spring 2001. The Caucus sponsored the 1st Annual Queer Policy Series, the first of many events that year.

The Queer Graduate Caucus was established in Spring 2001. The Caucus sponsored the 1st Annual Queer Policy Series, the first of many events that year.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Olivia Ford

Ford talks about her life and experiences as a Black, queer student at Princeton. She discusses her upbringing in Brooklyn, New York and how her time at a predominantly white school shaped her racial identity. She also reflects on how she came to attend Princeton, the differing queer social dynamics between the LGBT Center and Terrace Eating club communities, and her time as an RCA and peer educator. Finally, she talks about how Black activism influences work as a freelance writer.

Ford talks about her life and experiences as a Black, queer student at Princeton. She discusses her upbringing in Brooklyn, New York and how her time at a predominantly white school shaped her racial identity. She also reflects on how she came to attend Princeton, the differing queer social dynamics between the LGBT Center and Terrace Eating club communities, and her time as an RCA and peer educator. Finally, she talks about how Black activism influences work as a freelance writer.

Class of 2001

Olivia Ford

Ford talks about her life and experiences as a Black, queer student at Princeton. She discusses her upbringing in Brooklyn, New York and how her time at a predominantly white school shaped her racial identity. She also reflects on how she came to attend Princeton, the differing queer social dynamics between the LGBT Center and Terrace Eating club communities, and her time as an RCA and peer educator. Finally, she talks about how Black activism influences work as a freelance writer.

Ford talks about her life and experiences as a Black, queer student at Princeton. She discusses her upbringing in Brooklyn, New York and how her time at a predominantly white school shaped her racial identity. She also reflects on how she came to attend Princeton, the differing queer social dynamics between the LGBT Center and Terrace Eating club communities, and her time as an RCA and peer educator. Finally, she talks about how Black activism influences work as a freelance writer.

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Women loving women, Queer, Women, Black, White, Biracial, Private school, Socioeconomic inequality, Heteronormativity, Closeted, Coming out, Friend acceptance, Marriage, Theater, Reunions, Campus visit, Peer Educators, Residential College Advisor (RCA), LGBT Center, Attraction to friend, Terrace (eating club), Terrace Dances, Rockefeller (residential college), Sociology, HIV/AIDS crisis, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Racism mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Illness and death mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 24, 2017

Rakesh Satyal

Satyal speaks about his time at Princeton as a gay student. He talks about applying to Princeton, joining Triangle Club, and becoming a member of the a capella group the Nassoons. He discusses relationships with other men on campus, influential professors in the Creative Writing department, and internships. Finally, he reflects on his writing career after Princeton and participating in alumni organizing for Every Voice and the LGBT GALA group.

Satyal speaks about his time at Princeton as a gay student. He talks about applying to Princeton, joining Triangle Club, and becoming a member of the a capella group the Nassoons. He discusses relationships with other men on campus, influential professors in the Creative Writing department, and internships. Finally, he reflects on his writing career after Princeton and participating in alumni organizing for Every Voice and the LGBT GALA group.

Class of 2002

Rakesh Satyal

Satyal speaks about his time at Princeton as a gay student. He talks about applying to Princeton, joining Triangle Club, and becoming a member of the a capella group the Nassoons. He discusses relationships with other men on campus, influential professors in the Creative Writing department, and internships. Finally, he reflects on his writing career after Princeton and participating in alumni organizing for Every Voice and the LGBT GALA group.

Satyal speaks about his time at Princeton as a gay student. He talks about applying to Princeton, joining Triangle Club, and becoming a member of the a capella group the Nassoons. He discusses relationships with other men on campus, influential professors in the Creative Writing department, and internships. Finally, he reflects on his writing career after Princeton and participating in alumni organizing for Every Voice and the LGBT GALA group.

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Gay man, Queer, Indian, Person of Color (POC), Cincinnati Riots, Black activism, Siblings, Closeted, Music Performance, Second-generation immigrant, Choosing Princeton, Campus Visit, Financial Aid, Questioning sexuality, Wilson (residential college), Triangle Club, Theater, Dean's Date, Attraction to friend, The Nassoons, Coming Out, First relationship, Interracial relationship, Fire Hazards, Princeton in France, Family acceptance, Hookups, Comparative Literature, Libraries and queer awakening, Senior thesis, Mentorship, Reunions, LGBT alumni, Every Voice Conference, Marriage
Content Notice
Racism mentioned, Slur, Homophobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 11, 2017

President Tilghman

On May 5, 2001, Shirley Tilghman succeeded Harold Shapiro to become the University’s 19th President and the first (and only) female president. During her presidency from 2001-2013, Tilghman would be a strong ally to LGBT students and avid supporter of LGBT life on campus.

During her 2003 Commencement speech, Tilghman spoke of courage, and one of the examples she gave was the courage of coming out of the closet. Brief as it was, members of the Princeton LGBT community accepted the simple remark as an acknowledgement of their presence, which had been long fought for and rarely received in the past; Tilghman was inundated with emails of thanks from faculty, staff, and alumni. She continued to be a vocal supporter of LGBT students, staff, faculty, and alumni throughout her administration.

On May 5, 2001, Shirley Tilghman succeeded Harold Shapiro to become the University’s 19th President and the first (and only) female president. During her presidency from 2001-2013, Tilghman would be a strong ally to LGBT students and avid supporter of LGBT life on campus.

During her 2003 Commencement speech, Tilghman spoke of courage, and one of the examples she gave was the courage of coming out of the closet. Brief as it was, members of the Princeton LGBT community accepted the simple remark as an acknowledgement of their presence, which had been long fought for and rarely received in the past; Tilghman was inundated with emails of thanks from faculty, staff, and alumni. She continued to be a vocal supporter of LGBT students, staff, faculty, and alumni throughout her administration.

President Tilghman

On May 5, 2001, Shirley Tilghman succeeded Harold Shapiro to become the University’s 19th President and the first (and only) female president. During her presidency from 2001-2013, Tilghman would be a strong ally to LGBT students and avid supporter of LGBT life on campus.

During her 2003 Commencement speech, Tilghman spoke of courage, and one of the examples she gave was the courage of coming out of the closet. Brief as it was, members of the Princeton LGBT community accepted the simple remark as an acknowledgement of their presence, which had been long fought for and rarely received in the past; Tilghman was inundated with emails of thanks from faculty, staff, and alumni. She continued to be a vocal supporter of LGBT students, staff, faculty, and alumni throughout her administration.

On May 5, 2001, Shirley Tilghman succeeded Harold Shapiro to become the University’s 19th President and the first (and only) female president. During her presidency from 2001-2013, Tilghman would be a strong ally to LGBT students and avid supporter of LGBT life on campus.

During her 2003 Commencement speech, Tilghman spoke of courage, and one of the examples she gave was the courage of coming out of the closet. Brief as it was, members of the Princeton LGBT community accepted the simple remark as an acknowledgement of their presence, which had been long fought for and rarely received in the past; Tilghman was inundated with emails of thanks from faculty, staff, and alumni. She continued to be a vocal supporter of LGBT students, staff, faculty, and alumni throughout her administration.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Jason Houck

Houck speaks about attending Princeton as a closeted gay student as he came to terms with his sexuality. He discusses why he attended Princeton, his membership on the club cycling team, his time as a member of Charter Eating Club, and exploring his interest in visual arts through a summer-long grant program. He also talks about coming out during his senior year, his relationship to Gay Jeans Day, and his time in Thailand after college. Finally, he reflects on his current career, community in San Francisco, and long-term relationship with his partner.

Houck speaks about attending Princeton as a closeted gay student as he came to terms with his sexuality. He discusses why he attended Princeton, his membership on the club cycling team, his time as a member of Charter Eating Club, and exploring his interest in visual arts through a summer-long grant program. He also talks about coming out during his senior year, his relationship to Gay Jeans Day, and his time in Thailand after college. Finally, he reflects on his current career, community in San Francisco, and long-term relationship with his partner.

Class of 2003

Jason Houck

Houck speaks about attending Princeton as a closeted gay student as he came to terms with his sexuality. He discusses why he attended Princeton, his membership on the club cycling team, his time as a member of Charter Eating Club, and exploring his interest in visual arts through a summer-long grant program. He also talks about coming out during his senior year, his relationship to Gay Jeans Day, and his time in Thailand after college. Finally, he reflects on his current career, community in San Francisco, and long-term relationship with his partner.

Houck speaks about attending Princeton as a closeted gay student as he came to terms with his sexuality. He discusses why he attended Princeton, his membership on the club cycling team, his time as a member of Charter Eating Club, and exploring his interest in visual arts through a summer-long grant program. He also talks about coming out during his senior year, his relationship to Gay Jeans Day, and his time in Thailand after college. Finally, he reflects on his current career, community in San Francisco, and long-term relationship with his partner.

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Gay men, Men, White, Jewish, Religious school, Public school, Athletics, Queer awakening, Therapy, Mental health, Harrassment, Closeted, Heteronormativity, First awareness of queer people, Legacy, Outdoor Action, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Architecture, Visual Art, Forbes (residential college), 185 Nassau, Charter (eating club), Terrace (eating club), Internet Dating, Coming out, Travel, Gay Jeans Day, First relationship, Grad school, University of Delaware, Socioeconomic inequality, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Violence mentioned, Anti-semitism mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 10, 2017

Mike Jenkins

Jenkins discusses his experience at Princeton as a closeted, and later, out gay student. He speaks about majoring in English, coming out to his friends, his involvement with the Pride Alliance, and his work as an editor for The Daily Princetontonian. He talks about his experience as a member of Colonial eating club, working backstage for BodyHype, working as a peer sexual health advisor. Finally, he reflects on how his studies at Princeton continue to influence his life and his hopes for the future.

Jenkins discusses his experience at Princeton as a closeted, and later, out gay student. He speaks about majoring in English, coming out to his friends, his involvement with the Pride Alliance, and his work as an editor for The Daily Princetontonian. He talks about his experience as a member of Colonial eating club, working backstage for BodyHype, working as a peer sexual health advisor. Finally, he reflects on how his studies at Princeton continue to influence his life and his hopes for the future.

Class of 2003

Mike Jenkins

Jenkins discusses his experience at Princeton as a closeted, and later, out gay student. He speaks about majoring in English, coming out to his friends, his involvement with the Pride Alliance, and his work as an editor for The Daily Princetontonian. He talks about his experience as a member of Colonial eating club, working backstage for BodyHype, working as a peer sexual health advisor. Finally, he reflects on how his studies at Princeton continue to influence his life and his hopes for the future.

Jenkins discusses his experience at Princeton as a closeted, and later, out gay student. He speaks about majoring in English, coming out to his friends, his involvement with the Pride Alliance, and his work as an editor for The Daily Princetontonian. He talks about his experience as a member of Colonial eating club, working backstage for BodyHype, working as a peer sexual health advisor. Finally, he reflects on how his studies at Princeton continue to influence his life and his hopes for the future.

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Gay men, Men, Black, English, Theater, Closeted, Attraction to friend, Coming out, Shirley Tilghman, The Daily Princetonian, Pride Alliance, SHARE peers, BodyHype, Dance, Colonial (eating club), Terrace (eating club), Joyce Carol Oates, Creative Writing, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Interviewed on 
July 3, 2017

Hiring of Debbie Bazarsky

July 2001, Debbie Bazarsky became the first full-time LGBT Coordinator, officially titled “LGBT Concerns Coordinator and Assistant to the Dean of Undergraduate Students.” This was also the first time “transgender” was added to the coordinator title. In order to distinguish her position from the Pride Alliance, Bazarsky called her office LGBT Student Services (a name suggested by Dean of Students Kathleen Deignan). Before students returned in Fall 2001, Bazarsky created a mission statement and key programs and services, and started developing programs for LGBT Student Services. In an effort to bring visibility to the new program, she produced calendars that included programs and events, information about the new office, a long list of LGBT groups, and ways to get involved. These were distributed around campus and became a calling card for the office. LGBT Student Services ended the year with the first annual Lavender Graduate & Recognition Ceremony (known in all future years as Lavender Graduation) in the McLean House courtyard on May 11, 2002.

July 2001, Debbie Bazarsky became the first full-time LGBT Coordinator, officially titled “LGBT Concerns Coordinator and Assistant to the Dean of Undergraduate Students.” This was also the first time “transgender” was added to the coordinator title. In order to distinguish her position from the Pride Alliance, Bazarsky called her office LGBT Student Services (a name suggested by Dean of Students Kathleen Deignan). Before students returned in Fall 2001, Bazarsky created a mission statement and key programs and services, and started developing programs for LGBT Student Services. In an effort to bring visibility to the new program, she produced calendars that included programs and events, information about the new office, a long list of LGBT groups, and ways to get involved. These were distributed around campus and became a calling card for the office. LGBT Student Services ended the year with the first annual Lavender Graduate & Recognition Ceremony (known in all future years as Lavender Graduation) in the McLean House courtyard on May 11, 2002.

Hiring of Debbie Bazarsky

July 2001, Debbie Bazarsky became the first full-time LGBT Coordinator, officially titled “LGBT Concerns Coordinator and Assistant to the Dean of Undergraduate Students.” This was also the first time “transgender” was added to the coordinator title. In order to distinguish her position from the Pride Alliance, Bazarsky called her office LGBT Student Services (a name suggested by Dean of Students Kathleen Deignan). Before students returned in Fall 2001, Bazarsky created a mission statement and key programs and services, and started developing programs for LGBT Student Services. In an effort to bring visibility to the new program, she produced calendars that included programs and events, information about the new office, a long list of LGBT groups, and ways to get involved. These were distributed around campus and became a calling card for the office. LGBT Student Services ended the year with the first annual Lavender Graduate & Recognition Ceremony (known in all future years as Lavender Graduation) in the McLean House courtyard on May 11, 2002.

July 2001, Debbie Bazarsky became the first full-time LGBT Coordinator, officially titled “LGBT Concerns Coordinator and Assistant to the Dean of Undergraduate Students.” This was also the first time “transgender” was added to the coordinator title. In order to distinguish her position from the Pride Alliance, Bazarsky called her office LGBT Student Services (a name suggested by Dean of Students Kathleen Deignan). Before students returned in Fall 2001, Bazarsky created a mission statement and key programs and services, and started developing programs for LGBT Student Services. In an effort to bring visibility to the new program, she produced calendars that included programs and events, information about the new office, a long list of LGBT groups, and ways to get involved. These were distributed around campus and became a calling card for the office. LGBT Student Services ended the year with the first annual Lavender Graduate & Recognition Ceremony (known in all future years as Lavender Graduation) in the McLean House courtyard on May 11, 2002.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Amy Trangsrud

Amy Trangsrud discusses studying physics and interacting with the LGBT community on Princeton's campus through the acapella group The Fire Hazards, the LGBT center, and through working as a peer educator. After graduating, Trangsrud earned a PhD in astrophysics from CalTech and helped develop that campus's support systems for LGBT students. Trangsrud then went on to work at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Amy Trangsrud discusses studying physics and interacting with the LGBT community on Princeton's campus through the acapella group The Fire Hazards, the LGBT center, and through working as a peer educator. After graduating, Trangsrud earned a PhD in astrophysics from CalTech and helped develop that campus's support systems for LGBT students. Trangsrud then went on to work at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Class of 2004

Amy Trangsrud

Amy Trangsrud discusses studying physics and interacting with the LGBT community on Princeton's campus through the acapella group The Fire Hazards, the LGBT center, and through working as a peer educator. After graduating, Trangsrud earned a PhD in astrophysics from CalTech and helped develop that campus's support systems for LGBT students. Trangsrud then went on to work at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Amy Trangsrud discusses studying physics and interacting with the LGBT community on Princeton's campus through the acapella group The Fire Hazards, the LGBT center, and through working as a peer educator. After graduating, Trangsrud earned a PhD in astrophysics from CalTech and helped develop that campus's support systems for LGBT students. Trangsrud then went on to work at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

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public school, sibling, Athletics, Girl Scouts, First awareness of queer people, Coming out, Queer awakening, Tomboy, Feminist activism, Church, Christian, Buddhist, Outdoor Action, LGBT Center, Debbie Bazarsky, Pride Alliance, Questioning sexuality, Gay, Family acceptance, Fire Hazards, Theater Intime, Independent Meal Plan, Frist Campus Center, First relationship, Princeton in Asia, Lavender Graduation, Peer Educators, Study Abroad, genderqueer, nonbinary, Gender Affirming Care, Misgendering, Cutting hair
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Depression mentioned, Sexual Harrasment mentioned, Trauma mentioned, Slur, Suicide mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 18, 2017

Anthony Roth Costanzo

Costanzo discusses his career in opera and musical theater, as well as his experiences as a gay man at Princeton.

Costanzo discusses his career in opera and musical theater, as well as his experiences as a gay man at Princeton.

Class of 2004

Anthony Roth Costanzo

Costanzo discusses his career in opera and musical theater, as well as his experiences as a gay man at Princeton.

Costanzo discusses his career in opera and musical theater, as well as his experiences as a gay man at Princeton.

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Gay men, Queer men, Men, White, Music, Theater, Duke University, Jewish, Professional children’s school, Cooking, Singing, Opera, Harassment, Film, Michael Pratt, Internet dating, Holder Hall, Terrace (eating club), Broadway, Justin Vivian Bond, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 19, 2022

Sustained Dialogue

During the Spring of 2002, Debbie Bazarsky partnered with David Tukey ‘02 to begin a Sustained Dialogue group for conservative students and LGBTQIA+ students. Tukey was the president of College Republicans and identified as an ally to the queer community on campus. The group was made up of students from The Princeton Tory, College Republicans, Pride Alliance officers, and Peer Educators. Some LGBTQIA+ students stopped attending group meetings because they felt insulted by conservative students’ rhetoric.

During the Spring of 2002, Debbie Bazarsky partnered with David Tukey ‘02 to begin a Sustained Dialogue group for conservative students and LGBTQIA+ students. Tukey was the president of College Republicans and identified as an ally to the queer community on campus. The group was made up of students from The Princeton Tory, College Republicans, Pride Alliance officers, and Peer Educators. Some LGBTQIA+ students stopped attending group meetings because they felt insulted by conservative students’ rhetoric.

Sustained Dialogue

During the Spring of 2002, Debbie Bazarsky partnered with David Tukey ‘02 to begin a Sustained Dialogue group for conservative students and LGBTQIA+ students. Tukey was the president of College Republicans and identified as an ally to the queer community on campus. The group was made up of students from The Princeton Tory, College Republicans, Pride Alliance officers, and Peer Educators. Some LGBTQIA+ students stopped attending group meetings because they felt insulted by conservative students’ rhetoric.

During the Spring of 2002, Debbie Bazarsky partnered with David Tukey ‘02 to begin a Sustained Dialogue group for conservative students and LGBTQIA+ students. Tukey was the president of College Republicans and identified as an ally to the queer community on campus. The group was made up of students from The Princeton Tory, College Republicans, Pride Alliance officers, and Peer Educators. Some LGBTQIA+ students stopped attending group meetings because they felt insulted by conservative students’ rhetoric.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Andrew Bruck

Andrew Bruck shares about his experiences growing up in Northern New Jersey and his changing family dynamics. Bruck discusses growing up as a young person during the HIV/AIDS crisis and what led him to Princeton as an undergraduate student, specifically his interest in public policy and legal issues. He shares his coming out process and how being an out student on campus shaped his experiences and invovlements. Towards the end of the interview Bruck walks us through his journey towards law school and beyond.

Andrew Bruck shares about his experiences growing up in Northern New Jersey and his changing family dynamics. Bruck discusses growing up as a young person during the HIV/AIDS crisis and what led him to Princeton as an undergraduate student, specifically his interest in public policy and legal issues. He shares his coming out process and how being an out student on campus shaped his experiences and invovlements. Towards the end of the interview Bruck walks us through his journey towards law school and beyond.

Class of 2005

Andrew Bruck

Andrew Bruck shares about his experiences growing up in Northern New Jersey and his changing family dynamics. Bruck discusses growing up as a young person during the HIV/AIDS crisis and what led him to Princeton as an undergraduate student, specifically his interest in public policy and legal issues. He shares his coming out process and how being an out student on campus shaped his experiences and invovlements. Towards the end of the interview Bruck walks us through his journey towards law school and beyond.

Andrew Bruck shares about his experiences growing up in Northern New Jersey and his changing family dynamics. Bruck discusses growing up as a young person during the HIV/AIDS crisis and what led him to Princeton as an undergraduate student, specifically his interest in public policy and legal issues. He shares his coming out process and how being an out student on campus shaped his experiences and invovlements. Towards the end of the interview Bruck walks us through his journey towards law school and beyond.

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Gay men, Men, White, HIV/AIDS crisis, Woodrow Wilson School, Closeted, Religious school, Whig-Cliosophic Society, Robert George, Gay marriage legalized, Lawrence v. Texas, Internet and queer awakening, Coming out, Debate team, Terrace (eating club), Debbie Bazarsky, Stanford, George Segal, Shirley Tilghman, Christopher Eisgruber, First relationship, Lavender Graduation, Politics, Law school, Stanford, Marriage, Federal prosecutor, FBI, DEA, ATF, Racism in policing, Deputy Attorney General, Department of Justice, Meeting partner, Transphobic legislation, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Racism mentioned, Transphobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 18, 2023

Connor Allman

Allman discusses navigating his sexuality during childhood and his decision to attend Princeton as a legacy student. He elaborates on his participation within Triangle Club and Tower eating club as sources of fun and support for his identity. He also describes his experience coming out at Princeton as accepting and his experiences with the largely word of mouth dating culture among gay men. Finally, he details his life after Princeton as an English teacher in China, New York, and Colorado.

Allman discusses navigating his sexuality during childhood and his decision to attend Princeton as a legacy student. He elaborates on his participation within Triangle Club and Tower eating club as sources of fun and support for his identity. He also describes his experience coming out at Princeton as accepting and his experiences with the largely word of mouth dating culture among gay men. Finally, he details his life after Princeton as an English teacher in China, New York, and Colorado.

Class of 2004

Connor Allman

Allman discusses navigating his sexuality during childhood and his decision to attend Princeton as a legacy student. He elaborates on his participation within Triangle Club and Tower eating club as sources of fun and support for his identity. He also describes his experience coming out at Princeton as accepting and his experiences with the largely word of mouth dating culture among gay men. Finally, he details his life after Princeton as an English teacher in China, New York, and Colorado.

Allman discusses navigating his sexuality during childhood and his decision to attend Princeton as a legacy student. He elaborates on his participation within Triangle Club and Tower eating club as sources of fun and support for his identity. He also describes his experience coming out at Princeton as accepting and his experiences with the largely word of mouth dating culture among gay men. Finally, he details his life after Princeton as an English teacher in China, New York, and Colorado.

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Gay men, men, White, English, Triangle Club, Eating clubs, Tower (eating club), Terrace (eating club), Theater, Debbie Bazarsky, Wilson (residential college), First date, Meeting partner
Content Notice
Ilness and death mentioned
Interviewed on 
August 12, 2018

The Creation of the LGBT Center

In the spring of 2002, students began writing a proposal for the creation of an LGBT Center. Gabriel Barrett ‘02 (President of the Pride Alliance, 2000-2001) researched and wrote the first draft of this formal proposal, and Sue Dyer ‘03 (President of the Pride Alliance, 2001-2002) edited the draft. In 2003, the LGBT Task Force continued work on the proposal under the leadership of co-chairs Jan Runkle (Business Manager, University Health Services, LGBT Task Force co-chair, 2002-2005) and Vigi Sklar ‘03 (LGBT Task Force co-chair, 2002-2003).

In the summer of 2005, the LGBT Student Services became the LGBT Center, and Debbie Bazarsky (LGBT Student Services Coordinator, 2001-2005) took on a new role as the LGBT Center Director. Construction for the new LGBT Center began in October 2005, and the new Center opened its doors in the late spring semester of 2006 in room 246 Frist Campus Center with an adjoining Rainbow Lounge in room 247.

During the formation of the LGBT Center, Dean Kathleen Deignan (among others) strongly supported parity between the Centers with equivalent staffing and support. In Fall 2005, a recent graduate of Allegheny College, Matthew Carcella, was hired as assistant to the director in the LGBT Center.

In the spring of 2002, students began writing a proposal for the creation of an LGBT Center. Gabriel Barrett ‘02 (President of the Pride Alliance, 2000-2001) researched and wrote the first draft of this formal proposal, and Sue Dyer ‘03 (President of the Pride Alliance, 2001-2002) edited the draft. In 2003, the LGBT Task Force continued work on the proposal under the leadership of co-chairs Jan Runkle (Business Manager, University Health Services, LGBT Task Force co-chair, 2002-2005) and Vigi Sklar ‘03 (LGBT Task Force co-chair, 2002-2003).

In the summer of 2005, the LGBT Student Services became the LGBT Center, and Debbie Bazarsky (LGBT Student Services Coordinator, 2001-2005) took on a new role as the LGBT Center Director. Construction for the new LGBT Center began in October 2005, and the new Center opened its doors in the late spring semester of 2006 in room 246 Frist Campus Center with an adjoining Rainbow Lounge in room 247.

During the formation of the LGBT Center, Dean Kathleen Deignan (among others) strongly supported parity between the Centers with equivalent staffing and support. In Fall 2005, a recent graduate of Allegheny College, Matthew Carcella, was hired as assistant to the director in the LGBT Center.

The Creation of the LGBT Center

In the spring of 2002, students began writing a proposal for the creation of an LGBT Center. Gabriel Barrett ‘02 (President of the Pride Alliance, 2000-2001) researched and wrote the first draft of this formal proposal, and Sue Dyer ‘03 (President of the Pride Alliance, 2001-2002) edited the draft. In 2003, the LGBT Task Force continued work on the proposal under the leadership of co-chairs Jan Runkle (Business Manager, University Health Services, LGBT Task Force co-chair, 2002-2005) and Vigi Sklar ‘03 (LGBT Task Force co-chair, 2002-2003).

In the summer of 2005, the LGBT Student Services became the LGBT Center, and Debbie Bazarsky (LGBT Student Services Coordinator, 2001-2005) took on a new role as the LGBT Center Director. Construction for the new LGBT Center began in October 2005, and the new Center opened its doors in the late spring semester of 2006 in room 246 Frist Campus Center with an adjoining Rainbow Lounge in room 247.

During the formation of the LGBT Center, Dean Kathleen Deignan (among others) strongly supported parity between the Centers with equivalent staffing and support. In Fall 2005, a recent graduate of Allegheny College, Matthew Carcella, was hired as assistant to the director in the LGBT Center.

In the spring of 2002, students began writing a proposal for the creation of an LGBT Center. Gabriel Barrett ‘02 (President of the Pride Alliance, 2000-2001) researched and wrote the first draft of this formal proposal, and Sue Dyer ‘03 (President of the Pride Alliance, 2001-2002) edited the draft. In 2003, the LGBT Task Force continued work on the proposal under the leadership of co-chairs Jan Runkle (Business Manager, University Health Services, LGBT Task Force co-chair, 2002-2005) and Vigi Sklar ‘03 (LGBT Task Force co-chair, 2002-2003).

In the summer of 2005, the LGBT Student Services became the LGBT Center, and Debbie Bazarsky (LGBT Student Services Coordinator, 2001-2005) took on a new role as the LGBT Center Director. Construction for the new LGBT Center began in October 2005, and the new Center opened its doors in the late spring semester of 2006 in room 246 Frist Campus Center with an adjoining Rainbow Lounge in room 247.

During the formation of the LGBT Center, Dean Kathleen Deignan (among others) strongly supported parity between the Centers with equivalent staffing and support. In Fall 2005, a recent graduate of Allegheny College, Matthew Carcella, was hired as assistant to the director in the LGBT Center.

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Interviewed on 

Brady Walkinshaw

Brady Piñero Walkinshaw talks about the journey of his family which led to his birth in Minneapolis, Minnesota and ultimate arrvival in rural Washington. Walkinshaw shares contexts on the value of education that was instilled early in his life due to his parents career as educators and previous Peace Corps volunteers. He discusses what life was like growing up in the 90s as someone who was closeted but "not really knowing it" at the time. As the interview progresses he shares more about his experience as Latino from rural America and how that influenced his college admissions process and arrival to Princeton. As Walkinshaw walks us through his campus history he shares more about his expereinces with the eating clubs, Outdoor Action, and Student Volunteers Council. Towards the end of the interview he shares more about his involvement with the LGBT Center as an alumni, personal stories about his relationships and career, as well as his hopes for the future.

Brady Piñero Walkinshaw talks about the journey of his family which led to his birth in Minneapolis, Minnesota and ultimate arrvival in rural Washington. Walkinshaw shares contexts on the value of education that was instilled early in his life due to his parents career as educators and previous Peace Corps volunteers. He discusses what life was like growing up in the 90s as someone who was closeted but "not really knowing it" at the time. As the interview progresses he shares more about his experience as Latino from rural America and how that influenced his college admissions process and arrival to Princeton. As Walkinshaw walks us through his campus history he shares more about his expereinces with the eating clubs, Outdoor Action, and Student Volunteers Council. Towards the end of the interview he shares more about his involvement with the LGBT Center as an alumni, personal stories about his relationships and career, as well as his hopes for the future.

Class of 2006

Brady Walkinshaw

Brady Piñero Walkinshaw talks about the journey of his family which led to his birth in Minneapolis, Minnesota and ultimate arrvival in rural Washington. Walkinshaw shares contexts on the value of education that was instilled early in his life due to his parents career as educators and previous Peace Corps volunteers. He discusses what life was like growing up in the 90s as someone who was closeted but "not really knowing it" at the time. As the interview progresses he shares more about his experience as Latino from rural America and how that influenced his college admissions process and arrival to Princeton. As Walkinshaw walks us through his campus history he shares more about his expereinces with the eating clubs, Outdoor Action, and Student Volunteers Council. Towards the end of the interview he shares more about his involvement with the LGBT Center as an alumni, personal stories about his relationships and career, as well as his hopes for the future.

Brady Piñero Walkinshaw talks about the journey of his family which led to his birth in Minneapolis, Minnesota and ultimate arrvival in rural Washington. Walkinshaw shares contexts on the value of education that was instilled early in his life due to his parents career as educators and previous Peace Corps volunteers. He discusses what life was like growing up in the 90s as someone who was closeted but "not really knowing it" at the time. As the interview progresses he shares more about his experience as Latino from rural America and how that influenced his college admissions process and arrival to Princeton. As Walkinshaw walks us through his campus history he shares more about his expereinces with the eating clubs, Outdoor Action, and Student Volunteers Council. Towards the end of the interview he shares more about his involvement with the LGBT Center as an alumni, personal stories about his relationships and career, as well as his hopes for the future.

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Second-generation immigrant, Cuban, Latine/a/o/x or Hispanic, Immigration, Socioeconomic inequality, Spanish speaking, Gay marriage legalized, domestic partnerships, Mixed Race, Colorism, Family acceptance, Gay person, Closeted, Queer, Public school, Coming out, Affinity groups, Rockefeller College (Residential College), Every Voice conference, Independent Meal Plan, Work Study, Student Volunteers Council, LGBT Center, Debbie Bazarsky, Judy Jarvis, Woodrow Wilson School (concentration), Activism, LGBT activism, Marriage, Climate activism, #MeToo Movement
Content Notice
Interviewed on 
July 16, 2018

Leona Kumagai

Kumagai speaks about her time at Princeton as an out, bisexual student, her relationship with her culture and family, and her teaching career. She discusses her membership at Terrace eating club, her close-knit group of friends, participating in Kendo Club, and writing for Tiger Writing. She also talks about influential professors, her favorite places on campus, discrimination she faced throughout her life, and teaching high school students in Newark and New York City.

Kumagai speaks about her time at Princeton as an out, bisexual student, her relationship with her culture and family, and her teaching career. She discusses her membership at Terrace eating club, her close-knit group of friends, participating in Kendo Club, and writing for Tiger Writing. She also talks about influential professors, her favorite places on campus, discrimination she faced throughout her life, and teaching high school students in Newark and New York City.

Class of 2006

Leona Kumagai

Kumagai speaks about her time at Princeton as an out, bisexual student, her relationship with her culture and family, and her teaching career. She discusses her membership at Terrace eating club, her close-knit group of friends, participating in Kendo Club, and writing for Tiger Writing. She also talks about influential professors, her favorite places on campus, discrimination she faced throughout her life, and teaching high school students in Newark and New York City.

Kumagai speaks about her time at Princeton as an out, bisexual student, her relationship with her culture and family, and her teaching career. She discusses her membership at Terrace eating club, her close-knit group of friends, participating in Kendo Club, and writing for Tiger Writing. She also talks about influential professors, her favorite places on campus, discrimination she faced throughout her life, and teaching high school students in Newark and New York City.

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Bisexual women, Women, Asian-American, Japanese, Tomboy, Harrassment, Athletics, First relationship, Japanese speaking, Computer Science, East Asian Studies, Terrace (eating club), Coming out, The Tiger, LGBT activism, Students for a Sensible Drug Policy at Princeton, Teaching, Hoagie Haven, Reunions, The Princeton Tory, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Slur, Homophobia mentioned, Racism mentioned
Interviewed on 
June 28, 2017

Princeton Adds Gender Identity to Non-Discrimination Policy

At the beginning of 2006, Princeton added a gender identity clause to its non-discrimination policy and granted graduate student domestic partner benefits. On May 2, 2006, the Council of Princeton University Committee (CPUC) voted unanimously to amend the “Respect for Others” section of “Rights, Rules, Responsibilities” to reflect the new edition to the non-discrimination policy.

At the beginning of 2006, Princeton added a gender identity clause to its non-discrimination policy and granted graduate student domestic partner benefits. On May 2, 2006, the Council of Princeton University Committee (CPUC) voted unanimously to amend the “Respect for Others” section of “Rights, Rules, Responsibilities” to reflect the new edition to the non-discrimination policy.

Princeton Adds Gender Identity to Non-Discrimination Policy

At the beginning of 2006, Princeton added a gender identity clause to its non-discrimination policy and granted graduate student domestic partner benefits. On May 2, 2006, the Council of Princeton University Committee (CPUC) voted unanimously to amend the “Respect for Others” section of “Rights, Rules, Responsibilities” to reflect the new edition to the non-discrimination policy.

At the beginning of 2006, Princeton added a gender identity clause to its non-discrimination policy and granted graduate student domestic partner benefits. On May 2, 2006, the Council of Princeton University Committee (CPUC) voted unanimously to amend the “Respect for Others” section of “Rights, Rules, Responsibilities” to reflect the new edition to the non-discrimination policy.

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Interviewed on 

Carter Hahn

Hahn discusses how his family influenced his decision to attend Princeton and his time at the university as an out, gay student. He speaks about his participation on the university's club volleyball team, his time as a member of the Tiger Inn eating club, and his time studying abroad in Australia. In addition, he describes coming out during his junior year, befriending other gay students through Tiger Inn, and his current career as an ad executive for a variety of entertainment companies.

Hahn discusses how his family influenced his decision to attend Princeton and his time at the university as an out, gay student. He speaks about his participation on the university's club volleyball team, his time as a member of the Tiger Inn eating club, and his time studying abroad in Australia. In addition, he describes coming out during his junior year, befriending other gay students through Tiger Inn, and his current career as an ad executive for a variety of entertainment companies.

Class of 2007

Carter Hahn

Hahn discusses how his family influenced his decision to attend Princeton and his time at the university as an out, gay student. He speaks about his participation on the university's club volleyball team, his time as a member of the Tiger Inn eating club, and his time studying abroad in Australia. In addition, he describes coming out during his junior year, befriending other gay students through Tiger Inn, and his current career as an ad executive for a variety of entertainment companies.

Hahn discusses how his family influenced his decision to attend Princeton and his time at the university as an out, gay student. He speaks about his participation on the university's club volleyball team, his time as a member of the Tiger Inn eating club, and his time studying abroad in Australia. In addition, he describes coming out during his junior year, befriending other gay students through Tiger Inn, and his current career as an ad executive for a variety of entertainment companies.

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Gay men, Men, White, First relationship, Closeted, Athletics, Coming out, Debate team, Woodrow Wilson School, Campus visit, Outdoor Action, Greek life, Tiger Inn (eating club), LGBT Center, Study abroad, Clubs/bars, Politics, Hookups, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Slur, Homophobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 19, 2017

Heather Rae Martin

Martin speaks about her experience at Princeton as a queer student during the early 2000s. She discusses her time as a member of the dance groups the Black Arts Collective, Expressions, and her participation in Friday Night Thing. She also talks about a long-term relationship with another woman which ended in a domestic dispute, the academic consequences, and the support she received from LGBT administrators and an ally professor. Finally, she talks about leaving the Jehovah's Witness faith, her struggles to work her way through the corporate world as a queer, Black woman, and working with the queer alumni group BT Gala.

Martin speaks about her experience at Princeton as a queer student during the early 2000s. She discusses her time as a member of the dance groups the Black Arts Collective, Expressions, and her participation in Friday Night Thing. She also talks about a long-term relationship with another woman which ended in a domestic dispute, the academic consequences, and the support she received from LGBT administrators and an ally professor. Finally, she talks about leaving the Jehovah's Witness faith, her struggles to work her way through the corporate world as a queer, Black woman, and working with the queer alumni group BT Gala.

Class of 2007

Heather Rae Martin

Martin speaks about her experience at Princeton as a queer student during the early 2000s. She discusses her time as a member of the dance groups the Black Arts Collective, Expressions, and her participation in Friday Night Thing. She also talks about a long-term relationship with another woman which ended in a domestic dispute, the academic consequences, and the support she received from LGBT administrators and an ally professor. Finally, she talks about leaving the Jehovah's Witness faith, her struggles to work her way through the corporate world as a queer, Black woman, and working with the queer alumni group BT Gala.

Martin speaks about her experience at Princeton as a queer student during the early 2000s. She discusses her time as a member of the dance groups the Black Arts Collective, Expressions, and her participation in Friday Night Thing. She also talks about a long-term relationship with another woman which ended in a domestic dispute, the academic consequences, and the support she received from LGBT administrators and an ally professor. Finally, she talks about leaving the Jehovah's Witness faith, her struggles to work her way through the corporate world as a queer, Black woman, and working with the queer alumni group BT Gala.

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Black, Woman, Masculine-of-center, Gender-nonconforming, Public school, Jehovah’s Witness, Christian, Family estrangement, Questioning sexuality, Dance, Expressions Dance Company, Black Arts Company (BAC), Sympoh, Body image, Religion and queerness, Excommunication, Socioeconomic inequality, Heteronormativity, Undergraduate Student, Choosing Princeton, First relationship, Closeted, Stereotypes, Sexual awakening, LGBT Center, Lavender Graduation, Debbie Bazarsky, Friday Night Thing (FNT), Chemistry, Theater, Mental health, Employment discrimination, Reagan Administration, Trump Administration, Consulting, BTGALA, Frist Campus Center
Content Notice
Fatphobia mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Sexual assault mentioned, Abuse mentioned, Violence mentioned, Illness and death mentioned, Racism mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 6, 2018

Civil Unions in New Jersey

On October 25, 2006, New Jersey Supreme Court ruled to grant same-sex partners all state benefits available to married couples. New Jersey had allowed domestic partnerships for same-sex couples since 2004, becoming the fifth state to do so under the leadership of Governor James McGreevey. The decision to call these partnerships “civil unions” or full marriage was left up to state legislature; although they ultimately chose to call them civil unions, the court’s decision was still considered a partial victory for gay rights. Said The Daily Princetonian, “[l]ess than 10 minutes after the court released its decision at 3 p.m., LGBT Center director Debbie Bazarsky sent a celebratory email to the Pride-Net mailing list. ‘We Won!’ the subject line read. “Free Wedding Cake at the LGBT Center NOW.’” Bazarsky sent a second email clarifying the difference between “civil union” and “marriage.” The University Student Government submitted an amicus brief in support of same-sex marriage after a student-body-wide vote (51.3% for). The Anscombe Society, a newly formed student organization focusing on chastity and a “pro family” agenda, submitted an amicus brief opposing same sex-marriage.

On October 25, 2006, New Jersey Supreme Court ruled to grant same-sex partners all state benefits available to married couples. New Jersey had allowed domestic partnerships for same-sex couples since 2004, becoming the fifth state to do so under the leadership of Governor James McGreevey. The decision to call these partnerships “civil unions” or full marriage was left up to state legislature; although they ultimately chose to call them civil unions, the court’s decision was still considered a partial victory for gay rights. Said The Daily Princetonian, “[l]ess than 10 minutes after the court released its decision at 3 p.m., LGBT Center director Debbie Bazarsky sent a celebratory email to the Pride-Net mailing list. ‘We Won!’ the subject line read. “Free Wedding Cake at the LGBT Center NOW.’” Bazarsky sent a second email clarifying the difference between “civil union” and “marriage.” The University Student Government submitted an amicus brief in support of same-sex marriage after a student-body-wide vote (51.3% for). The Anscombe Society, a newly formed student organization focusing on chastity and a “pro family” agenda, submitted an amicus brief opposing same sex-marriage.

Civil Unions in New Jersey

On October 25, 2006, New Jersey Supreme Court ruled to grant same-sex partners all state benefits available to married couples. New Jersey had allowed domestic partnerships for same-sex couples since 2004, becoming the fifth state to do so under the leadership of Governor James McGreevey. The decision to call these partnerships “civil unions” or full marriage was left up to state legislature; although they ultimately chose to call them civil unions, the court’s decision was still considered a partial victory for gay rights. Said The Daily Princetonian, “[l]ess than 10 minutes after the court released its decision at 3 p.m., LGBT Center director Debbie Bazarsky sent a celebratory email to the Pride-Net mailing list. ‘We Won!’ the subject line read. “Free Wedding Cake at the LGBT Center NOW.’” Bazarsky sent a second email clarifying the difference between “civil union” and “marriage.” The University Student Government submitted an amicus brief in support of same-sex marriage after a student-body-wide vote (51.3% for). The Anscombe Society, a newly formed student organization focusing on chastity and a “pro family” agenda, submitted an amicus brief opposing same sex-marriage.

On October 25, 2006, New Jersey Supreme Court ruled to grant same-sex partners all state benefits available to married couples. New Jersey had allowed domestic partnerships for same-sex couples since 2004, becoming the fifth state to do so under the leadership of Governor James McGreevey. The decision to call these partnerships “civil unions” or full marriage was left up to state legislature; although they ultimately chose to call them civil unions, the court’s decision was still considered a partial victory for gay rights. Said The Daily Princetonian, “[l]ess than 10 minutes after the court released its decision at 3 p.m., LGBT Center director Debbie Bazarsky sent a celebratory email to the Pride-Net mailing list. ‘We Won!’ the subject line read. “Free Wedding Cake at the LGBT Center NOW.’” Bazarsky sent a second email clarifying the difference between “civil union” and “marriage.” The University Student Government submitted an amicus brief in support of same-sex marriage after a student-body-wide vote (51.3% for). The Anscombe Society, a newly formed student organization focusing on chastity and a “pro family” agenda, submitted an amicus brief opposing same sex-marriage.

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Interviewed on 

Jorge Santana

Santana discusses questioning his sexuality and coming out while attending Princeton. He speaks about his identity as immigrating from Mexico to the US as a child, questioning his sexuality throughout his adolescence, and how he came to attend Princeton. He also discusses rushing a fraternity, his close friends, dating other students, and accepting his identity. Finally, he talks about coming out to his friends and family, connecting with other LGBT alumni in his class, and working for Teach for America.

Santana discusses questioning his sexuality and coming out while attending Princeton. He speaks about his identity as immigrating from Mexico to the US as a child, questioning his sexuality throughout his adolescence, and how he came to attend Princeton. He also discusses rushing a fraternity, his close friends, dating other students, and accepting his identity. Finally, he talks about coming out to his friends and family, connecting with other LGBT alumni in his class, and working for Teach for America.

Class of 2008

Jorge Santana

Santana discusses questioning his sexuality and coming out while attending Princeton. He speaks about his identity as immigrating from Mexico to the US as a child, questioning his sexuality throughout his adolescence, and how he came to attend Princeton. He also discusses rushing a fraternity, his close friends, dating other students, and accepting his identity. Finally, he talks about coming out to his friends and family, connecting with other LGBT alumni in his class, and working for Teach for America.

Santana discusses questioning his sexuality and coming out while attending Princeton. He speaks about his identity as immigrating from Mexico to the US as a child, questioning his sexuality throughout his adolescence, and how he came to attend Princeton. He also discusses rushing a fraternity, his close friends, dating other students, and accepting his identity. Finally, he talks about coming out to his friends and family, connecting with other LGBT alumni in his class, and working for Teach for America.

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Gay man, Mexican, Immigration, First-generation immigrant, Siblings, Latino, Public school, Person of Color (POC), Academia, Spanish speaking, Art, Music, Questioning sexuality, Stereotypes, Heteronormativity, First relationship, Attraction to friend, Choosing Princeton, Campus visit, Princeton Preview, Orientation, Outdoor Action, Interracial friendship, Drinking culture, Greek Life, Chapel Choir, The Daily Princetonian, El Centro, Imposter Syndrome, Forbes (residential college), Travel abroad, Terrace (eating club), Closeted, Mental Health, Friend acceptance, Christian, Religion and queerness, LGBT Center, Coming Out, Moving to LGBTQ+ friendly city, Reunions, Breakup, Cloister (eating club), Bicker, Economics, Gay Rights Movement, HIV/AIDS crisis, Family acceptance, Teach for America, Graduate School, Management, Discrimination, Socioeconomic inequality
Content Notice
Illness and death mentioned, Depression mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Violence mentioned, Racism mentioned
Interviewed on 
September 22, 2017

Roger Mason

Mason speaks about his experience at Princeton as an out, pansexual student. He discusses his childhood sexuality and gender expression, attending the Pilgrim School, and how the Black queer student play Holding Hands With Darkness influenced his decision to attend Princeton. He also talks about his time as the artistic director for the Black Arts Company, taking on a drag role in a McCarter show, and his senior thesis production of Orange Woman. Finally, he reflects on coming out to his family, social isolation at Princeton, and his theatrical career after college.

Mason speaks about his experience at Princeton as an out, pansexual student. He discusses his childhood sexuality and gender expression, attending the Pilgrim School, and how the Black queer student play Holding Hands With Darkness influenced his decision to attend Princeton. He also talks about his time as the artistic director for the Black Arts Company, taking on a drag role in a McCarter show, and his senior thesis production of Orange Woman. Finally, he reflects on coming out to his family, social isolation at Princeton, and his theatrical career after college.

Class of 2008

Roger Mason

Mason speaks about his experience at Princeton as an out, pansexual student. He discusses his childhood sexuality and gender expression, attending the Pilgrim School, and how the Black queer student play Holding Hands With Darkness influenced his decision to attend Princeton. He also talks about his time as the artistic director for the Black Arts Company, taking on a drag role in a McCarter show, and his senior thesis production of Orange Woman. Finally, he reflects on coming out to his family, social isolation at Princeton, and his theatrical career after college.

Mason speaks about his experience at Princeton as an out, pansexual student. He discusses his childhood sexuality and gender expression, attending the Pilgrim School, and how the Black queer student play Holding Hands With Darkness influenced his decision to attend Princeton. He also talks about his time as the artistic director for the Black Arts Company, taking on a drag role in a McCarter show, and his senior thesis production of Orange Woman. Finally, he reflects on coming out to his family, social isolation at Princeton, and his theatrical career after college.

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Pansexual people, Black, White, Filipino, Mixed race, Genderqueer, Gender nonconforming, Discrimination, LA riots, Religious school, Catholic, Private school, Socioeconomic inequality, Pride parade, Coming out, Stereotypes, Queer awakening, Questioning sexuality, Theater, Music, Mental health, Internet dating, Forced outing, Family estrangement, Family acceptance, First awareness of queer people, Campus visit, African American Studies, Lewis Center for the Arts (LCA), English, Freshman Scholars Institue (FSI), Black Arts Company (BAC), Theatre Intime, 185 Nassau, Senior thesis, The Daily Princetonian, McCarter Theater, Harrassment, Bicker, Colonial (eating club), Cap and Gown (eating club), Terrace (eating club), Lavender Graduation, 2008 Recession, Northwestern University, MFA, Undergraduate
Content Notice
Racism mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Illness and death mentioned, Sexual violence mentioned, Slur
Interviewed on 
June 19, 2017

LGBT Post-Doctoral Fellowship

In 2005, Fund for Reunion,  the LGBT Alumni Association of Princeton University, and the Society of Fellows, partnered to sponsor  The  Cotsen LGBT Post Doctoral Fellowship. The 2005 search for an LGBT Post Doctoral Fellow yielded two new academics at Princeton who would teach and research about LGBT issues. The first fellow, Gayle Salamon, came to Princeton in the 2005-2006 academic year from the University of California, Berkeley. At Princeton, she taught courses on transgender theory, an Introduction to Gender and Sexuality course, and on the theme of “passing in literature.” The second, Margot Canaday, had just finished a year as a postdoctoral fellow with the Sexuality Research Fellowship Program of the Social Science Research Council, and was awarded a fellowship by the History department. At the end of their fellowships in 2008, both Solomon and Canaday were hired to the faculty of the English and History departments respectively – making them the first dedicated hires in queer studies and the first fellows in the history of the Society of Fellows to be hired to faculty.

In 2005, Fund for Reunion,  the LGBT Alumni Association of Princeton University, and the Society of Fellows, partnered to sponsor  The  Cotsen LGBT Post Doctoral Fellowship. The 2005 search for an LGBT Post Doctoral Fellow yielded two new academics at Princeton who would teach and research about LGBT issues. The first fellow, Gayle Salamon, came to Princeton in the 2005-2006 academic year from the University of California, Berkeley. At Princeton, she taught courses on transgender theory, an Introduction to Gender and Sexuality course, and on the theme of “passing in literature.” The second, Margot Canaday, had just finished a year as a postdoctoral fellow with the Sexuality Research Fellowship Program of the Social Science Research Council, and was awarded a fellowship by the History department. At the end of their fellowships in 2008, both Solomon and Canaday were hired to the faculty of the English and History departments respectively – making them the first dedicated hires in queer studies and the first fellows in the history of the Society of Fellows to be hired to faculty.

LGBT Post-Doctoral Fellowship

In 2005, Fund for Reunion,  the LGBT Alumni Association of Princeton University, and the Society of Fellows, partnered to sponsor  The  Cotsen LGBT Post Doctoral Fellowship. The 2005 search for an LGBT Post Doctoral Fellow yielded two new academics at Princeton who would teach and research about LGBT issues. The first fellow, Gayle Salamon, came to Princeton in the 2005-2006 academic year from the University of California, Berkeley. At Princeton, she taught courses on transgender theory, an Introduction to Gender and Sexuality course, and on the theme of “passing in literature.” The second, Margot Canaday, had just finished a year as a postdoctoral fellow with the Sexuality Research Fellowship Program of the Social Science Research Council, and was awarded a fellowship by the History department. At the end of their fellowships in 2008, both Solomon and Canaday were hired to the faculty of the English and History departments respectively – making them the first dedicated hires in queer studies and the first fellows in the history of the Society of Fellows to be hired to faculty.

In 2005, Fund for Reunion,  the LGBT Alumni Association of Princeton University, and the Society of Fellows, partnered to sponsor  The  Cotsen LGBT Post Doctoral Fellowship. The 2005 search for an LGBT Post Doctoral Fellow yielded two new academics at Princeton who would teach and research about LGBT issues. The first fellow, Gayle Salamon, came to Princeton in the 2005-2006 academic year from the University of California, Berkeley. At Princeton, she taught courses on transgender theory, an Introduction to Gender and Sexuality course, and on the theme of “passing in literature.” The second, Margot Canaday, had just finished a year as a postdoctoral fellow with the Sexuality Research Fellowship Program of the Social Science Research Council, and was awarded a fellowship by the History department. At the end of their fellowships in 2008, both Solomon and Canaday were hired to the faculty of the English and History departments respectively – making them the first dedicated hires in queer studies and the first fellows in the history of the Society of Fellows to be hired to faculty.

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Interviewed on 

Damian Carrieri

Carrieri recounts his time as a closeted undergraduate and then his experiences as an out, gay graduate student in Chemistry at Princeton. In addition, he reflects on his time as president of the Queer Graduate Caucus before and during the creation of the university's LGBT center. He speaks about his social life as a member of the Old Graduate College, Chapel Choir, Theatre Intime, and Princeton University Players. Finally, he discusses coming out to his family and his postdoctoral work in Denver and Seattle.

Carrieri recounts his time as a closeted undergraduate and then his experiences as an out, gay graduate student in Chemistry at Princeton. In addition, he reflects on his time as president of the Queer Graduate Caucus before and during the creation of the university's LGBT center. He speaks about his social life as a member of the Old Graduate College, Chapel Choir, Theatre Intime, and Princeton University Players. Finally, he discusses coming out to his family and his postdoctoral work in Denver and Seattle.

Class of 2009

Damian Carrieri

Carrieri recounts his time as a closeted undergraduate and then his experiences as an out, gay graduate student in Chemistry at Princeton. In addition, he reflects on his time as president of the Queer Graduate Caucus before and during the creation of the university's LGBT center. He speaks about his social life as a member of the Old Graduate College, Chapel Choir, Theatre Intime, and Princeton University Players. Finally, he discusses coming out to his family and his postdoctoral work in Denver and Seattle.

Carrieri recounts his time as a closeted undergraduate and then his experiences as an out, gay graduate student in Chemistry at Princeton. In addition, he reflects on his time as president of the Queer Graduate Caucus before and during the creation of the university's LGBT center. He speaks about his social life as a member of the Old Graduate College, Chapel Choir, Theatre Intime, and Princeton University Players. Finally, he discusses coming out to his family and his postdoctoral work in Denver and Seattle.

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Catholic, White, Public school, Theater, Musical Theater, gay men, Questioning sexuality, Mental health, Chemistry, Graduate student, homosexual men, Princeton University Players (PUP), Theater Intime, Chapel Choir, Queer Graduate Caucus, Clubs/bars, Marriage Equality Movement, LGBT Center, Campus resources, Debbie Bazarsky, Anscombe Society, Coming out, Family acceptance, Polyamory
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned, Depression mentioned, Transphobia mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 12, 2018

Fiona Miller

Miller speaks about her experiences at Princeton as a questioning, and later, out bisexual student. She discusses her participation and later hosting of a group for queer women named Friday Night Thing, her experience coming out to classmates in-person and via Facebook, and her participation in the Pride Alliance and Queer Radicals. She also talks about coming out to her family, her involvement with Terrace eating club, dating within the university's small LGBT community, and working as an LGBT peer educator.

Miller speaks about her experiences at Princeton as a questioning, and later, out bisexual student. She discusses her participation and later hosting of a group for queer women named Friday Night Thing, her experience coming out to classmates in-person and via Facebook, and her participation in the Pride Alliance and Queer Radicals. She also talks about coming out to her family, her involvement with Terrace eating club, dating within the university's small LGBT community, and working as an LGBT peer educator.

Class of 2009

Fiona Miller

Miller speaks about her experiences at Princeton as a questioning, and later, out bisexual student. She discusses her participation and later hosting of a group for queer women named Friday Night Thing, her experience coming out to classmates in-person and via Facebook, and her participation in the Pride Alliance and Queer Radicals. She also talks about coming out to her family, her involvement with Terrace eating club, dating within the university's small LGBT community, and working as an LGBT peer educator.

Miller speaks about her experiences at Princeton as a questioning, and later, out bisexual student. She discusses her participation and later hosting of a group for queer women named Friday Night Thing, her experience coming out to classmates in-person and via Facebook, and her participation in the Pride Alliance and Queer Radicals. She also talks about coming out to her family, her involvement with Terrace eating club, dating within the university's small LGBT community, and working as an LGBT peer educator.

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Tags
Bisexual women, Women, Public school, Black, Biracial, First relationship, Heteronormativity, Creative Writing, Comparative Literature, Spanish and Portuguese, French and Italian, Art History, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Jill Dolan, Questioning sexuality, Coming out, Butler (residential college), Friend acceptance, Long-distance relationship, Family acceptance, LGBT Center, Debbie Bazarsky, Pride Alliance, Friday Night Thing (FNT), Study abroad, Terrace (eating club), Terrace Drag Ball, Black Student Union, Outdoor Action, Cutting hair, Queer Radicals Kiss-In, Sexual Harassment/Assault Advising Resources and Education (SHARE), Peer Educators, Hookups, Residential College Advisor (RCA), Undergraduate
Content Notice
Homophobia mentioned
Interviewed on 

Queer Studies at Princeton

2008 was a watershed moment for LGBT+ studies at Princeton. In three years, Princeton had gone from having very few courses on queer topics to having six new scholars teaching these courses: Margot Canaday, Jill Dolan, Amin Ghaziani, Ricardo Montez, Gayle Salamon, and Stacy Wolf. The LGBT Center held a Queer Studies Celebration and Reception to honor the new faculty and fellows. Provost Chris Eisgruber and Dean of the Faculty David Dobkin both spoke at the event.

2008 was a watershed moment for LGBT+ studies at Princeton. In three years, Princeton had gone from having very few courses on queer topics to having six new scholars teaching these courses: Margot Canaday, Jill Dolan, Amin Ghaziani, Ricardo Montez, Gayle Salamon, and Stacy Wolf. The LGBT Center held a Queer Studies Celebration and Reception to honor the new faculty and fellows. Provost Chris Eisgruber and Dean of the Faculty David Dobkin both spoke at the event.

Queer Studies at Princeton

2008 was a watershed moment for LGBT+ studies at Princeton. In three years, Princeton had gone from having very few courses on queer topics to having six new scholars teaching these courses: Margot Canaday, Jill Dolan, Amin Ghaziani, Ricardo Montez, Gayle Salamon, and Stacy Wolf. The LGBT Center held a Queer Studies Celebration and Reception to honor the new faculty and fellows. Provost Chris Eisgruber and Dean of the Faculty David Dobkin both spoke at the event.

2008 was a watershed moment for LGBT+ studies at Princeton. In three years, Princeton had gone from having very few courses on queer topics to having six new scholars teaching these courses: Margot Canaday, Jill Dolan, Amin Ghaziani, Ricardo Montez, Gayle Salamon, and Stacy Wolf. The LGBT Center held a Queer Studies Celebration and Reception to honor the new faculty and fellows. Provost Chris Eisgruber and Dean of the Faculty David Dobkin both spoke at the event.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 

Debbie Bazarsky

Bazarsky talks about her work as the director of the LGBT center at Princeton from 2001 through 2014. She discusses working with program coordinators (Matt Carcella, Matthew Armstead, and Andy Cofino) and student leaders from the Pride Alliance and LGBT Task Force to organize the center and highlights financial and social support from the alumni group Fund for Reunion, administrative leadership, the Office of Religious, and the Center for Jewish Life. In addition, she speaks on cultivating an open, intersectional space for transgender and asexual students through support groups and meetings. She also discusses the successes and challenges she faced as she enacted changes on a larger institution, specifically from the Anscombe Society and institutional slowness. Finally, she reflects on how she developed her own identity before, during, and after her work at Princeton and her hopes for the future of the center. Other topics include: Organizing the 2013 Every Voice conference and Lavender Graduations.

Bazarsky talks about her work as the director of the LGBT center at Princeton from 2001 through 2014. She discusses working with program coordinators (Matt Carcella, Matthew Armstead, and Andy Cofino) and student leaders from the Pride Alliance and LGBT Task Force to organize the center and highlights financial and social support from the alumni group Fund for Reunion, administrative leadership, the Office of Religious, and the Center for Jewish Life. In addition, she speaks on cultivating an open, intersectional space for transgender and asexual students through support groups and meetings. She also discusses the successes and challenges she faced as she enacted changes on a larger institution, specifically from the Anscombe Society and institutional slowness. Finally, she reflects on how she developed her own identity before, during, and after her work at Princeton and her hopes for the future of the center. Other topics include: Organizing the 2013 Every Voice conference and Lavender Graduations.

Former Staff Member

Debbie Bazarsky

Bazarsky talks about her work as the director of the LGBT center at Princeton from 2001 through 2014. She discusses working with program coordinators (Matt Carcella, Matthew Armstead, and Andy Cofino) and student leaders from the Pride Alliance and LGBT Task Force to organize the center and highlights financial and social support from the alumni group Fund for Reunion, administrative leadership, the Office of Religious, and the Center for Jewish Life. In addition, she speaks on cultivating an open, intersectional space for transgender and asexual students through support groups and meetings. She also discusses the successes and challenges she faced as she enacted changes on a larger institution, specifically from the Anscombe Society and institutional slowness. Finally, she reflects on how she developed her own identity before, during, and after her work at Princeton and her hopes for the future of the center. Other topics include: Organizing the 2013 Every Voice conference and Lavender Graduations.

Bazarsky talks about her work as the director of the LGBT center at Princeton from 2001 through 2014. She discusses working with program coordinators (Matt Carcella, Matthew Armstead, and Andy Cofino) and student leaders from the Pride Alliance and LGBT Task Force to organize the center and highlights financial and social support from the alumni group Fund for Reunion, administrative leadership, the Office of Religious, and the Center for Jewish Life. In addition, she speaks on cultivating an open, intersectional space for transgender and asexual students through support groups and meetings. She also discusses the successes and challenges she faced as she enacted changes on a larger institution, specifically from the Anscombe Society and institutional slowness. Finally, she reflects on how she developed her own identity before, during, and after her work at Princeton and her hopes for the future of the center. Other topics include: Organizing the 2013 Every Voice conference and Lavender Graduations.

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Staff, Lesbian, Femme, White, women, genderqueer, Jewish (ethnicity), Jewish (religion), Consortium for LGBT Higher Education Professionals, Campus resources, Office of Religious Life (ORL), Murray Dodge, Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students (ODUS), Administration, Gay Jeans Day, Gay marriage in Princeton Chapel, Robin Moscato, Susan Packer, Sexual Harassment/Assault Advising Resources and Education (SHARE), Sue Anne Steffey Morrow, Pride Alliance, LGBT Student Services, Aaron Burr Hall, The Closet, LGBT Center, Women’s Center, Third World Center, Kathleen Deignan, Pride Week, Awareness Week, Laurie Hall, Peer Educators, LGBT Task Force, Affinity groups, Ice Cream Social, Welcome Back BBQ, Non-discrimination policy, Janet Dickerson, Bob Durkee, Shirley Tilghman, Every Voice conference, Center for Jewish Life (CJL), Paul Raushenbush, Jim Diamond, Alison Boden, Sohaib Sultan, Vineet Chander, Amanda Sandoval, Carl A. Fields Center (CAF), Gabe Barrett, Sue Dyer, Jan Runkle, Chad Klaus, Kris Kersley, Figi Sklar, John Su, Blue Goodall, Elise Wright, Matt Carcella, Frist Campus Center, GAP Lending Library, Lavender Graduation, Gender affirming care, Activism, LGBT Activism, Andy Cofino, Queering the Color Line, Michele Minter, Christopher Eisgruber, Transgender Week of Remembrance and Joy
Content Notice
Xenophobia mentioned, Homophobia mentioned, Transphobia mentioned, Anti-Semitism mentioned, Racism mentioned, Sexual violence mentioned, Suicide mentioned, Heterosexism mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 20, 2018

Matthew Armstead

Armstead speaks about his experiences with racism and homophobia as a child and being outed in high school. After discussing his attendance at Swarthmore college, he elaborates on his arrival to Princeton as the LGBT Program Coordinator through alumni connections. He describes his experience as a Black, queer employee and the ways he connected with and aided students or other staff through community events. In addition, he mentions his involvement in direct action groups and the LGBT Consortium for Higher Education Professionals and the group's later involvement with the Obama administration.

Armstead speaks about his experiences with racism and homophobia as a child and being outed in high school. After discussing his attendance at Swarthmore college, he elaborates on his arrival to Princeton as the LGBT Program Coordinator through alumni connections. He describes his experience as a Black, queer employee and the ways he connected with and aided students or other staff through community events. In addition, he mentions his involvement in direct action groups and the LGBT Consortium for Higher Education Professionals and the group's later involvement with the Obama administration.

Staff

Matthew Armstead

Armstead speaks about his experiences with racism and homophobia as a child and being outed in high school. After discussing his attendance at Swarthmore college, he elaborates on his arrival to Princeton as the LGBT Program Coordinator through alumni connections. He describes his experience as a Black, queer employee and the ways he connected with and aided students or other staff through community events. In addition, he mentions his involvement in direct action groups and the LGBT Consortium for Higher Education Professionals and the group's later involvement with the Obama administration.

Armstead speaks about his experiences with racism and homophobia as a child and being outed in high school. After discussing his attendance at Swarthmore college, he elaborates on his arrival to Princeton as the LGBT Program Coordinator through alumni connections. He describes his experience as a Black, queer employee and the ways he connected with and aided students or other staff through community events. In addition, he mentions his involvement in direct action groups and the LGBT Consortium for Higher Education Professionals and the group's later involvement with the Obama administration.

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Tags
Staff, Queer men, Black, Queer, men, Christian, Religious school, Harassment, Activism, Reproductive justice, Questioning sexuality, Campus resources, Forced outing, Affinity groups, LGBT Activism, QIV Conference, Queering the Color Line, Discrimination, Peer Educators, Black activism, HIV/AIDS activism, Reunions, Occupy Movements, Socioeconomic inequality, Consortium for LGBT Higher Education Professionals, Gay marriage legalized, Obama Administration, Shirley Tilghman, Jill Dolan, Jen Rexford, Amanda Sandoval, Kathleen Deignan, Administration
Content Notice
Slur, Homophobia mentioned, Transphobia mentioned, Sexual harassment mentioned, Sexism mentioned, Racism mentioned
Interviewed on 
July 17, 2019

Gender-Neutral Housing

On October 14, 2009, Vice President for Campus Life Janet Dickerson announced that the University had approved gender-neutral rooms in Spelman for 2010-2011. The program has continued and has now widened to include gender-neutral rooms in residential colleges.

On October 14, 2009, Vice President for Campus Life Janet Dickerson announced that the University had approved gender-neutral rooms in Spelman for 2010-2011. The program has continued and has now widened to include gender-neutral rooms in residential colleges.

Gender-Neutral Housing

On October 14, 2009, Vice President for Campus Life Janet Dickerson announced that the University had approved gender-neutral rooms in Spelman for 2010-2011. The program has continued and has now widened to include gender-neutral rooms in residential colleges.

On October 14, 2009, Vice President for Campus Life Janet Dickerson announced that the University had approved gender-neutral rooms in Spelman for 2010-2011. The program has continued and has now widened to include gender-neutral rooms in residential colleges.

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Content Notice
Interviewed on 
Princeton LGBTQIA+ Oral History Project

2010s & Onward

19 Interviews
8 Archive Entries
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