True Colors 20

Transcription

True Colors 20

Values
True Colors, Inc. Mission, Vision & Values
True Colors works to create a world where youth of all sexual orientations and gender identities are valued
True Colors works to create a world where youth, adults and families of all sexual orientations and gender
identities are valued and affirmed. We challenge all forms of oppression through education, training,
advocacy, youth leadership development, mentoring and direct services to youth & those responsible for their
well-being.
We expect every participant, presenter and volunteer to live by these values while at the conference
1) Inclusion
 You are welcome and valued here! We will do everything we can to make sure you feel included –
and we ask that you do the same for everyone that you meet today.
2) Respect
 We respect ourselves and each other; respect each other’s privacy, personal space, and right to be
safe at True Colors functions. We respect the space. We clean up after ourselves.
 SOME IMPORTANT REMINDERS ABOUT GENDER: People identify many different ways: GRRL, BOI,
Stud, Aggressive, Masculine female, Fem man, Butch, CisGender, Transgender and lots, lots, more.
 Don’t ASSUME you know a person’s gender
 Genitals and Gender are NOT the same thing
 WRITE YOUR PREFERRED PRONOUNS ON YOUR NAMETAG
 READ – AND USE – THE PREFERRED PRONOUNS ON OTHER PEOPLE’S NAMETAGS
 If you don’t know which pronouns someone prefers, either ask or use the person’s name, or
use descriptive statements like, “the person in the red shirt”
 Every attendee has the right to use the bathroom that reflects their gender identity or where
they feel most comfortable. We ask that you respect the decisions other attendees make
regarding their bathroom use; it is up to an individual to decide which bathroom is best for
them.
 Don’t ask questions about people’s body parts, use of hormones, surgery or other transitioning
mechanisms unless you are invited to do so
3) Safety
 There will be NO alcohol, illegal drugs or sexual contact of any kind at the conference or
conference activities including the dance and drag show.
 TC believes that sexual contact between adults and youth is never okay, regardless of the situation.
In addition to the relative age of individuals, we consider an imbalance of power and authority to be
an important factor. Sexual contact is not appropriate or acceptable if one person, regardless of
age, has or is perceived to have significantly more power or authority than the other person.
By attending the True Colors conference, all participants agree to abide by these values and policies.
Any person(s) who violate them will be asked to leave the conference and may be prosecuted to the
fullest extent allowed by law.
Cover design by Jason Tillotson, info@jasontillotson.com
True Colors 20: Celebrating Our Heroes
Table of Contents
Mission/Vision/Values
Please Read for Important Information
Inside Cover
Building Abbreviations
page 1
Conference at a Glance
page 2
Conference Rules and Policies
Please Read for Important Information
page 3
Continuing Education Credits/Units Information
page 4
LUNCH Information
page 4
Organizers & Volunteers
page 5
Thursday
Pages
Thursday Agenda
page 6
Thursday Opening Session
9:00 - Noon
page 6
Thursday Lunch
Noon – 12:45 p.m.
SU Ballroom 331
Thursday Afternoon Workshops
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
page 7
Thursday Closing
4:15 - 5:00 p.m.
page 8
Friday
Pages
Friday Agenda
page 9
Friday Opening Session
9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
page 10
Friday, Mandatory Session for Youth Under 16
10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
page 10
Friday Session I Descriptions
10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
page 11 - 17
Friday Double Sessions
1:15 - 4:00 p.m.
page 17
Friday Workshop Session II Descriptions
1:15 - 2:30 p.m.
page 17 - 25
Friday Workshop Session III Descriptions
2:45 - 4:00 p.m.
page 26 - 32
Friday Closing Description
4:15 - 5:00 p.m.
page 32
Saturday
Pages
Saturday Agenda
page 33
Saturday Opening Session
9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
page 34
Saturday Workshop Session I Descriptions
10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
page 34 - 38
Saturday Double Sessions
1:15 - 4:00 p.m.
page 39
Saturday Workshop Session II Descriptions
1:15 - 2:30 p.m.
page 39 - 43
Saturday Workshop Session III Description
2:45 - 4:00 p.m.
page 44 - 46
Saturday Closing Description
4:15 - 5:30 p.m.
page 47
Saturday Night Drag Show
5:45 - 7:15 p.m.
page 47
Saturday Night Youth Dance
8:00 p.m. - Midnight
page 47
Donors, Co-Sponsors and Supporters
Pages
Conference Co-Sponsors and Donors
page 48 - 49
Resource Room Vendors and Tables
page 50 - 52
Presenter Bios and Contact information
page 52 - 71
Supporters and Advertisers
page 72 - 89
1
Workshop Locations
True Colors Conference 20 Map
There is also a map insert in your package
BUSN
SU
JORG
LH
School of Business
Student Union
Jorgensen Theater
Laurel Hall (behind the Student Union)
GENTRY
School of Education (behind the Student Union)
NWRH
Northwest Residence Hall (NW lunch)
N
All of the Cultural Centers are in the
Student Union on the 4th Floor
North Dining Hall (N lunch)
(AACC) African American
(WC) Women’s Center
(RC) Rainbow Center
(PRLACC) Puerto Rican/Latin American
SU = Student Union
BUSN = School of Business
YOUTH ONLY = 18 And Under
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
Gentry = NEAG Education
PROF = Adult
2
Conference at a Glance
True Colors 20
March 21- 23, 2013, University of Connecticut, Storrs
CONFERENCE AT A GLANCE
Thursday
Registration:
Keynote:
Lunch:
Afternoon Session:
Close:
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
9:00 – Noon
Noon – 1:00 p.m.
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
4:15 – 5:00 p.m.
Student Union Ballroom 331
School of Business
Friday
Registration:
Opening Session
Workshop Session l:
Lunch:
Workshop session II:
Workshop Session III:
Close:
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
9:00 – 10:15 a.m.
10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Noon – 1:00 p.m.
1:15 – 2:30 p.m.
2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
4:15 – 5:00 p.m.
Jorgensen Theater
Jorgensen Theater
Various buildings
North & Northwest Dining Halls
Various buildings
Various buildings
Jorgensen Theater
Saturday
Registration:
Opening Session
Workshop Session l:
Lunch:
Workshop session II:
Workshop Session III:
Close:
Drag Show
Dance
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
9:00 – 10:15 a.m.
10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Noon – 1:00 p.m.
1:15 – 2:30 p.m.
2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
4:15 – 5:30 p.m.
6:00 – 7:30 p.m
8:00 – Midnight
SU = Student Union
Student Union Theater
Various buildings
Various buildings
Various buildings
Ballroom
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
3
Ground Rules and Expectations
CONFERENCE GROUND RULES/POLICIES AND EXPECTATIONS
RECORDING DEVICES, tape recorders, etc. are not allowed in any workshop for any reason without explicit
prior permission. Violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent allowed by law. In addition, violators
may also be liable in a civil action for invasion of privacy.
RESPECT: Please clean up after yourself!
YOUTH ONLY SPACE: Youth Only Space is restricted to high school, junior high and/or middle school youth.
Adults should expect to be asked to leave if they intrude . College only workshops are restricted to those
who are currently in college, regardless of age.
BATHROOMS: True Colors policy is that all bathrooms are gender neutral. We invite all participants to use
the facility in which they feel the most comfortable.
WORKSHOP SIZE LIMITATIONS: IF ALL THE CHAIRS ARE FILLED, CHOOSE ANOTHER WORKSHOP.
SAFETY: All True Colors youth events are alcohol, drug, violence and sexual activity-free spaces. Any
individual who chooses to engage in any of these behaviors during True Colors sponsored activities or events
will be asked to leave. Reach out to a TLC if you need help in staying drug, alcohol, violence and sex free.
TLC (TENDER LOVING CARE) COUNSELORS: Throughout the conference you will see young people with
special TLC arm bands. They are available anytime you want to touch base with someone or take some
private “time out space” or just want to talk. Supervisors are on-call if needed.
TLCs ARE MANDATED REPORTERS. That means that if you tell them something that makes them think you
are being abused or that you are a danger to yourself or others, they MUST report it to the supervisor who
MUST report it to the proper authorities.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
4
Continuing Education Units Information
CEU & Lunch Information
TC 20 “Mall”/ Resource Room: Located on the First Floor of the Student Union, the
resource mall includes lots of information, cool stuff to buy, and many new people to meet! Be sure to
check it out!
Continuing Education Units or Credits (CEU/CECs):
If you are requesting CEUs or CECs, please make sure you:
a. Sign in and out of workshops
b. Fill out and drop off your CEU/CEC REQUEST FORM in the box labeled “CEUs” in the
Resource Room or at the Information Desk.
c. YOU MUST DROP OFF THE FORM IN ORDER TO RECEIVE YOUR CEUs.
Lunch: If you didn’t pre-register in time to pre-order lunch, some options in the food court in the Student Union
will be open to allow you to purchase lunch on your own.
For pre-registered folks who purchased lunch tickets, lunches will be provided as follows.
Thursday: Lunch is included in the cost of registration and will be provided in the Student
Union Ballroom, which is located on the 3rd floor.
FRIDAY: Hot lunches will be provided on Friday from 11:45– 1:15 p.m. in one of two
locations. The Northwest Dining Hall is located across the street past the Math and Science
Building. North Dining Hall is located further up the road from Northwest. Look for signs! A
shuttle bus will run between the Student Union and the Lunch Halls from 11:45 – 1:15 p.m.
SATURDAY: Boxed lunches will be provided in the Student Union Ballroom, which is located
on the 3rd floor.
Additional Funding for this activity was made possible in part by the HHS, Office on Women's Health. The views
expressed in written materials or publications and by speakers and moderators at HHS-sponsored conferences, do not
necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does the mention of trade
names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
5
Volunteers and Organizers
Thank you to the University of Connecticut Programs and Organizations whose contributions made the
conference possible:
UCONN Rainbow Center
UCONN School of Business
UCONN NEAG School of Education
Puerto Rican and Latin American Cultural Center
UCONN Events Management
UCONN School of Nursing
African American Cultural Center
Women’s Center
Special Thanks to:
Fleurette King and William Hickman of the UCONN Rainbow Center
Debi Freund from DCF as well as Kate Copeland from UCONN Events Management
THE ORGANIZERS:
Conference Staff: Robin McHaelen, MSW, Executive Director; Lea Dantz, Office Administrator; Kamora Herrington, Mentoring
Program Coordinator; Alison Berk, Group Activities Coordinator; Patrick McGuire, GSA Coordinator
Interns: Lindsay Crebase, Karla Figuereo, Carolyn, Jeff Lentz; Anna Morrow, Joe Pinney; Elsa Reyes; Krista Stepansky; Jackie Taylor
Conference Organizing Committee: Kimberly Adamski; Kyler Aaron; Maria Afouxenides; Nicole Beno; Will Burk; Raymond Clark; Gary
Danforth; Elia D’onofrio; Jennifer Donnelly; Kelsey Dutta; Holly Fontana; Sheri Garcia; Robin Gazza; Reece Green; Gia Guillen; Emily
Hankla; Allie King; Jennifer King; Sarah Levine; Aaron Lynch; Julie Maynard; Rosenn Muro; Glenn Murphy; Krissy Palacios-Baughman;
Joseph Pinney; Michelle Polek; Chiedza Rodriguez; Liz Spremulli-Gray; Mario Silva; Michelle Smith; Emily Stassen; Rebecca Taylor
Volunteer Coordinators: Raymond Clark; Will, Roseann Muro
Information Desk: Robin Gazza
Alternative Spring Break Participant volunteers: Faithlynn Morris (Trip Director), Ricky Holtz, Rachel Litvin, Wei Xu, Laura
Muro, Allan Dotson, Mallory Tober, Parker Wilcox, Jie Fu, Alex Maloney, Elizabeth Harmon, Emily Stassen, and Elise Guidry
Sign Language Interpreter Coordinator: Holly Fontana
Technology & Entertainment Diva: Barbara Curry
Day of Conference Volunteers:
Jaclyn Alessio; Gabriel Atchison; Luz Avila; Em Axthelm; Cheryl Bailey; Chloe Balch; Frank Ball; Marty Barracato; Andrea
Basney; Kathy Beck; PJ Brackett; Cameron Branco; Michael Brockett; Victoria Bruno; Elliott Buelter; William Burk; Danielle Calabrese; Ceceila Cannavo; Timothy Carson;
Elizabeth Chaterdon; Anya Chatfield; Sandy Chrzanowski; Fay Clarity; Edward Corey; Christian Crespo; Crystal Cruz-Crespo; Elia D’Onofrio; Hazel Delacruz; Jack Dineen;
Matthew Durfee; Tony Estevez; Jason Ferri; Wileizka Flores; Jesus Fonseca; Susan Gill; Alden Goodwin; Jessica Grzelak; Joan Gurski; Anne Haggerty; Stephanie Hall;
Michael Halloran; Tyler Hargis; Megan Hendel; Jane Hoang; Emily Hokanson; Barrington Hunter; Sarah Ingram; Korin Jack; Kian Jacobs; Sabina Johnson; Jackie Kalajainen;
Julie Karliner; Regina Karr; Dylan Kearney; Jacqueline Keen; Shannon Kelly; Jake Keyes; Lauryn LaBella; Rebekah Lamb; Maggie Lamson; Nina Lawrence; Daniel Lazar;
Tucker Le; Nicole Lembo; Lorraine Libby; Cate Lucewicz; Ja Luther; Karen Luther; Aaron Lynch; Erik Mar; Lauren Marsh; Iris Martinez; Courtney Martise; Alicia Mayers;
Julie Maynard; Alissa McNulty; Alexandra Millan; Alyssa Mitchell; Scott Mueller; Mary Mulero; Grace Musante; Shaylin Myers; Kayleigh O’Reilly; Cari Oliveira; Arielle
Outlaw; Kristine Palacios-Baughman; Marsha Philitas; Mareika Phillips; Monique Poitier; Michelle Polek; Daniel Prouty; Matt Reutter; Lee Ann Roberts; Alexandra
Robertson; Chiedza Rodriguez; Veronica Rogers; Chavela Rosado; Zoe Rose; Nick Rossetti; Ellen Roth; Geena Russo; Nancy Salk; Tamanique Scruse; Chris Seery; Kate
Sensenich; Claire Serenska; James Shea; Jason Sheenan; Kyle Shekinah; Jodi Silverman; Jaime-Lyn Sinopoli; Michelle Smith; Nicholas Smith; Myles Snyder; Ashley Swain;
Christina Thompson; Kim Thorne-Kaunelis; Amanda Tomecko; Amanda Torres; Myra Valentino; Sarah Vertefeuille; Michael Watson; Matthew Whitaker; Amber Fae
Wilcox; Wilquasia Wilson; Liz Winter; Stacia Wright; Christa Wurm; Clara Young
Special Thanks to those folks whose donations made it possible for so many youth to come to the conference on reduced
fees or scholarships:
Fern Berman Scholarship Fund
Viktor Jakab
SU = Student Union
Mountain Laurel School
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
Sandra Williams
PROF = Adult
6
Volunteers and Organizers
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Agenda
Registration
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
3rd Floor Student Union
331 Ballroom
Opening Session
9:00 – Noon
331 Ballroom
Lunch
Noon – 12:45 p.m.
331 Ballroom
Afternoon Workshops
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
School of Business
Closing, Evaluations, CEUs
4:15: 5:00 p.m.
331 Ballroom
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Keynote Session
Welcoming Ceremonies:
Robin P. McHaelen, True Colors Executive Director
Jane Clementi
An Evidenced Based Model of Wellness, Prevention & Care for LGBT Children & Adolescents
Internationally known researcher and clinician, Caitlyn Ryan, LCSW, Ph.D.’s research makes it clear
that a family response to a youth’s coming out has a significant impact on his/her well-being. Dr.
Ryan’s presentation will explore the current focus of her work: the first evidence based family model
of wellness, prevention and care for LGBT youth with an emphasis on supporting ethnically and
religiously diverse families. In 2002, Dr. Ryan started the Family Acceptance Project (FAP) at San
Francisco State University to study the impact of family acceptance and rejection on the health,
mental health and well-being of LGBT youth, including depression, suicide, HIV, substance use, selfesteem and well-being. This research includes the first comprehensive study of how families adjust and adapt when adolescents
identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender during adolescence. In addition, the FAP recently released the first evidence-based
model of suicide prevention for LGBT youth.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
7
Thursday Afternoon Workshop Choices
Thursday, March 21, 2013, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Afternoon Workshop Choices
Professional Audience
BUSN 112
Authentic from the Inside Out: Working with Transgender Youth
and Their Parents
While more and more youth are questioning their gender identity, clinicians are often reluctant to evaluate them, especially
those who identify as transgender. In this workshop, we hope to demystify and normalize the process, and help professionals
find and use the resources available to them. First, Carole MacKenzie will help you understand how transgender identity
emerges in adolescence. She will present an overview of the components included in a comprehensive evaluation of a
transgender teenager’s mental health and gender identity. Next, Irwin Krieger will present his approach to family therapy,
focusing on the balance between authenticity and safety in the lives of transgender teens. Gaining a clear understanding of
their teen’s gender identity helps parents address their fears and concerns. This paves the way for appropriate decisions about
transition steps. We welcome questions throughout our workshop. Irwin Krieger, MSW, LCSW; Carole Mackenzie, LCSW
BUSN 122
Coming Out & Self-Acceptance in Co-Occurring Mental Illness:
A Treatment Model
Sexual identity develops as an interactive process between the individual and the environment (family, school, community
systems). A large body of literature suggests LGBT youth and young adults have a higher prevalence of mental health disorders
than their heterosexual peers. Findings from these studies highlight the necessity to provide interventions that target the
specific needs of LGBT youth. A intensive outpatient treatment model that addresses the specific needs of LGBT young adults
is proposed to start at the Institute of Living in the Fall of 2013. This innovative program, based on the framework of Stage
Models of Coming Out and Adolescent Identity Formation will be previewed. Laura M. I. Saunders, Psy.D. ABPP
BUSN 202
Gender and Sexual Minority Youth: Clinical Competence
and Practice Considerations
This workshop is designed to help participants increase understanding, knowledge, and cultural competency when working
with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) and other gender/sexual minority-identified youth. The workshop will explore
both the risks and challenges as well as protective factors and strengths specific to the mental health treatment frames for
gender and sexual minority youth. In addition, the workshop will consider the similarities and differences within a
developmental framework when approaching the treatment frames for these youth. Scott Leibowitz, MD
BUSN 203
Look for the Trauma Underneath the LGBTQI
In treating the sexual and gender minority youth in the child welfare system, issues of sexuality may become the focus to the
exclusion of other important factors. Early neglect, trauma and attachment disruptions can affect the youth’s brain and
biology. Lack of trust, a constant sense of danger and inadequate feelings management skills can complicate the youth’s
positive growth. Learn effective techniques to address the trauma while supporting sexual health. Patricia Wilcox, LCSW
BUSN 204
Sexual Taboos: Discussing Difficult Topics in Sexuality
In this workshop, facilitators will guide a discussion on barriers, difficulties, and concerns for having conversations with youth
about difficult or sensitive topics. Sensitive and/or difficult topics may include, but are not limited to, discussions on sexual
acts, pain, pleasure, working within state laws, professional personal disclosure, personal comfort and discomfort, etc.
Research by Milton (2003) showed educators having difficulties with questions such as “is ‘x’ behavior okay,” “when is it okay
to engage in certain sexual acts,” inclusions of guardians in conversations, and knowing how to navigate boundaries.
Participants will share past experiences and brainstorm possible avenues to navigate conversations. Although facilitators can
discuss possible techniques, the conversation will be guided by a contextual framework. Facilitators will also provide a local
resources handout. Paola Chanes-Mora, B.A.; Tara Lutz, B.A.; Joleen M. Nevers, MAEd, CHES, CSE
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
8
Thursday Closing Session
BUSN 211
Talking to young people about sexuality
This training provides valuable information, ideas, opportunities for dialogue, and tools/skills so that adults in young people’s
lives can help youth make responsible and sexually healthy decisions. Erin Livensparger, Sarah Pigg
BUSN 215
What are you doing in this bathroom? A Sexuality & Gender Diversity
Training Program
"What are you doing in this bathroom?" is an interactive and experiential workshop based on the book, "A Sexuality and
Gender Diversity Training Program." The workshop is geared toward introducing selected modules from this effective training
program that can be utilized with school staff in order to increase their awareness of diversity issues in schools and how to
effectively work with diverse students. James DiPisa, Ph.D.; Rebekah Jackson, Psy.D.
BUSN 218
Youth Who Are LGBT and Youth Affected by Disorders or Differences
of Sex Development: Information, Strategies, and Resources to
Enhance Supports and Services
This best practices institute will consist of two core components: standards of care for serving LGBT youth and youth affected
by disorders or differences of sex development (DSD). Participants will first learn about Federal efforts related to LGBT youth,
in particular those of the Child, Adolescent and Family Branch (CAFB) within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration's activities. Next, participants will complete, reflect on, and discuss a self-assessment tool to reflect on their
practices related to LGBT youth. Participants will then learn about 10 standards of care from a recently published book,
Improving Emotional and Behavioral Outcomes for LGBT Youth: A Guide for Professionals. As an example of these standards of
care, approximately half of the institute will focus on DSD in-depth. For educators, physicians, clinicians, caseworkers, or other
youth advocates it is important to simultaneously acknowledge each individual’s unique story while following best practices for
the treatment of DSD. The end of this session will include time for large-group discussion, which will provide an opportunity to
discuss related research or training needs, as well as potential future supports/collaboration that would be beneficial in
participants’ communities. Matthew Malouf, Ph.D., M.Ed. Jeffrey Poirier, M.A.
THURSDAY CLOSING
Student Union, Ballroom 331
4:15 – 5:00 PM
The Professional Best-Practices Institute will end with a closing
discussion and program evaluation in the ballroom.
All attendees needing Continuing Education Certificates as well as all
DCF employees are required to attend the closing.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
9
Friday Agenda
Friday, March 22, 2013
Agenda
Registration
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
(Volunteer & Presenter Registration is in the STUDENT UNION on the 1st floor)
Jorgensen
Opening Session
9:00 – 10:15 a.m.
Jorgensen
Featuring Daniel Trust, motivational speaker and survivor of the Rwandan Genocide
Session I
10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Various Locations *
Lunch
11:45 to 1:15 p.m.
North or Northwest
Dining Halls
Session II
1:15 to 2:30 p.m.
Various Locations *
Session III
2:45 to 4:00 p.m.
Various Locations *
Closing Activities/Performance
4:15 – 5:00 p.m.
Featuring Fresh Fruit Award winning comedian, Kelli Dunham
Jorgensen
*See workshop descriptions for specific locations
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
10
Friday Opening Session
Friday, March 22, 2013
Schedule and Descriptions
Welcoming Ceremonies:
Robin P. McHaelen, True Colors Executive Director
Fleurette King, Director, UCONN Rainbow Center
Susan Herbst, President, University of Connecticut
Kevin Lembo, State Comptroller
Beth Dye, State Senator
Nancy Humphries, UCONN School of Social Work
Daniel Trust, now 23, is an American motivational speaker and survivor of the 1994 Rwandan
Genocide that killed between 800k & 1 million Hutus and Tutsis.
Ryan Amador is a singer/songwriter from Brooklyn, NY
Fern Berman is a marketing consultant, artist and photographer. As the
namesake and primary funding source for the Fern Berman Scholarship, Fern is
also responsible for helping many schools attend the conference.
Infamous Squad: a hip hop dance group that consists of youth between the ages of 12 and 18 years old from Waterbury
High Schools and the surrounding community. This year’s dancers include: Rashon Mourning; Dashyra Camp; Yamilex
Ayala; Rebecca Saunders and Rose Martel. The group’s leader and director is Shaneka Hernandez.
Friday Session I
10:30 - 11:45 AM
Various Locations
All First-Time Attendees 16-And-Under
MUST ATTEND This Session
Crossing The Middle Ground: SU 330/331
Returning High School and Middle School Youth attendees are also welcome to attend!
Back by popular demand for 6 years running. Mandatory workshop for first time conference goers and
students 16 and under. Come celebrate our differences in this highly interactive and fun workshop
designed specifically for YOU. While gaining a deep sense of camaraderie and connectedness with other
conference participants, you will be deeply engaged in conversations about your individuality and
uniqueness and how it actually benefits your ability to be an ally for yourself and others. Cross The
Middle Ground and delve into a world that will reach far beyond your fears and doubts!
www.crossingthemiddleground.com John Boiano
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
11
Friday Session I: 10:30 – 11:45 AM
BUSN 112
A Spectrum of Assurance: Create Confidence and Safe Spaces for Students
Want to know how to help create an open and affirming classroom? Want to know how to transform your school into a safe
space for all people? Teachers and students from Classical Magnet School will present on how to help schools become more
open, affirming, accepting, and resourceful for parents, students, and teachers in the LGBTQS community. Classical has two
very large "Safe Space" programs (GSAs) and has over 80% student and teacher participation in the National Day of Silence.
This workshop is designed to help other teachers and school staff create an atmosphere like that of Classical's.
Tiffany Moyer-Washington, MA -
General Audience
SU THEATER
Anyone and Everyone (Film and Discussion)
Connected by having a son or daugheter who is gay, a religiously, racially and ethnically diverse parents across the country
discuss their experiences in the documentary, Anyone and Everyone. The film will be followed by a facilitated discussion.
Ned Ruete
Youth Only
SU 416A
Apples to Apples
A Self-Facilitated Discussion (you run it!) using the game, Apples to Apples as a conversation starter Self-Facilitated
BUSN 204
Being Out in the Classroom
While teachers have legal workplace protections in Connecticut, many teachers and social workers are not so comfortable
with being "out" in the classroom. Come discuss your experiences with colleagues. Tracey Wilson, PhD
General Audience
SU 304C
Bisexuality 101 and Beyond
What does it mean to identify as bisexual, pansexual or fluid? What are some of the challenges to recognizing and
understanding this often overlooked segment of the LGBTQ community? However you identify, come to this lively and
interactive program if you could use some tools for challenging ignorance and biphobia. Robyn Ochs, MA
General Audience
LH 108
Bromance : It's Guy Love Between Two Guys
What do you think of when you hear the term "Bromance?" Does affection between two straight males threaten their
heterosexuality? Are "Bromance" relationships a step in a positive direction of accepting male-male affection? Are
"Bromance" relationships homophobic? This workshop will dissect male-male relationship styles and how they intersect
with ideas of masculinity and societal influence. Critical group discussion will offer commentary on female-female
relationships as well as the tokenized "Gay Best Friend" identity. This interactive workshop will feature media from shows
such as Scrubs, Will & Grace, and Bravo's Real Housewives. Paul Grabowski, BA
Activist Institute
LH 106
Craftivism 101: Creating Change Through Public Art
You are loved. You are not alone. It gets better. Stick around to see it. There is only one you. Knit Tagging is a form of graffiti
using hand knit or crocheted textiles to bring color and a lighthearted quality to drab, every day landscapes. People of all ages,
genders, and nationalities are expressing themselves creatively through this art form. Riot Prrl (a knitters' league for positive
mischief based in Northampton, MA) will show examples of their own projects, teach you how to use knit tagging to create
change and discussion on your campus or in your local area, and assist participants in creating and installing their own positive
messages on UConn's campus. No knitting, crocheting, or crafting experience necessary! Katie Flynn, BA; Rachel Michael, BS;
Brie Sullivan, BA
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
12
General Audience
LH 109
Enforcing Gender Identity and Expression Non-Discrimination Laws
This interactive workshop discusses gender identity and expression and identifies existing areas of law that are impacted by
gender identity protection. Join us for a fun, entertaining, and informative presentation. Vickie Henry, JD
BUSN 202
Experiences of LGBT Youth in Juvenile Detention
A disproportionate number of LGBT youth who go through the juvenile justice system end up encountering discrimination
and abuse. This short IN THE LIFE video features the stories of young people who share their journeys of going through ill
equipped correctional institutions as well as the voices of advocates who are fighting for change. The film also takes a look
at the consequences youth face for not conforming to gender "appropriate" dress and behavior in their homes and
schools. The film will be followed by a facilitated discussion. Inez Eaton, MSW
College
BUSN 218
Finding Room for the Rainbow on a Brown and White campus: A Case
Study of an LGBTQIA Center in a Conservative Climate.
Three panelists will share their experiences running a campus LGBTQIA center within a conservative university climate,
focusing on ways other students can advocate for & maintain similar services on their campuses. Aubrey, Matt and Will have
all worked as the graduate assistant in Lehigh University’s Rainbow Room, passing the torch to the next. Collectively they have
witnessed its evolution from a small space run by part-time staff and volunteers to a fully-staffed multicultural center with a
solid presence on campus. The panel will focus on specific time points and document the goals, challenges and growth of this
college LGBTQIA center over the last decade. Following this, the panelists will lead audience members in break-out group
discussions on how to apply this case-study to their own settings, assisting them in identifying their unique goals, challenges
and avenues for growth. Aubrey DeCarlo, BA; Matthew Malouf, Ph.D; R. William Valliere, B.A.
General Audience
SU WOMEN'S CENTER
Finding the Voice You Want
This workshop is meant for all those trying to find their feminine or masculine voices. It is presented by an experienced speech
pathologist. After a brief introduction participants will explore their own relationship to their voice through individual and
group activity. Alida Engel; Kendra Rosenblatt, LMHC, MFT
General Audience
SU RAINBOW CENTER
Graduating with Rainbows: How to Determine LGBTQIA-Friendly Colleges
Participants will learn about the function and purpose for the University of Connecticut Rainbow Center (RC). As one of 5
cultural centers, the RC provides advocacy, resources, information, social activities, educational programs and a facility
designated to the diversity of sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions. UConn students will talk about
the impact of the Rainbow Center and participants will tour the 3,800 sq. ft center, even though it serves as the True Color
Conference headquarters and volunteer space. Participants will discuss programs and policies that aid to the success of
LGBTQQIA students, including heterosexual allies. High school students, parents, and advisors will obtain factors and resources
to look for a LGBTQ–friendly college campus. Kelly Garrett; Fleurette King
General Audience
LH 201
He Continues to Make a Difference: The Story of Matthew Shepard
In October 1998, Matthew Shepard, a gay college student attending the University of Wyoming, was kidnapped, robbed,
beaten, tied to a fence, and left to die. He was discovered after 18 hours had passed and died 5 days later with his family at his
side. Lesléa Newman was the Gay Awareness Week keynote speaker at the University of Wyoming that year, and arrived on
campus the day Matthew died. Using photographs, poetry from her book OCTOBER MOURNING: A SONG FOR MATTHEW
SHEPARD, and guided visualization, Lesléa Newman explores the impact of Matt's murder on the world, and shows how each
one of us can make a difference to create a safe world for all, and carry on Matthew Shepard's legacy. Lesléa Newman, B.S.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
13
Youth Only
SU 318/319
How to create a successful GSA in your school community
Ellis Technical High School students and advisor will guide the audience through steps to take to create and build capacity in
your school community through your GSA. The students will describe first hand how their GSA has helped to change the school
climate in the building and after five years are now one of the most influential clubs in their school community. Jeremiah
Barclay; Jessica Bibeau; Courtney Churchill; Austin Donnelly; Jackie Torres
BUSN 122
How to Start GSAs for People With Mental Health and/or
Substance Abuse Issues?
This workshop will provide guidance for mental health and substance abuse providers on how to start, energize and sustain a
Gay/Straight Alliance at their facilities. Specific instruction on ground rules, topics, activities, events will be provided.
Melissa Bickford, LMFT.; Richard Stillson, PhD.
Youth Only
SU 320
I don't know my sexual orientation
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, oh my! What does sexual orientation mean? How do we deal with not knowing our
sexuality? Am I the only person that feels like this? When will I know my sexual orientation? We will explore our
thoughts/feelings/questions together as a group. By sharing our beliefs and opinions in a supportive way, we can learn more
about ourselves and be inspired by others. Come to laugh, share, and learn about sexual orientation! Tracy Follert
Youth Only
SU 304A
I'm Beautiful Dammit: Talking about Body Image
Beauty is only skin deep? Say what? How can we be happy, creative, productive people without feeling that we should
mirror the “acceptable” images that are forced upon us daily? Let’s discuss the pleasures and pressures of our
obsession with body image. Rose Sullivan, Ph.D.
Youth Only
SU 303
Introduction to Unschooling
There's a whole world of young people thriving outside of traditional school today—and you can join them. In this
workshop you'll be introduced to "unschooling", a radical approach to learning and living that embraces LGBTQ young
people and their allies. Practical Q&A session follows the introduction. Blake Boles, BA
General Audience
LH 202
Is the Bible a Word of Death or Voice of Hope for LGBTQI Folk
Very loud religious voices want to claim the Bible as their justification for hatred and exclusion of LGBTQ people, in the church
and in the world. We will acknowledge the short answer to the question, “Is the Bible the word of death or a voice of hope?”
We will explore first “the voice of hope” then briefly examine the issues of proportionality and selectivity. Finally we will look
at the few specific texts in light of biblical scholarship. Participants will give voice to their hopes for the time, Q&a is welcome
throughout. Participants will be offered handouts created by the presenter for loan or to own. This presentation will equip
participants with necessary resources to offer a welcoming, hopeful understanding of scripture to help LBGTQ people
understand that scripture is not the oppressor, the Bible not the problem. Rev. Alice O'Donovan, B.S., M.A.R.S., M.Div.
College
BUSN 226
Just for Jocks
The locker room -- the last closet door -- is finally cracking open. But it's still not easy coming out, or being out, as a college
athlete. Come share stories and strategies for telling teammates and coaches; deciding how much to interact with the GLBT
community on campus; what to do if a reporter calls, and how to handle the inevitable questions about locker rooms.
Workshop leader Dan Woog writes frequently on LGBT sports issues, and is an openly gay soccer coach (Staples High School,
Westport, CT). Dan Woog, BA
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
14
College
SU 221
Let's Talk About...
So, what topic were you looking to have a discussion about, but didn't find in the schedule? Here's your chance to create your
own. Laura Saunders, Psy.D.
Youth Only
GENTRY 221
Let's Talk About...
This is your chance to talk with other LGBTQ and ally youth about stuff you rarely get a chance to talk about: love, sex,
dating, relationships, where you meet each other, what life is like for you at home, at school, in your community… or
whatever else you want to talk about. This is your time! Joan Gurski
General Audience
SU 312
Living In Two Worlds: LGBTA Individuals Tackle the Paradoxical Outcomes
of Coming Out in the Workplace
Sexuality has long since been a threat to traditional cultural ideologies in the workplace. While some individuals, like the
historic Harvey Milk, came out strong and encouraged others to do the same, to this day people still hide this part of their lives
from their coworkers. There are many reasons this happens – fear of reprisal or dismissal, lack of a support system, and/or
misunderstanding of one’s rights. Stonewall Speakers from the CT Stonewall Foundation will narrate the details of their
experiences coming out (or not) through the courses of their careers. Through stories and discussions of personal and
professional beliefs and risk and empowerment, we will navigate the pros and cons of coming out at work. We will also
strategize how to build support networks for ourselves and our colleagues so working environments are safe, comfortable
places for all. Lauren Chicoski, BS
Youth Only
LH 302
New Identities, New Experiences
As a workshop specifically designed for youth and young adults who can relate to creating a new identity, this workshop
will focus on validating and normalizing the experiences that this change brings. Participants will gain an awareness of the
potential emotional effects that can take place when there's a shift in identity. The workshop facilitators will bring
personal antidotes and experiences in adapting to new identities. This is an interactive, experiential workshop that you
don't want to miss! Evan Hubbard, MSW, LCSW; Laurie Palagyi, LMFT
Youth Only
SU 410
Not in My House: A Space for Unaccompanied Youth
In this workshop youth will get to share their experiences with couch surfing, doubling up and homelessness. Based on
these experiences they will come up with a comprehensive list of demands for resources and support systems that they
believe should exist in their communities for unaccompanied youth. Ashleigh Eubanks, BA
General Audience
LH 110
Parenting our LGBTQ kids
Come join other parents of LGBTQ kids for camaraderie, support, and laughter as we share our stories of the challenges,
surprises, and joys of raising our "different" children. The workshop will be interactive, with plenty of opportunities to
share strategies and resources with other parents as we navigate the world of parenting an LGBTQ child. Lori Davison, MA
General Audience
LH 205
Queers for Jesus: A Workshop on the Relationship between Christianity
& the Queer Community
What does it mean to be both queer and Christian? Are the two, as they are popularly perceived, fundamentally
incompatible? Two queer Christians who have struggled with and reconciled the two share their experiences and present
an overview of the historical and ever-changing relationship between queerness and Christianity, both in Scripture and in
structure, and invite you to share your own. Ryan Popper; Stephanie Zazanis
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
15
General Audience
Gentry 225
Questions You Always Wanted to Ask Your Principal, But Never Thought
You Could
Openly gay high school principal John Dodig (Staples HS, Westport, CT) offers insights into creating an open and affirming
school environment for ALL groups. At Staples, a student wears a "Legalize Gay!" t-shirt without worrying about ridicule.
GLBT staff members feel free being out, while straight allies easily address GLBT issues in the classroom. Athletes and
coaches avoid anti-gay putdowns. In this session, students and educators can brainstorm ideas on how to make their own
school environment more supportive - whether their principal is gay or not! John Dodig, MA
Youth Only
SU 321
Rubberwear
UConn's Rubberwear, a nationally recognized program, is an interactive workshop that addresses safer sex techniques.
Students will be engaged in numerous activities including a lubrication tasting, dental dam and condom demonstrations,
and how to use all of the above correctly to reduce the risk of contracting STIs/STDs and reduce pregnancies. Students will
also have an opportunity to practice techniques through a condom relay. Abstinence will also be respected as a choice
and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!! Paola Chanes-Mora
Youth Only
SU 322
Rubberwear
and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!! Sarah Lindahl, MA
Youth Only
SU 325
Rubberwear
and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!! Joleen M. Nevers, MAEd, CHES, CSE
Youth Only
LH 305
Safe Zone
This workshop is a place where teens can go to meet other teens! Within the workshop, students will explore strategies to
handle bullying and homophobia. Sam will share a video that she created for a school project and students will have the
opportunity to discuss ideas and share their own strategies. Sam Bodian; Shannon Wilcox
Youth Only
SU AFR. AMER. CULTURAL CENTER
Stereotypes
What do you do about stereotypes? What if they aren't your own? Are they ever good? Join Pride Alliance in a discussion
about something we all face. Maddy Kobar; Lauren Lamourine; Isaiah Roby
Youth Only
LH 306
Teen Dating Violence 101
There is a common myth that LGBTQQI couples do not experience dating violence. However, the truth is homosexual
couples experience dating violence at the same rate as heterosexual couples. Dating violence is a complex topic that
effects 1 in 4 teens. Join me in this workshop to learn the sign of an abusive relationship, what you can do to help and
what your dating rights are. Desiree DiLallo, BA
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
16
General Audience
LH 111
The ABCs of LGBTQQIA Life
Being a part of the LGBTQQIA community can be confusing. What do all the letters that represent this community mean?
What about all of those terms I have heard before? Are there more terms than there are letters? Will someone help me?
During this session you will learn about a multitude of LGBTQQIA terms. Additionally, you will learn about famous people who
identify with various sexual orientations and gender identities and expressions. With these definitions and examples you will
learn how important these identities are for you in identifying your own sexual orientation and gender identity and expression
This session will help you understand what all the LGBTQQIA terms mean and how they influence your personal journey during
an activity about the fluidity and importance of your LGBTQQIA identity. Alicia Hartley, MA; Tiago Machado, MA
General Audience
SU 304B
The Coming Out Story of an Orphan from Rwanda
This workshop will present the personal coming out story of Daniel Trust, an orphan and genocide survivor from Rwanda.
Daniel will share with audience his inspiring story of how he survived the genocide in 1994 and managed to escape to the
United States in 2005 as a refugee and eventually become a U.S. citizen. He will give details of how he witnessed the murder of
his mother and how losing his father, mother and two sisters in the war has affected and changed his life. Daniel Trust will also
give a personal account of his personal coming out story. Growing up in a country where homosexuality is a taboo, prohibited,
and where one can receive many years of prison time for being lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Daniel’s childhood was
field with fear , anger, and self-hate but he had hope, hope that one day he would get the freedom to truly express who he is.
Daniel will talk about the many struggles he faced and the reactions he received when he first came out to his best friend,
family and co-workers as being gay in 2010. Daniel Trust
Activist Institute
LH 107
There Ought To Be a Law: An Overview of Legislative Advocacy
This workshop will give an overview of legislative advocacy including how a bill becomes a law, some effective ways of
contacting one's legislators and how to follow the progress of bills through the Connecticut General Assembly website.
Gretchen Vivier, MSW
General Audience
SU 316/317
They said what? They did what?
The audience will enter a description of an event in their lives, an event will be randomly chosen, and the small cast will
play it out. Following the brief skit, the audience will be asked about how they felt watching, what were initial responses,
and how situations might have been handled differently. Kian Jacobs, MSW, LCSW
General Audience
BUSN 227
Thinking Of A Gender Transition? Who Do You Include?
A Conversation About Disclosure Across Generations
Gender transition does not happen in a vacuum. There is constant tension between the transitioning person's privacy,
emotional and physical safety and the necessity of others to be informed. There are the pitfalls and joys of bringing others
along in their own transition. The presenter will offer an overview of some of these issues, then open the discussion in a
structured way so that participants can share and learn and bring more possibilities to the transition process.
Rev. Moonhawk River Stone, M.S., LMHC
BUSN 211
Translation Youth Group Speaks Out!
Transgender youth have a voice that is rarely heard. Members of translation, a support group for transgender teens, share
their stories. The panel hopes to educate the audience and through their stories help the audience realize that trans youth
don’t have gender identity issues --- it is often everyone around them who has an issue with their gender identity.
Tony Ferraiolo, CPC
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
17
General Audience
LH 206
Where Do I Stand?: Using Your Personal Story to Make Schools Safer
At this workshop, we'll engage in a lively discussion of the experiences of LGBTQ students of color and demonstrate how
people can use their own stories to empower and inspire others to make their schools safer. We'll also talk about the
many ways we identify ourselves and explore how our multiple identities intersect. By actively constructing our identities,
we see how our identities are challenged on a daily basis and what we can do to create a more inclusive school
environment for students of color. Roberto Diaz, Julia Goss
BUSN 203
Working with Parents of Transgender and Gender-nonconforming Children
This presentation offers insights into the needs of parents of transgender and gender-nonconforming (TG/GNC) children,
the challenges of working with these parents, and best practices from the perspective of a clinical psychologist and a
parent. Barbara Gurr, PhD; Nancy Meyer-Lustman, Ph.D.
Youth Only
SU PRLACC
Would you rather?
A Self-Facilitated Discussion (you run it!) using the game, Apples to Apples as a conversation starter Self-Faciliated
General Audience
LH 301
Your True Colors: Personal Logo
Design your own personal logo! David Bridges, MAT
Friday Session II & III
General Audience
LH 106
Double Sessions 1:15 - 4:00 p.m.
Various Locations
How to Have Difficult Conversations
Through a combination of acting exercises and conflict resolution models, participants will learn how to be an "active listener"
and will leave with an understanding of what is or isn't working about their communication styles. How can you be a better
communicator? How can you diffuse emotionally charged situations? How can you be truly authentic without giving your
power away? Pun Bandhu, MFA in Acting, Yale University; BA Washington University in St. Louis
GENERAL AUDIENCE
LH 102
TRUST: Second Acts in Young Lives
Film screening & theater games! TRUST is an award-winning film that follows an immigrant teen theater company as they
transform their lives while creating a daring, original play from the real life story of Marlin. Marlin, an 18-year-old Honduran
company member, demonstrates incredible resilience: she endured rape as young girl, survived a harrowing immigration
journey, suffered abuse at the hands of her own brother, and overcame substance addiction. Yet TRUST is a hopeful film
about reclaiming power over one's own life story, and how young people can learn to trust others with their truth. The
screening of TRUST will be followed by fun, creative activities guiding participants to tell stories of their own.
Melina O'Grady; Trina Jackson.
Friday Session II
General Audience
SU 304A
1:15 - 2:30 p.m.
Various Locations
Acting With Courage: "It Gets Better" When We MAKE It Better!
LGBTQ students have the legal right to be out, safe, respected and protected in their schools. But ignorance or noncompliance
with the law, social stigma and feelings of powerlessness often thwart these rights. Teachers, school staff and parents do not
always know the best ways to help their LGBTQ students, and students often do not feel able to effect change. To create a
safe and supportive learning environment for TLGBQ students, adults and youth must be able to challenge bullying and
discrimination. In this workshop for youth and adults, we will discuss students’ rights, some key Lambda Legal victories, the
experiences of TLGBQ students and allies, and realistic strategies for “acting with courage.” Aron Cobbs, BA
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
18
Friday Session II: 1:15 – 2:30 PM
Youth Only
GENTRY 221
Ammo: Facts Against Hate
A fun interactive workshop that will give fact-based responses to typical homophobic arguments. Engage with your peers
through interactive games and peer led discussions. Let’s promote human rights for all by standing up to hate! Sophie Dillon;
Tarpley Hitt; Story Ponvert
General Audience
SU 316/317
Ask the Medical Provider
This will be a moderated discussion involving the audience and a panel of medical professionals who provide hormone
prescription and primary care services to transgender patients. Our objective is to have a free and open exchange of ideas
between providers and interested parties (expected to include transgender-identified individuals as well as family and friends,
other advocates, mental health providers, social agency workers, and other allies). The session is intended to be a give-andtake operating under the recognition that communication is the key to improving quality of care and outcomes for patients as
well as the care experience for providers. We will begin with a set of ground rules about disclosure.
J. Aleah Nesteby, Nurse Practitioner; P. Davis Smith, MD
General Audience
LH 108
Baby, I was born this way! Body Image, The Media,
and why we're beautiful!
In this workshop, we will talk about body image, eating disorders, and why our society tells us that the way we are isn't okay.
This will be an open space for anyone to talk about experiences being an LGBTQ youth (and their allies) and struggling with
body image, and how we can build the self esteem of ourselves and others. This workshop is a combination of activity,
lecture, video, and most importantly, a place to learn from one another! Sophia Buchanan
General Audience
SU 304C
Beyond Binaries: Identity and Sexuality
What does it mean to identify as bisexual (or pansexual or fluid)? What are some of the challenges to recognizing and
understanding this often overlooked segment of the LGBTQ community? However you identify, come to this lively and
interactive program if you could use some tools for challenging ignorance and biphobia. Robyn Ochs, MA
Youth Only
LH 306
Change - It's Not Just What's In Your Pocket
For better or for worse, the only constant thing in our lives is change. Our bodies change, we date and break up, we reimagine
our gender roles, we come out to our families...as LGBTQ youth we complete transitions all the time. In this workshop, we will
together chart the changes that have shaped our lives so far, and look at the lengths we have come to become who we are
today. Looking forward, we’ll check out the roller coaster of emotions that can come as we try to adapt to changes and work
to accept our shifting sense of self. Through deep conversations and fun group activities we will share with you a tool for
managing the chaos of growing up called The Transitions Framework which will help us to learn from all the changes we’ve
gone through so far and become prepared for what’s in store ahead! Jermaine Benton; Christopher Hall
College
BUSN 203
Changing the Tide: Advocating for LGBTQ Friendly Policies
on College Campuses
Are you working to create an LGBTQ Center on your campus? Are you interested in learning how to advocate for gender
neutral housing or inclusive health benefits? This workshop will outline different strategies you can use to advocate for
LGBTQ policy change on your campus. Sample proposals and policies will be provided along with time for discussion about
the issues specific to your campus. Kelly Garrett
General Audience
LH 109
Coming Out in a Brown Family: Homosexuality and Indian Culture
This workshop explores homosexuality in South Asian/Indian culture. We will discuss homosexuality in Hinduism, Sikhism, and
the contrast between the religion’s and the general culture’s views of it. We will also talk about coming out as an Indian in a
brown family. Karishma Jani; Theresa Paquette
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
19
Youth Only
LH 309
Creating the Best GSA
What are the secrets to having the best GSA? What can even a small GSA do to make a big impact? Join Pride Alliance (Eastern
Connecticut State University's GSA) in a discussion on the ways that a GSA can make a large impact in your school.
Amanda Eckert; Lindsay Emblidge; Isaiah Roby
SU 303
Crossing The Middle Ground – from bystanders to allies The Adult Version
This dynamic and highly interactive workshop is designed specifically for adults who are passionate about creating or
deepening a “sustainable” positive and supportive youth culture. We will be sharing proven strategies and exercises to get
students involved in creating and/or increasing an ally community at your school. By providing the proper tools and as adults
learning how to facilitate creative and compassionate conversations that enhance peer-to-peer relationships, we have found
that students feel empowered and take ownership in initiatives in creating a sustainable positive school culture. Handouts
will be provided that you can be put into action today, including team-building activities, conversation starters and more. All
this will help to bring your students closer together by motivating them to Cross The Middle Ground from being bystanders to
becoming allies for themselves and their peers. More info at: www.crossingthemiddleground.com John Boiano
BUSN 227
Developing Best Practices for A Student’s Gender Transition (K-12)
Increasingly youth are undergoing gender transitions at all levels of the K-12 school experience. This workshop is designed to
address the needs of administration, faculty, and students as a student undertakes a gender transition in school by developing
a best practice which addresses the needs of all concerned. This is a practical hands-on workshop. Parents and caregivers of
transgender youth welcome. Rev. Moonhawk River Stone, M.S., LMHC
College
BUSN 215
Did You Just Say What I Think You Said? Addressing Sexuality and
Gender Identity- Based Microaggressions
Multicultural microaggressions are aggressive communications “expressed in everyday insults and indignities, as well as
unintended and unconscious demeaning messages toward nondominant groups” (Smith, Shin, & Officer, 2011, p. 388).
Sexuality- and gender identity-based microaggressions can range from subtle but invalidating communications (e.g. assuming
someone’s spouse/partner is an opposite gender than them) to overtly hostile and insulting language (e.g. using a sexual slur
to verbally attack someone). Overt or covert, these acts reinforce heterosexist, monosexist, and/or cissexist world views and
whether intended to or not, can have negative effects on sexual and gender minority youth. For sexual and gender minority
students, microaggressions in school and classroom settings can be particularly problematic (Sue, Lin, Torino, Capodilupo, &
Rivera, 2009). In this interactive workshop we present a video on multicultural microaggressions in educational settings
followed by a discussion of the various types of microaggressions and troubleshoot ways to address them.
Kristin Bertsch, M.A.; Jill Franco, M.Ed.; Matthew Malouf, Ph.D., M.Ed
General Audience
LH 307
Discover Your Proud Voice Through Performance
We all have a story, stories of heartache and celebration. It is time to discover your proud voice through performance. There
is nothing more cathartic, authentic and inspiring than an individual telling their story. Learn how to tap into your inner
playwright by putting your life onto paper (script) and ultimately finding liberation through live theatre. Kimball Allen
General Audience
SU 410
Discovering Our Authentic Selves
In this workshop our goal is to bring more awareness and mindfulness to the topics below, and to offer practical and concrete
tools to help participants become aware of old negative patterns and belief systems which limit the possibilities of our future
selves and keep us from fulfilling our true potential. Jami Patterson, Certified Life Coach; Anthony Smokovich
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
20
General Audience
SU 304B
Dispatches from the Cutting Edge of Femme:
Femme Show Artist Talk Back
This workshop uses performances by members of The Femme Show, Boston's acclaimed revue of smart, sexy, interactive
performance about queer femme identity, as a jumping off point to discuss all kinds of femme identity past, present and
future. Topics for discussion include femme 101, femme and feminism, making femme identity inclusive, femme as gender
identity, creating safe and welcoming spaces for femmes in the LGBTQ community, and anything else you want to talk about!
The Femme Show
General Audience
LH 201
Female Masculinity- Studs, Ags, Boi's, Butch, Dom, Etc
An exciting and open discussion based workshop that is open to all who support female masculinity or question it. Our
discussion will cover topics such as the various masculine female identities (stud, ag, butch, boi, etc), relationships situations,
general issues, and more. Ternise Barrett
Youth Only
LH 111
Finding Your Inner Superhero (dibs on Wonder Woman)
Find your inner superhero in this workshop that explores alter-egos, secret identities, and the powers that will save the
world. Cyborg? Lavender Menace? Rainbow Warrior? Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility.
Barbara Gurr, MA, MA, MS, PhD
BUSN 112
Got LGBTQ Rights?
LGBTQ students deserve to be able to take full advantage of their education: to attend school in safety, to participate fully in
classes and activities, and to have their whole selves treated with respect. This interactive workshop will educate educators,
school faculty, and other people who work with youth on the rights of LGBTQ students, covering topics from GSAs and
bullying to sports teams and bathrooms. Vickie Henry, JD
Activist Institute
LH 107
Grassroots Organizing 101: Lessons from the Maine Front
Do you want to learn how to organize your friends, family, coworkers and classmates to create substantial change? Have you
always been curious about organizing but never gotten to try it out? In this workshop, we'll focus on making your action a
success by recruiting volunteers and supporting them in developing skills to make your action more effective. Having just come
off an exciting campaign in Maine, I'd love to help you make your action a success! Michael Michaelson
Youth Only
LH 308
Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships
Welcome to this youth led workshop on identifying healthy and unhealthy relationships. Engage with peers while
identifying what makes a good and healthy relationship. We will be recognizing stages of relationships which help
understanding our choices. Ignacio Heredia
BUSN 122
Healthy, Safe, Smart, and Strong: Using the CT Kids Report Card to
Strengthen Partnerships for the Wellbeing of CT’s Kids
A diverse group of stakeholders from various levels of government, non-profit, and community agencies, who care about
making things better for all children, came together to develop a tool for tracking the state of the state's children .
Recognizing the value of quantitative information in guiding investment of public funds, policy development, and the delivery
of services, we use available resources and data to report headline and secondary indicators related to safety, stability, health
and future success. The final product is on-line, accessible to anyone interested in "how we are doing", and "whether we are
headed in the right direction". This information now can be used to inform decisions about programs, budgets, and strategies
for change. Join us to discuss how we can improve outcomes for ALL of Connecticut's children. Erica Bromley; Jil Jensen;
Anne McIntyre-Lahner; Diana Urban
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
21
Youth Only
SU WOMEN'S CENTER
I’m Gay / Bi / Lesbian: And I thought Math Was Hard. O_o
When you’ve got people on your side, being gay, bi, and lesbian gets easier. Let’s talk about what’s easy, what’s difficult, what’s
up in the air: coming out, dating, love, sex, friends, school, religion, family… Let’s figure out what works and what doesn’t. Math
still might be a mystery though… Viktor Jakab, B.A.; Susan Jennifer Polese, Life Coach, B.F.A
Youth Only
LH 101
iBelong.. In comedy!
Comedy is a way to tell a truth. Everyone has a truth to tell. The most important part of being a comic is wanting to make
people laugh and think and consider. You have to be smart to be funny and you have to be smart to get funny. If you have ever
thought, been told you are funny or see things in ways others don't, please consider yourself invited and give yourself a chance.
My world forever changed when I did 8 years ago. From Babysitter, Hairdresser, Jello Wrestling MC, Chambermaid, Social
Worker, Homeless Teen Center Director, Social Media Editor, Activist, True Colors Board Member, Auctioneer and Comic
working colleges, conferences, clubs and very special events. If you think it is for you and aren't sure or were part of last years
epic 'TransRico Meetup' :) fb or tweet me @ http://christineoleary.com Christine O'Leary
Youth Only
GENTRY 131
mirror the “acceptable” images that are forced upon us daily? Let’s discuss the pleasures and pressures of our obsession
with body image. Barbara Curry
SU 318/319
In Our Own Voices: LGBT Youth in Care Speak OUT
LGBT youth are disproportionately represented in the foster care system. Some of their experiences are typical of youth in care,
some are specific to their LGBT identity, some are specific to their ethnic identity and some are combinations of these three
factors (and any others that I didn’t list!). Welcome to the intersectionality that is specific to this population! This panel
discussion is a chance to hear directly from DCF involved LGBT youth about their experiences in care. They will share their
stories and then open the floor to questions. If you work with LGBT youth involved in the ‘system’, this is a not to be missed
panel! Kamora Herrington
Youth Only
GENTRY 101
It's Game Time! LGBT Legal Rights & Advocacy Skills.
Participants will learn about legal rights of LGBT youth and self-advocacy skills to tackle thorny issues in school, in DCF care, and at
home. There will be a particular focus on issues related to youth who are gender non-conforming. This session will be presented
in a fun & interactive game-style format as well as case scenarios. Edwin Colon, JD, MSW; Stacey Violante Cote, JD, MSW
General Audience
SU 312
Laughter, Story and the Wounded Healer: Building your inner
resources for a lifetime of LGBT leadership
This small group workshop is for LGBT leaders who are interested in building their resilience. We'll talk about the challenges and
joys of trying to make things happen on our campus and in our community, what it costs us and what we gain and how our
personal stories fit in and inform our activism and organizing work. We'll also talk about how to build a good support system and
what we personally need to do this work over time. Workshop limited to five people, all five participants will have the option of
meeting individually with the workshop leader for 30 minutes during the conference to talk in a more in depth way about some of
the ways they are personally building resilience, and troubleshoot some of their challenges in seeking personal support.
Kelli Dunham
College
BUSN 226
Let's Talk About...
own. Kelsey Dutta
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
22
Youth Only
Gentry 142
Let's Talk About...
This is your chance to talk with other LGBTQ and ally youth about stuff you rarely get a chance to talk about: love, sex, dating,
relationships, where you meet each other, what life is like for you at home, at school, in your community… or whatever else you
want to talk about. This is your time! Gladys Barahona-Ruiz
General Audience
LH 110
LGBTM: Minorities within the LGBT Community
This workshop introduces the added pressures of being of both a sexual minority and a racial minority. We will explore some
LGBT heroes "of color." In addition, we will watch some clips from famous and not-so-famous movies to help launch discussions
on the intersection of racism and homophobia. Chastity Halsted, Jade Sailor
College
BUSN 218
LGBTQ U - Creating, finding, and utilizing LGBTQ resources on
the college campus
Do you feel as though your college or university should be providing some/more/better services for LGBTQ students (and
faculty/staff)? Learn strategies for getting your voice heard, figuring out Best Practices at other campuses, and finding
and utilizing outside and on-campus resources. Carolyn Taggart, MS.
General Audience
SU BALLROOM 331
Looking In Theatre
Teen actors present short dramatic scenes about issues students face, and follow with a discussion in which the actors answer
questions as their characters. A great vehicle for values clarification, better decision making, and making difficult topics safer
and easier to talk about. Jonathan Gillman
General Audience
LH 202
Making More Room: Creating a Safe and Welcoming Environment
for Identities Beyond the Binary
More and more youth are identifying beyond our binaries of biological sex, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual
orientation. Do you know someone who identifies as queer, genderqueer, asexual, intersex, gender non-conforming,
pansexual? Or maybe they just say, “I’m me. I don’t like labels.” How do you respond? Is your school or agency making room for
them? We’ll talk about these identities and give you best practices for individuals, schools, and youth-serving agencies.
Liz Miller; Missy Sturtevant, MSW
General Audience
SU 221
My life with ED
Approximately 11 million people of all ages, races, sexual orientations, and gender struggle with an eating disorder, whether it is
Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, or Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. The struggle of an eating disorder does not just
affect the individual but their family as well. I will be discussing my life with Bulimia. Laura Muro
General Audience
SU PRLACC
No, It Isn't Hopeless! Being a Professional Ally
to Middle School Students
This workshop is geared more towards Middle School teachers, administrators, or anybody who works with Middle Schools and
Middle School students, but attendees of all ages are welcome. We will be discussing effective ways to be an adult ally to the
students at your school, especially in Middle Schools, where the students seem particularly reluctant to comply. We will provide
an opportunity to network with other people working towards the same goals and to make a plan to improve your Middle
School's community. James Rockett; Skylar Spear
General Audience
GENTRY 225
Out in Front of the Cameras: Images of LGBT Middle and
High School Students
Depictions of LGBT people and issues on TV and mainstream Hollywood films have become more widely accepted amongst
viewers of all ages. We see many representations of students in middle and high school on TV and films, but how accurately do
they actually reflect real life? Through video clips and interactive activities, we will be able to see how LGBT-themed shows and
movies, while more common in the media today, both celebrate and stereotype the lives of middle and high school students.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
23
This workshop is just one of seven workshops facilitated by GLSEN Connecticut’s Student Org. Team; please ask members how
to join! Andy Russo; Jenna Simmons
Youth Only
GENTRY 140
Poetry as Activism
Spoken word is like hip-hop--everyone knows it's cool. If you like to write, are interested in activism, and want to learn
how to use poetry as a platform for making your voice heard, come to this workshop! We will talk about voice, listen to
spoken word and slam poems, and write our own poems about personal and political issues. Bekkah Olson
General Audience
LH 205
QPR For Suicide Prevention
The ultimate goal of the QPR training is to help community members prevent suicide attempts and completions. As a result of
this training, participants will be able to recognize risk factors and warning signs and understand the myths and facts associated
with suicide. Knowledge of referral sources will be addressed as well as increasing intervention skills. Michele Devine, MA;
Angela Duhaime, M.A.
General Audience
LH 206
Radical Love with a Twist: Christianity, Morality, and Sexuality
Today there are so many aspects to your life that might not be accepted everywhere, those things are difficult enough to deal
with. What happens when you have multiple aspects of your life that on top of being difficult to figure out, their ideas don’t
coincide nicely like chocolate and milk? Instead, it’s more like milk and Chinese food, they’re both the loves of your life but they
don’t match up side by side. Growing up in a Roman Catholic church, it became a part of me and then I went into the world and
realized not everything I learned there was “right”. People around me came out and didn’t change in my book. In this workshop
we will explore messages about sexuality in religions and the impact they have on your daily outlook on life. How can you be
religious and in social justice? Laura Stamas; Kennedy Strakose-Hagen
Youth Only
SU 320
Rubberwear
and how to use all of the above correctly to reduce the risk of contracting STIs/STDs and reduce pregnancies. Students
will also have an opportunity to practice techniques through a condom relay. Abstinence will also be respected as a
choice and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!! Kim Adamski
Youth Only
SU 321
Rubberwear
choice and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!! Paul Grabowski, B.A.
Youth Only
SU 322
Rubberwear
choice and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!! Tara Lutz, B.A.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
24
Youth Only
SU 325
Rubberwear
choice and will be discussed. Free give-a-ways will be provided!! Joleen M. Nevers, MAEd, CHES, CSE
BUSN 202
Sexual Orientation and Sexual Abuse
Who abuses children sexually? Are most pedophiles homosexual? How does sexual abuse affect victims’ sexuality? Does
sexual abuse induce children to become gay? Are gay children more likely to be abused? Do children who are sexually
abused become child molesters? Is there a difference between those who have sexual contact with children and those
who have sexual contact with adolescents? This workshop will consider answers to these and other questions that are
based on valid research. We will examine how opponents of gay rights misuse and misinterpret this research for
nefarious ends. Then, we will discuss three major and separate issues: how to protect against the damage caused by
virulent opponents of gay rights and more importantly, how to protect children from sexual abuse and how to help those
who have been abused. Madeleine Leveille, Ph.D.
General Audience
SU BALLROOM 330
Sing YOUR Song: Singing & Songwriting Workshop
Want a new way to express yourself? Love singing in the shower, but haven't shown it off yet? Whether you know it or
not, YOUR VOICE is a powerful instrument. This workshop will combine writing techniques and vocal exercises to FREE
YOUR INDIVIDUAL VOICE and learn how to write your own songs. No pre-written material is necessary; All you need to
bring is YOURSELF. - Teacher: Ryan Amador (http://www.ryanamador.com/). Ryan Amador
General Audience
LH 301
Stand Up! Speak Out! Music for Building Allies & Breakin' Down Bias
A hip mix of interactive songs, with eclectic beats and compelling lyrics, explores bias and bullying--from homophobia to
xenophobia—and the common enemy they share: prejudice. Stand Up! Speak Out! is a music-based crash course on the
ABC’s of Bystander Empowerment: Ally Building, Bias Awareness, and the Courage and Compassion to speak out and make a
difference. Through singing and discussion explore how to be an Ally, why language matters (Think before you speak!), what
the difference is between speaking out and snitchin’ (What’s your intention?) and why it takes courage and compassion to
step up to the plate and do the right thing. Be mindful of the roles you choose to play. Refuse to be a Bystander! Be among
the leaders who make your school and community a more welcoming space for all. Susan Goodman, BA,
General Audience
LH 302
That’s So Gay: Examining Humor and the LGBT Community
Participants will discuss and explore the use of humor as obstruction and as assistance to the movement. Discussion will
be provoked through video clips from comedians Eddie Murphy, Margaret Cho, Wanda Sykes, Ian Harvie, Margo Gomez
and others. Participants are encouraged to share their honest opinions, critical thinking, and sense of humor.
Participants will be able to examine humor as a life-giving gift and weapon of oppression. Fleurette King
BUSN 204
The new DSM 5 - Let's Talk About Changes
A clinical discussion related to the proposed change in the DSM, how it is related to perceptions about the fluidity of
sexual identity, how society and external pressures are influencing identity, and how sexual identity can change along the
developmental spectrum. Case study examples will be presented for open discussion. All providers and professionals
invited. Kian F Jacobs, MSW, LCSW
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
25
General Audience
LH 305
Transgender Friendly Picture Books for Young Children:
Underused Change Agents
This multimedia session will revolve around how the currently available twenty plus Transgender Friendly Picture Books
for Young Children (Prek-Grade 2) can be used as tools for change in six different important ways. It will also celebrate
the authors, illustrators and publishers who gave their creativity, time, and sometimes even funds to produce these
underused books that can help to make the world a better place for young transgender children now and in their future.
Handouts and book browsing time will be provided. Thomas Goodkind, Ph.D.; Elizabeth Rowell, Ph.D
BUSN 211
TransPACT/ From Fear to Hope
Come and listen to the stories of TransPACT members, a support group for parents of transgender and gender nonconforming children, they will share their stories of struggle and how the came to accept and support their transgender
and gender non-conforming children. Tony Ferraiolo, CPC
General Audience
SU THEATER
Trevor: Telling Stories; Changing Lives
Join award winning writer, actor, educator and film-maker, James Lecesne, in first viewing, then discussing the genesis and
impact of TREVOR both as a personal narrative and as a catalyst for change. Set in 1981, TREVOR, an academy Award winning
Short film, is a timeless coming-of-age story about love, loss, and learning to be yourself. Trevor is an exuberant, happy 13year old who has a crush on the most popular boy in school, Pinky Faraday. When Trevor's classmates discover his true
feelings for Pinky, they tease and mock him. Sad and friendless, Trevor decides the world would be better off without him and
tries to take his own life. But Trevor is no victim. By the end, it's clear his developing sense of self and undeniable enthusiasm
for life will always see him through. When TREVOR was scheduled to air on HBO®, the filmmakers realized that some young
viewers might face the same kind of crisis as Trevor and could use support. They searched for an appropriate lifeline number
to broadcast with the film but no such number existed. On August 8, 1998, James Lecesne, Peggy Rajski and Randy Stone
opened the Trevor Lifeline. Since that time, The Trevor Project has become a national leader providing crisis intervention and
suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth. Trevor Project co-founder, James Lecesne
Middle School Only
What It Means to be LGBTQ in Middle School
This workshop is an opportunity for LGBTQ and ally middle school-age youth to discuss their experiences in school, both
positive and negative, including what kind of supports they have and what supports they wish existed. The workshop is a
safe space to share stories about bullying and harassment and to discuss how support from peers, parents, or teachers
has made the experience better. The workshop will include a discussion of the major issues and problems facing LGBTQ
middle school students as well as brainstorming about what adults (parents, teachers, and school staff) and students can
do to make life better for LGBTQ middle school students. Patrick McGuire; Anna Morrow
Sponsors & donors make it the conference possible.
Don’t forget to check them out
starting on page 48
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
26
Friday Session III: 2:45 – 4:00 PM
Friday Session III
College
SU 221
2:45 - 4:00 p.m.
Various Locations
Apples to Apples
General Audience
SU 318/319
Asexuality Open Discussion
Asexual? Friend of, family of, or a significant other of one? Already familiar with asexuality? Come to this open discussion to
share your experiences, network, and have a comfortable time getting to know others! Sarah Levine
General Audience
LH 108
Be a Man: Debunking Gender Identities and Exploring the
Gender Spectrum
This workshop focuses on the gender roles imposed by society and the media, with an emphasis on the spectrum from
masculinity to femininity and the gray areas in between. People often generalize who a man and a woman are, but the truth is
that there are no clear distinction between these genders. Discussions within the workshop explore opinions and ideas on
gender from the media and participants. Elsa Alexandrin; Julie Alexandrin, Ph.D.; Kara Ellsmore; Dorothy Stickney
General Audience
LH 302
Beauty Before Age: Film and Discussion
This groundbreaking film explores the power of youth and beauty in the gay male community. A diverse group of men, ages 19 77, navigate their fears of becoming old, undesirable, and alone. The film critically examines the pressure to look young and
attractive, the lack of positive older role models, and the ways in which AIDS intensifies the fear and process of aging. Ned Ruete
Youth Only
LH 306
Better Body Image, Better State of Mind: The Media's Influence
on Body Image
How we feel about our bodies can impact our sexuality and can be greatly influenced by the media. In this workshop led by
teens, examine popular messages sent by the media and learn how to deconstruct these messages. Learn how to fight off
negative pressures and feel good about yourself! S.T.A.R.S (Students Teaching about Responsible Sexuality)
BUSN 112
Better Than College
Too often, we guide young people toward college as if it were the holy grail. Have you ever felt that you were simply leading
them toward massive debt and more struggles? In this workshop we'll explore the many highly productive and growthpromoting alternatives to college that should be part of every discussion regarding post-secondary options. Blake Boles, BA
College
SU 322
Cards Against Humanity: The Game
Unlike most of the party games you've played before, Cards Against Humanity is as despicable and awkward as you and your
friends. The game is simple. Each round, one player asks a question from a Black Card, and everyone else answers with their
funniest White Card. The session will be self-facilitated. Participants can simply play the game. OR, play the game while
exploring deeper questions such as: Why do we find stereotypes funny? What about this game makes us laugh and what
implications, if any, are inherent in the assumptions the game makes about us? Self-Facilitated
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
27
BUSN 122
Connect, Accept, Respond, Empower: How To Support LGBTQ Youth
This interactive workshop will provide an overview of suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth
and the different environmental stressors that contribute to their heightened risk for suicide. After reviewing current research,
there will be an emphasis on best practices and practical steps that service providers, educators, and LGBTQ non-profit
professionals can take to promote a positive environment for all youth. In addition, the workshop will discuss best practices
regarding the safe messaging of suicide, bullying and related topics with a focus on keeping youth safe. Wes Nemenz, BA
Youth Only
LH 111
Dating Tips and Staying Safe
Dating and relationships can be tough for anyone. But gay teens and young adults have some additional hurdles to overcome
like the fact that a lot of teens aren't out and that there are safety and honesty issues that can't be ignored when meeting
people and especially when meeting someone through an online site. But just because dating and meeting other GLBT teens can
be tricky, that doesn't mean doing so is impossible! Lots of gay teens date and have successful relationships. Mary Malia, BS
General Audience
LH 201
Dating, Sex, and the Bible
Is your relationship healthy or unhealthy? Find out what Jesus says about the ideal relationship. Are you proud of the way God
made you, including your sexuality? Find out why the Bible appears anti-gay and sexist at first glance. Learn how to dig out the
timeless truths underneath the cultural limitations of the Bible. Rev Nancy Butler, MDiv, MBA
BUSN 203
Exploring Identity Development With People Identifying as Transgender
This qualitative research project developed greater understanding of the process of identity development within the transgender
community. The researchers specifically chose qualitative research methods to empower and give voice to an oppressed group
that is generally ridiculed, targeted or rendered invisible. This project has significant implications for social work practice and
policy development. As gender variance becomes more visible in clinical and educational settings, professionals need increased
knowledge to understand the trajectory of identity development and the current socio-cultural issues and policies that impact
people identifying as transgender. Using the theoretical framework developed by Arlene Istar Lev (2004), this research advanced
the understanding of identity development and issues pertinent to therapists and other professionals. In addition to exploring
therapeutic issues, particular attention will be given to the unintended consequences of current medical and social policies that
may cause clients significant physical and psychological harm. Nora Padykula, MSW, PhD; Rose Sullivan, MSW, PhD
General Audience
SU WOMEN'S CENTER
Femulate: The Art of Becoming Womanly
To “femulate” is to emulate a female. This workshop will assist male-to-female crossdressers in the art of becoming womanly
and ultimately, to femulate successfully. (Successful femulation is the ability to emulate a female so well that the femulator is
accepted, that is, she “passes” in society as a female.) Stana Hunter, BA, JD
General Audience
SU BALLROOM 330
Gender: Form & Function
This workshop will explore the topic of GENDER through MOVEMENT. Some rockin' out to your favorite tracks and some more
abstract movement, this workshop will toy with the multitude of possibilities that movement provides as means to study the
range of gender in the modern world. Whether you're an experienced dancer or just a bit curious about what the heck this is,
THIS WORKSHOP IS FOR YOU! Jo Lampert
BUSN 227
GID, Gender Dysphoria? What's old, what's new? What's is all about in
the upcoming DSM-5? And why do we still need to have
transgender people be mentally ill?
This workshop will discussion the questions raised in the title in a practical hands on manner to assist clinicians, health care
providers in their work with transgender clients including how to handle increasing client questioning of clinicians about
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
28
needing the GID/GD diagnosis in order to access care. The workshop will touch briefly on what a more effective diagnostic
approach might encompass. Rev. Moonhawk River Stone, M.S., LMHC
Youth Only
LH 305
Gleeful About Diversity
This workshop is designed to use the popular TV show “Glee” as a means to analyze oppression, bullying and ways to be an ally
to marginalized groups. While LGBTQ youth are bullied at alarming rates, there are many other groups of students that are
bullied as well. After watching an episode of “Glee” the group will reconvene to have a discussion based on guided questions
that the facilitator provides. Not only does this dialogue help to spark discussion about the audience’s experiences with
bullying, it also allows the LGBTQ youth to produce ideas of how to be an ally for other oppressed groups (students of color,
students with disabilities etc.) who are bullied too. Emily Goupil, B.S., Candidate for M.S.
General Audience
LH 109
Got LGBTQ Rights?
classes and activities, and to have their whole selves treated with respect. This interactive workshop with attorneys and staff
from Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders will engage students in a presentation and discussion of their legal rights in
schools. Vickie Henry, JD
BUSN 204
Helping Teens Balance the Sex in Sexual Identity
In our efforts to support our LGBT Youth, professional staff is often lauded for our creation of safe spaces and accepting offices
and classrooms. However, the emotional health of our LGBT youth is sometimes overlooked as we focus on their readiness to
explore their sexual identity. Do we, as professionals, equate sexual-identity with sex? The discussion with GSA Advisor and
School Based Social Worker Emily Sega, LCSW, along with some high school students, will try to illustrate the risks (to body and
spirit) that such a focus encourages. We will hear from teens who struggle not only with their sexual identity but with being
identified as sexual beings while they are only adolescents. Do we have a higher tolerance of sexual behavior among LGBT
youth than their heterosexual counterparts? When we focus on the SEX in sexual identity, do we do a disservice to teens who
may still be unable to navigate sex and relationships? Emily Segal, MSW
College
LH 107
How Out, Loud, and Proud Can You Be at Work?
How Out, Loud, and Proud Can You be at Work” is tailored for College students who will be entering the workforce in the next
few years. This workshop will be interactive and fun! We will discuss 3 topics: 1) Personal Branding- You are creating your
“brand” through body language, clothing, appearance and knowledge – it’s what sets you apart from everyone else; 2) Being
Out at Work- we will explore tips on being out at work and other new environments and how it can improve your relationships
with peers and co-workers; and 3) Allies at Work and School- we will discuss what it means to be an ally and how allies can
effectively advocate for the LGBT community. Maria Afouxenides
College
SU 416A
Beauty is only skin deep? Say what? How can we be happy, creative, productive people without feeling that we should mirror
the “acceptable” images that are forced upon us daily? Let’s discuss the pleasures and pressures of our obsession with body
image. Robert Paolino
BUSN 215
It’s a Start: Making Your Classroom Safer for LGBTQ Students and Families
This workshop will give you tools to create a safer space for LGBTQ people within your own classroom, regardless of the
school-wide climate created by administration or colleagues. With a focus on classroom-based tools, the ideas presented will
not be those that require systemic change (such as curriculum design) but will instead be ideas and strategies that are
accessible to individual elementary, middle, and high school teachers who are working within the constraints of a larger
system. Maggie Neuman, BA, Special Education
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
29
General Audience
SU 312
Laughter is a Revolutionary Gesture: Using Humor For Self Care
As LGBT people, we've been the brunt of the joke way too long. We've been teased at school, at home and mocked on TV and
in all sorts of dominant culture. This workshop is about taking back laughter as a tool of personal empowerment and using it to
de-stress, communicate better, turn the rigid gender binary on its head, deal with street harassment and build resilience. You
don't have to consider yourself "a funny person" to participate in this workshop. It's about discovering our own unique sense
of humor. We'll have fun and NO ONE will make you wear a clown nose, promise. Kelli Dunham
College
SU 321
Let's Talk About...
own. Matthew Drufee
Youth Only
Let's Talk About...
Work-shopped out? Or maybe you have a topic you want to talk about but there wasn't a workshop about it? Just want a
chance to meet other students and talk in small groups? Here ya go. Self-Facilitated
Youth Only
GENTRY 221
Let's Talk About...
Work-shopped out? Or maybe you have a topic you want to talk about but there wasn't a workshop about it? Just want a
chance to meet other students and talk in small groups? Here ya go. Self-Facilitated
Youth Only
SU PRLACC
Letters to My Younger Self
So when did you come out? How long has it been? If you, at the age you are right now, could give advice to your younger, justcoming-out self what would you say? Come share & hear each other’s stories with award winning writer, actor, educator and
film-maker, James Lecesne. We’ve all got something important to say. James Lecesne
Youth Only
LH 307
LGBTQ Peer Support
This workshop is to help young LGBTQ kids understand that they are not alone in this world. They’re not the only gay, lesbian,
bisexual, transgender, or questioning teenager who exist. Participants will be encouraged to take the journey of self-discovery
and to be able to practice coming out. This will allow them to communicate with other kids going through the same
experiences with sexuality and gender identity. Taylor Deschene
LH 206
LGBTQQABCDEFG: Making sense of the alphabet soup of identities
Back ‘in the day’, one was either straight or gay (at least those were the labels we used.) Today, we have non-labeling, straightish, pansexual, genderqueer and a host of other words that people use to describe themselves and their experiences as sexual
and gendered beings. With no group is this more true than with youth and young adults. This workshop will explore some of
language, identities and definitions with an eye toward the implications for clinical practice. Matt Toscano, Kristin Van Ness
Youth Only
SU 304C
Love, Sex, Dating, Relationships & Bullying
This is an opportunity for young people, high school and college students, to open up and talk about what is on their minds,
how they can connect with other people in similar situations and share their experiences. When we start to appreciate that we
have all had similar experiences it makes it easier to move forward. The sky's the limit! James Ezzes
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
30
General Audience
LH 110
Mirror, Mirror On the Wall. Who's The Most Empathetic of Them All?
Ever wonder how you can make your school more inclusive and equitable for LGBTQ students of color? We welcome everyoneLGBTQ student of color and allies- to join us for an exciting discussion on how to help create a more empathetic environment in
schools. We'll engage in some fun activities that help students and school staff step up to create a safer and more supportive
community for LGBTQ students of color and their allies. This is just one of seven workshops offered by GLSEN Connecticut’s
Student Org. Team; please be sure to talk with our members on how to join! Celina Deng; Nyasia Mercer Long; Erica Del Rio
General Audience
SU BALLROOM 331
Move Your Body - It's a Zumba Party!
Let’s move! Nina Lawrence is an AFAA certified group fitness instructor and a licensed Zumba® Fitness instructor. She is
looking forward to bringing a fresh new style of Zumba® Fitness to the True Colors Conference, so get ready to have a body
rockin', calorie-burnin', fun time with her! Nina Simone Lawrence
Youth Only
LH 308
Name of the Game? Empowerment! The 411 on Student Organizing
Do you have a passion for making your school safer for all students, regardless of sexual orientation and gender
identity/expression? Put your passion into action by joining GLSEN Connecticut€™s Student Org. Team! Our team consists of
middle and high school students from all across the state committed to preventing bullying and harassment in schools. Come
meet our team€™s coordinators, including the student coordinators of our Jump-Start and Students of Color Organizing (SOCO)
teams, for the 411 on how to get involved! Julian Arias; Alberto Cifuentes, Jr., BA; Roberto Diaz
General Audience
LH 202
OMG! Your Too Pretty To Be Gay!: Life as a Feminine Lesbian
Have you ever been told that you were too, ahem 'attractive' to be gay? That you weren't a 'real' lesbian because you don't
look or act like one? This workshop calls all femme, lipstick, and other non aggressive identified females of all ages to join in a
fun interactive discussion about the challenges daily faced. Shanique Reid; Rebecca Webber
General Audience
LH 301
Once Upon a Time: From Heather Has Two Mommies to My Princess Boy
and Everything in Between
Join us for this interactive and dynamic workshop where we will trace LBGTQ issues in children’s picture books. The publication
of Heather has Two Mommies in 1989 was overwhelming met with hostility. During the first decade of the new millennium this
genre has grown to include many different aspects of the LBGTQ community. Most recently, books featuring transgender
children as the main character are gaining momentum if not universal acceptance. In this session we will bring a critical lens to
the illustration, character development, and narrative of contrasting books across issues. Our discussion will focus on the
accurate portrayal of the community as well as the quality of the literature. Our collection is extensive and will be available for
browsing and discussion. We will invite participants to envision the title and book cover they dream will one day be published.
All members of the workshop will receive an annotated bibliography and other resources. One lucky member will leave with a
basket of five books to take home. Wright Lisa, Ed. D.; Alexandra Luciani
General Audience
BUSN 211
Parenting our Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Kids
Come join other parents of Transgender, Gender-Queer, and Gender Non-Conforming kids for camaraderie, support, and
laughter as we share our stories of the challenges, surprises, and joys of raising our "different" children. The workshop will be
interactive, with plenty of opportunities to share strategies and resources with other parents as we navigate the world of
parenting a Transgender child. Lori Davison, MA; Tony Ferraiolo
BUSN 218
Policies for Gender Variant Students
This workshop will examine barriers that gender diverse students face in schools and how the non-discrimination law affects
them. In a school system, some of the obstacles gender diverse students face in their educations can easily be overcome by
having a policy in place. This workshop will cover briefly the transition process and the Connecticut anti-discrimination law.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
31
Then we will look at what a school policy should cover, such as name change, changing records and the use of bathrooms.
Diana Lombardi, MSW
Youth Only
LH 205
QPR For Suicide Prevention
The ultimate goal of the QPR training is to help community members prevent suicide attempts and completions. As a result of
this training, participants will be able to recognize risk factors and warning signs and understand the myths and facts associated
with suicide. Knowledge of referral sources will be addressed as well as increasing intervention skills. Michele Devine, MA;
Youth Only
SU 303
Sexaware- A Facilitated Discussion For Anyone
Questioning Sexuality And Orientation.
An open and safe discussion touching upon the idea of gender & orientation as a spectrum of possibilities. This will be an
educational initiative to promote awareness of sexuality with honest communication & peer support. Karla Figuereo;
Sue Richmond
General Audience
SU 320
Stop and Replay: Hero How To's
Ever heard something offensive, but didn't know how to react? Come brainstorm and role-play different scenarios, and
practice how to be an ally. Luz Avila; Athon Julianne, BA; Julianna Migliaro; Carynna Mott
Youth Only
LH 101
Telling Our Stories with Looking In Theater
Working with teenaged actors from Looking In Theatre, participants create short dramatic scenes about issues they want to
discuss, and then present them to the group. Jonathan Gillman
General Audience
SU 410
The Complexities of Being Comfortable While Coming Out
This workshop will address the sensitivities of interacting with people who have not come out about their sexual identity. This
includes not only having a friendship with someone who has not come out but also being in an intimate relationship with
someone who has not come out. The pressures of knowing someone's secret sexual orientation can be confusing when in a
social environment in either high school or college. We have had personal experiences with this topic in respect to our friends
or romantic partners and therefore, understand how coming out to the public varies greatly from coming out to one individual;
or being that one individual that one comes out to. Coming out to one individual or a small group of people gives this
person/group more personal information on a private matter that people need to understand how to respect. Jake Ireland;
Abigail Peña
Youth Only
SU 304B
The Gauntlet
This workshop is a fast paced exploration into the irritating, naive and sometimes invasive questions that LGBTQ youth are
asked. It provides an opportunity to brainstorm the questions and then to practice asking and answering in a quick spin
through the gauntlet. Bob Brex, M.A.T.
Youth Only
LH 309
They did what? They said what?
The audience will enter a description of an event, and the small cast will play it out. Following the brief skit, the audience will
be asked about how they felt watching, what were initial responses, and how situations might have been handled differently.
Kian F Jacobs, MSW, LCSW
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
32
BUSN 226
Transgender Medical Provider Roundtable
The majority of this session will be devoted to an interactive discussion among participants. The goals of this session are: To
gather New England-based medical providers of transgender care (hormone therapy and primary care); To exchange ideas,
experiences, forms, articles etc. with the express goal of developing some common approaches to practice; To begin to
develop a set of common instruments for data collection; To begin to plan contributions to the literature in the form of articles
on basic clinical care and outcomes. J. Aleah Nesteby, Nurse Practitioner; P. Davis Smith, MD
General Audience
SU 304A
Word Wars!
Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will shape your REALITY! In this workshop Collective Consciousness Theatre
artists and participants will use interactive theatre games, movement exercises, and candid group discussions to find real
solutions to name-calling, aggressive, and hurtful language. Our world is filled with so many ways for negative people and ideas
to inflict harm upon us. It is time to TAKE A STAND! Let's work together to spread a message of understanding, positive
communication, and change. Everyone is welcome to join in the discussion, to play with us, and to perform in front of a group
of peers. Madelyn Ardito, BA; Dexter Singleton, BA
College
SU 325
Would you rather?
A Self-Facilitated Discussion (you run it!) using the game, Would you Rather, as a conversation starter Self-Faciliated
Friday Closing Session
4:15 - 5:00 p.m.
Jorgensen Theater
Kelli Dunham, Fresh Fruit Award winning comedian, is frequently
mistaken for a member of a boy band even though she is an adult
female; Is a skateboarding ex-nun who has never been able to
successfully get drunk and lied about
her age to get her first library card;
Has an undiagnosed medical condition
that makes her crave nutritional yeast
on bacon and diet soda with equal
(and scary) zeal. Really, how could she
be anything BUT a stand-up comic?
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
33
Saturday, March 23rd Agenda
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Agenda
Registration
8:00 - 9:00 a.m.
Student Union
1st Floor
Opening Session
Featuring Aaron Pitre
9:00 - 10:15 a.m.
1st Floor
Workshop Session I
10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
Various Locations *
Lunch
11:45 - 1:00 p.m.
Student Union Ballroom
3rd Floor
Workshop Session II
1:15 - 2:30 p.m.
Various Locations *
Workshop Session III
2:45 - 4:00 p.m.
Various Locations *
Closing Activities/Performance
4:15 - 5:00 p.m.
Featuring Kin4Life & Andrea Paquin
*See workshop descriptions for specific locations
TC 20 After Hours Events (free to conference attendees)
Drag Show
Hosted by Harlette LeFleur
6:00 – 7:15 p.m.
1st Floor
Youth Dance
8:00 p.m. - Midnight
3rd Floor
See page 49 for details about after-hours events!
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
34
Saturday Opening and Session l: 10:30 – 11:45 AM
Saturday, March 23, 2013 Schedule
Saturday Opening Session
9:00 – 10:15 a.m.
SU Theater
Welcome: Robin McHaelen, Fleurette King
'Inside the Cup,' by Aaron Pitre: a play about human life behind the counters of the world's most
popular coffee shop. Featuring the stories of Pepper, an enthusiastic 19 year old girl; Randy, A man from
an all-American town in the South and Sonia, a woman who hates Christmas. Aaron Pitre is an actor and
playwright from Seattle, WA. He is a graduate of Suffolk University where he acted in over 20 plays
including 'Rhinoceros,' and 'Othello' for which he won an award from the Kennedy Center American
College Theatre Festival for his portrayal of Iago. Pitre originated the role of Laurence/Lionel in the Elliot
Norton Award winning 'The Blowin of Baile Gall' by Ronan Noone, and he played Hamlet in the New England
premiere of 'The Secret Love Life of Ophelia,' by Steven Berkoff. Other theatrical credits include: 'Black
Nativity' with the Intiman Theatre(Seattle, WA) 'A Chorus Line' with the Winthrop Playmakers(Winthrop,
MA), 'The Tempest' with Shakespeare in Delaware Park(Buffalo, NY), and 'The Relapse' with the Irish
Classical Theatre Company(Buffalo, NY).
.
Saturday Session I
Youth Only
SU 312
10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Various Locations
Apples to Apples
General Audience
LH 108
Approaching GLBT/GSRM in Non-Western cultures [i.e. International
It can be difficult, at times, to appreciate the degree to which Western-centrism has shaped the lens through which one
views the world. Even in supposedly international spaces such as the internet, the advice for GLBT/GSRM individuals in
particular is filtered through heavily America-normative and West-normative attitudes. How does the West view
GLBT/GSRM progress in non-Western societies, and how are those views both accurate and inaccurate? What does
"coming out" mean for cultures where expressing one's individuality is more often than not considered to be selfish,
rather than empowering? Is East Asia, and in particular, Japan, a liberating paradise or a suffocating cesspit for
GLBT/GSRM people? What does it mean to be or be perceived as GLBT/GSRM in Middle Eastern cultures? What is 'pink
washing'? Note that while the presentation will mostly focus on the Middle East and East Asia, discussions and story
sharing are highly encouraged. Alexandra Yang
General Audience
SU 410
Building Youth-Adult Relationships that Work (Better)
A school Social Worker wants to talk to an "out" African-American student. You get to be the student, or the Social
Worker. Sometimes things don't go so well in these meetings. Why? Interactive, role-playing, experimental design,
prizes (chocolate). Gerald Dillenbeck, MPA, M. Div.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
35
Saturday Session l: 10:30 – 11:45 AM
Youth Only
SU 316/317
Can You See Us Now?: Gender, Race, and Visibility
Many minority populations feel invisible in society, but this is especially true for transgender (trans) and gendernonconforming (GNC) people of color: minorities among minorities. In this workshop, we'll discuss some of the
oppressions that trans and GNC people of color (POC) face, both from their own ethnic/cultural communities as well as
the greater whole of society. We'll also work out ways in which all people can be a part of the solution to the problem of
invisibility that trans and GNC POC face, especially in schools. This is just one of seven workshops facilitated by GLSEN
Connecticut's Students of Color Organizing (SOCO) and Jump-Start teams. Be sure to talk with our members on what we
do and how to join! Kaiima (Kash) Griffith, Calliope Wong
LH 111
Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Teens in the US and CT
Service Providers, Law enforcement, teachers and adults working with youth often have the best access to the most at-risk
and victimized youth in our communities. However, a lack of understanding and adequate training amongst these
professionals leads to a lack of identification and misidentification of exploited children. What may appear to be dating
violence, truancy, a harmless tattoo, or drug abuse can all be signs that there is something else going on behind the scenes.
Steven Procopio, ACSW, LICSW; Nicole von Oy, MSW
College
SU 303
Consent is Sexy!
This interactive workshop introduces an interpretation of consent based on clarity, mutuality and enthusiastic participation.
Participants discuss ways in which gender role socialization and traditional expectations about sex and sexuality create
barriers for open communication with intimate partners. The workshop encourages students to brainstorm creative and
comfortable ways of giving and obtaining clear consent. More importantly, the workshop gives students the tools to become
bystanders and help potentially prevent sexual assault from happening in the first place. Liz Halla-Mattingly, BA
LH 305
Creating a Culturally Inclusive Environment
Learning to accept, celebrate and support our individual differences is an essential part of wellness and recovery concepts,
but how can we best support an environment of inclusivity? This workshop will help participants develop strength by
understanding cultural roots, valuing personal beliefs, and exploring the importance of helping people build their own unique
identities. Participants will learn tips on alliance building to sustain an inclusive environment, as well as apply practical
information through living examples from the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Service’s Allied
Access program supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender youth in a behavioral health setting. David Heath Holt, MHR;
Sherry Kollmann, MA; M. Ed; PhD candidate
General Audience
LH 109
Exploration of Body Images in the Media
Participants will engage in discussions and activities which focus on the ideals and stereotypes related to body image
portrayed by the media. The ideas of beauty and ugliness, and how people are used for their beauty and ugliness will be
examined. In addition, how youth are affected by these images and how to counter these effects when negative or how to
support them when positive will be explored. Julie Alexandrin, Ph.D.; Elizabeth Kane
General Audience
LH 302
For the Bible Tells Me So: Film and Discussion
Through the experiences of five, very normal, Christian, American families, we discover how people of faith handle the
realization of having a gay child or family member. Ean Oliver
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
36
General Audience
LH 110
Got LGBTQ Rights?
classes and activities, and to have their whole selves treated with respect. This interactive workshop with attorneys and staff
from Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders will engage students in a presentation and discussion of their legal rights in
schools. Maryse Pearce, BA; Allison Wright, JD
General Audience
SU RAINBOW CENTER
Graduating with Rainbows: How to Determine
LGBTQIA-Friendly Colleges
Participants will learn about the function and purpose for the University of Connecticut Rainbow Center (RC). As one of 5
cultural centers, the RC provides advocacy, resources, information, social activities, educational programs and a facility
designated to the diversity of sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions. UConn students will talk about
the impact of the Rainbow Center and participants will tour the 3,800 sq. ft center, even though it serves as the True Color
Conference headquarters and volunteer space. Participants will discuss programs and policies that aid to the success of
LGBTQQIA students, including heterosexual allies. High school students, parents, and advisors will obtain factors and
resources to look for a LGBTQ–friendly college campus. Fleurette King
Youth Only
LH 308
Hurt: Healthy and Unhealthy Teen Relationships
How do you know if you’re in a healthy relationship or not? We will talk about some of the characteristics of healthy
relationships and the warning signs that you are in an unhealthy relationship. We will talk about how to how to identify
dangerous situations in one’s own relationships and those of others, how to escape an unhealthy relationship, how to cope
after the breakup and how to bounce back. There will also be discussion about the experience of being in a relationship with
someone who has been in an unhealthy relationship and the unique challenges associated with overcoming the negative
experiences and developing healthy relationships in the future. Cameron Duplessis; Kathleen Harrison, BA
General Audience
SU 318/319
I Just Need To Pee
Have you ever wondered whether to use the men's restroom or the women's restroom? Do you ever have second thoughts
about using a locker room or a changing room because of your gender expression? Do you remember in elementary school
sitting boy-girl-boy-girl? What if you didn't fit the qualifications for boys or girls? What if you were neither, or both? Come
explore gender identity and expression without the norms of a gendered world. Alec Oarei
General Audience
LH 205
In The Life: Defying Stereotypes
The lack of fair and accurate representations of LGBT people is arguably one of the leading causes of homophobia. One way to
eradicate homophobia is to counter stereotypes with positive gay images that raise awareness and reflect the diversity of our
communities. This July, IN THE LIFE features lesbian “touristas” who bring positive visibility and lend a helping hand to local
communities in the Caribbean, and rappers who use their words and images to change hearts and minds within the music
industry. Melody Forrester, Esq.
General Audience
LH 206
Intersexuality: Disorders, Differences and Identities
Sex… do you know it when you see it? Though most of us never think to question our own sex, we don’t enter the world with
“male” or “female” stamped on our backside. People are generally assigned a sex at birth, which is determined by multiple
physiological factors. However, for some people those factors do not fit binary sex labels. The conditions underlying this
difference are generally referred to as disorders of sex development (DSD). However, individuals with a DSD may identify
their sex and gender using a wide range of language, including intersex. This workshop explores some basic assumptions
about sex and describes the underlying conditions that challenge these assumptions. The implications DSD have for quality of
life of affected individuals is also explored including recommendations for allies of individuals affected by DSD.
Representatives from the field of mental health and queer studies, and pediatric medicine answer your questions.
Jill Bernstein, M.D.; Matthew Malouf, Ph.D., M.Ed.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
37
College
LH 201
LGBT Fraternities and Sororities
Have you ever wanted to be a part of a Fraternity or Sorority but didn't know where to go or how to find one? Come learn
about the different Fraternities and Sororities that exists. This session will include a actual interest meeting for those who
are interested in Tau Kappa Phi Inc. DaJavon Davis
General Audience
SU 304A
Not an Alien, Asexual
Asexuality is a relatively unknown sexual orientation that is sometimes ignored by mainstream LGBTQ+ media. This workshop
is an opportunity to understand the language of asexuality and aspects of this orientation that can sometimes be confusing to
sexuals. Kael Alberghini; Alessandra Martinelli-Alvarez, AA
LH 306
Open Doors, Safe Spaces: Creating Climates that Welcome TBLG Youth
Working with youth is very rewarding, but sometimes connecting with LGBTQQIP youth is a challenge. What terms should you
use? What questions should you ask? How do you create a climate in your space that says “you can be yourself here”? This
workshop is aimed at professionals and future professionals of all occupations addressing these very questions, and will be
adapted to the needs of you, the audience! Come with any questions you may have. Eva Dayon, BA
College
LH 107
Passionate Possibilities: Exploring Nontraditional
Relationship Structures
Ever thought about having more than one romantic or sexual partner? Felt constricted by the idea of that paired-off happily
ever after? Fell for more than one person at the same time? Does monogamy just not work for you? Come discuss the
multitude of relationship structures and identities that allow for romantic and sexual relationships with more than one
person! We will give you an introduction to how to practice responsible and fun non-monogamy where everyone consents to
multiple relationships. This will include setting boundaries, dealing with jealousy, challenges faced by the community and
more. Lynden Dolan; Allie Smith; Henry Ayers-Brown
General Audience
SU 304B
Personal Courage: The Stories of LGB Service members
After giving a brief history of LGBT persons in the United States military, we will speak candidly about our experiences in the
military both before and after the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Colin Lewis; Katie Starr
Youth Only
LH 102
Pleasures of Sexual Relationships: Communication,
Comfort, and Safety
We welcome you to this youth-led workshop on realistic and relevant ways to communicate about practicing pleasurable
safer sex. Engage with your peers through interactive games and peer led discussions. Let’s promote communication before
fornication to make safer sex sexy! Pablo Barnes; Emma Ryan
Youth Only
LH 309
Safer sex is smart and sexy: Negotiating safer sex and abstinence
(People who identify as Girls Only)
Welcome to this youth led workshop on realistic and relevant ways to be smart and sexually savvy while practicing safer
sex. Engage with your peers though interactive games and peer led discussions. Let’s talk about how to truly make safer
sex sexy! Maia James; Brianna Powell; Sadea Sweat; Bryttney Wingate
Activist Institute
LH 106
Telling Our Stories
Everyone's story is interesting, provocative, and interesting. The goal would be to help young activists realize that, no matter
who they are, they have a story and deserve to tell it. Using my background in activism and speaking about my story we, as a
group would work to develop everybody's story into a narrative about who they really are today and how they got there.
Taffy Bowes, Jacob Griffith Gardner
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
38
General Audience
LH 202
THE TIMES, THEY ARE A CHANGIN'!
Mr. International Daddy Bear 2009 and outreach activist Joe Mannetti facilitates a discussion on the changing face of LGBT
politics and social structures. Assimilation vs. Diversity? Consumerism vs. Political Activism? Bear, Leather, Fem, Twink,
Transgender, Questioning? What do these labels mean today, and what are the new labels replacing them - or are labels still
important? Join us for a lively and informative forum of sharing! Joe Mannetti
General Audience
LH 301
The Work of Byron Katie®: They Don’t Accept Me as Natural
What happens when you feel family, friends, or society, doesn’t accept you for who you are? Do you get angry, hurt, frustrated
or depressed? The Work of Byron Katie offers a simple way out. It allows you to identify and question your stressful, painful
thoughts about yourself and others, and discover the peace that’s always there. Watch a video, then experience The Work® for
yourself. Take home a powerful tool that can help you live with peace and integrity.“Nothing outside you can ever give you what
you’re looking for.” ~ Byron Katie. Joy Karim, MA; Certified Facilitator of The Work®
General Audience
SU 320
TRANSgenerational Conversations
Calling trans* people of ALL ages! If you could ask one question to a trans* person older or younger than you... what would YOU
ask? Trans* youth, adults, and elders have many things to offer and many things we wish we knew about each other. Join our
multi-generational facilitators in a conversation that reaches across all ages to examine the identities we use, our trans* history,
and more. So whether you’re 13, 30, or 63... have your unique voice heard and learn from others! Lyndon Cudlitz; Ryan
DiMartino; Teo Drake
General Audience
SU 304C
Under The Radar: Highlighting the Invisibility of LGBTQ
Middle School Students
When you meet a student in the seventh grade and another student in the tenth grade, do you see a difference? In fact, many
people respond differently to middle school students when they come clean about their sexual orientation or gender
identity/expression. LGBT middle school students have been under the radar for a while now due to pervasive stereotypes and
misconceptions from both teachers and students. This workshop will highlight the invisibility of LGBT middle school students
and unveil the harsh realities they face when it comes to bullying and harassment. This is just one of seven workshops facilitated
by GLSEN Connecticut’s Student Org. Team; please ask us how to join! Julian Arias; Hanna Bacha
General Audience
SU 325
We Can't Say No Until We Say YES!
What is that intimate thing all about? How do I say yes to consent? Well fear no more, this workshop will explore sexual
intimacy that allows you to communicate what you want, and how to get it while and to provide fun for you (and your
partner). We will discuss negotiation, communication, as well as "non-traditional" sexual and intimate activities.
Hannah Prum, BA
College
LH 201
What's Your Position
A workshop that explores the various layers of LGBT persons and how those layers impact how we perceive the world and
how the world perceives us. I'd also like explore the marginalization in our own LGBT community by dominant culture when
you are an LBBT person of color or of other minority status. Tanisha McMillan, BS.
LH 307
Working Together: How to Create Effective, Creative, Healthy
Coalitions
So you want to change the world? Changing the world begins one relationship at a time. This workshop will assist participants
in learning effective coalition building through active listening skills, clear communications, consensus decision making, goal
setting and shared leadership. Rev. Moonhawk River Stone, M.S., LMHC
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
39
Saturday Double Sessions and Session II: 1:15 – 2:30 PM
Saturday Session II
LH 106
Double Sessions 1:15 - 4:00 p.m.
Various Locations
Bending the Binary: Bringing the full spectrum of gender identity
and expression into the therapeutic context
Do you work in a therapeutic setting? Have you heard people talk about the gender binary but don’t know exactly what
that means? Want to expand your knowledge and better understand gender identities and expressions? Join us to learn
more about trans* and cis identities and the rest of the gender spectrum.... and to get some hands-on practice with being
more affirming and inclusive towards youth of all genders. Aubri Drake, MSW; Melanie Martin-Peele, MA
General Audience
SU Ballroom 331
Life's a DRAG
Come see how drag is really done. Learn how it started, how to put on face and what the Imperial Sovereign Court does for our
community. Maybe even be lucky enough to be put into DRAG. For Queens and Kings alike. Bryce McKinzie
College
LH 101
The Butch Factor: What Kind of Man are YOU? (film and discussion)
Double Session: 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Insightful interviews mixed with entertaining eye-candy make this fast-paced testosterone tour a must-watch movie for all
gay men. From the Castro clone culture of the 1970s to today's Bears and gym rats this fascinating investigation of gay men
and masculinity blows the lid off old stereotypes and showcases a strapping battalion of interviewees including muscle men,
rodeo riders, rugby players and cops. The men speak candidly on a range of topics from homophobia to metrosexuality to
embracing effeminacy as they reveal what it means to be a gay man today. David Garnes
Saturday Session II
1:15 - 2:30 p.m.
General Audience
SU 316/317
Approaching Challenging Situations
Various Locations
Was there ever a time you were unsure how to respond to an uncomfortable situation? How would you respond if your
friend said, "That's so gay" or teased someone about their gender identity? In this workshop, we will discuss strategies for
approaching challenging situations like these. Becca Herman, M.Ed
Youth Only
LH 308
Beyond “Bi”: How Well Do Our Labels Really Fit?
This workshop will explore how every individual’s experience of their own sexuality is unique, especially for those who
identify their sexuality as neither “straight” or “gay” and about some of the existing labels and myths about those who fall
outside of this binary. We will have open discussion about developing a bisexual (or lesbian or gay) identity and about what it
means to be questioning. You will hopefully better understand the many ways that sexuality goes beyond the binary of “gay”
and “straight” and what is involved in creating a sexual identity that encompasses your complicated real life.
Cameron Duplessis, Kathleen Harrison, BA
Activist Institute
LH 107
Busting OUT in Predictable Ways: LGBTQ in Pop Culture
Teenagers are hooked into media- we digest it through our cell phones, TV, music, the news, magazines, Facebook, and
YouTube- but what are the messages we are being force-fed? This introduction to critical thinking about the media we
consume will be used as a platform to dive into conversation about the realities of our daily lives. Come ready to move, speak,
think, share, and explore. WARNING: this might change your world. Eva Dayon, BA
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
40
Saturday Session Il: 1:15 – 2:30 PM
General Audience
LH 108
Combating Racism in the LGBT Community
Many people tend to think of racism as a practice of the past. Unfortunately, this is not true. This workshop aims to teach
attendees the ways in which racial discrimination still persists to this day and how those within the lgbt+ community can be
allies to those who face such discrimination. Topics covered include what its live under two systems of oppression as queer
people of color, how those within the gay community can and do discriminate against racial minorities, understanding white
privilege and ways in which those within the gay community can fight modern racism. Ana Borja; Luis Zabala
LH 306
Creating a Collaborative LGBTQ Brave Space at your agency
LGBTQ youth struggle to find a safe space to be their complete self in our heterosexist, homophobic, gender phobic society;
this obstacle because more challenging when an LGBTQ youth is placed in foster care. It is important for agencies to take
responsibility in creating a brave/safe environment where clients can express their difference and case mangers can challenge
their own bias around LGBTQ politics. In order for this collaboration to exist, case managers must be well versed in LGBTQ
competencies. This workshop highlights the basic knowledge of LGBTQ 101 and provides tools on assisting LGBTQ youth with
coming out, how to address harassment, tools to assess the cultural environment of your agency. Megan Benton, MA
General Audience
LH 109
Creating a Culturally Inclusive Environment
Learning to accept, celebrate and support our individual differences is an essential part of wellness and recovery concepts,
but how can we best support an environment of inclusivity? This workshop will help participants develop strength by
understanding cultural roots, valuing personal beliefs, and exploring the importance of helping people build their own unique
identities. Participants will learn tips on alliance building to sustain an inclusive environment, as well as apply practical
information through living examples from the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Service’s Allied
Access program supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender youth in a behavioral health setting. David Heath Holt, MHR;
Sherry Kollmann, MA M. Ed
General Audience
SU 321
Daddy or Father, changing diapers and gender stereotypes…..
So as a guy, did you or do you ever wonder about being a Father, NO, not a Daddy! Let's explore the path to parenthood and
the rapidly dissolving gender stereotypes associated with being and becoming a father and what it means to be a father
today. We will explore the paths available to parenthood for men, both single and partnered and have some fun learning
about what it means to be Dad. Any person is welcome to this session who is interested in the journey toward parenthood.
Brian Tessier
Youth Only
LH 309
Dating Tips and Staying Safe
Dating and relationships can be tough for anyone. But gay teens and young adults have some additional hurdles to overcome
like the fact that a lot of teens aren't out and that there are safety and honesty issues that can't be ignored when meeting
people and especially when meeting someone through an online site. But just because dating and meeting other GLBT teens
can be tricky, that doesn't mean doing so is impossible! Lots of gay teens date & have successful relationships. Mary Malia, BS
General Audience
SU 318/319
Did You Just Say Penis? Sex-ED Done Right
Sex-ED generally doesn’t generally acknowledge the beautiful rainbow of possibilities when it comes to our bodies and our
minds. This workshop will explore the ways people of all gender identities can get down and dirty in ways not taught in your
average high school class. If you’ve ever wanted just a little bit more, come with an open mind and a willingness to learn new
things. Alec Oarei; Hannah Prum, BA
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
41
General Audience
SU THEATER
Discover Your Proud Voice Through Performance
We all have a story, stories of heartache and celebration. It is time to discover your proud voice through performance. There
is nothing more cathartic, authentic and inspiring than an individual telling their story. Learn how to tap into your inner
playwright by putting your life onto paper (script) and ultimately finding liberation through live theatre. Kimball Allen
General Audience
LH 111
Enforcing Gender Identity and Expression Non-Discrimination Laws
This interactive workshop discusses gender identity and expression and identifies existing areas of law that are impacted
by gender identity protection. Join us for a fun, entertaining, and informative presentation. Maryse Pearce, BA
General Audience
LH 305
Genderf*cation: The Gender Emancipation (film and discussion)
Genderf*cation: A Gender Emancipation is the story of individuals as they journey through the social, religious, and
political landscapes of a society that struggles to understand and accept gender variations. This film breaks through
gender stereotypes and historical gender ideologies to liberate our bodies, minds and spirits from our own social Gender
Dysphoria. Jen King
General Audience
LH 102
GLBT/GSRM in classical music
Does classical music have an image problem? While several genres of commercial music have increased the exposure of their
GLBT/GSRM artists over time, classical music continues in both commercial and educational venues to hide the GLBT/GSRM
status of its composers and performers, as if they were dirty secrets. Whose identities are being hidden, and why? Do gender
minorities experience special barriers to pursuing classical music, as opposed to other forms of music? Can these trends be
stopped, curbed, or mitigated? If so, how? Time will be available for both discussions and Q&A, so come and hear or talk
about these issues as you please! Alexandra Yang
General Audience
SU 410
I’m Beautiful, DAMMIT. Exploring Body Image
mirror the “acceptable” images that are forced upon us daily? Let’s discuss the pleasures and pressures of our obsession with
body image. Barbara Curry
Youth Only
SU 303
iBelong… In comedy!
Comedy is a way to tell a truth. Everyone has a truth to tell. The most important part of being a comic is wanting to make
people laugh and think and consider. You have to be smart to be funny and you have to be smart to get funny. If you have
ever thought, been told you are funny or see things in ways others don't, please consider yourself invited and give yourself a
chance. My world forever changed when I did 8 years ago. From Babysitter, Hairdresser, Jello Wrestling MC, Chambermaid,
Social Worker, Homeless Teen Center Director, Social Media Editor, Activist, True Colors Board Member, Auctioneer and
Comic working colleges, conferences, clubs and very special events. If you think it is for you and aren't sure or were part of
last years epic 'TransRico Meetup' :) fb or tweet me @ http://christineoleary.com Christine O'Leary
Youth Only
SU 325
Keepin’ It Safe and Sexy
You might hear the term “safer sex” a lot, but what does that really mean? In this workshop led by teens, discuss what safer
sex is, what makes it important, and how to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy.
S.T.A.R.S (Students Teaching about Responsible Sexuality)
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
42
Youth Only
LH 206
Media, Sexuality, Propaganda! The other side
Welcome to this youth led workshop on sexuality in media. Using film clips, activities, and discussion, we will explore the
evolution of how sexuality has been portrayed in the American media, and how it has shaped myths around sexual health and
sexuality. Jake Colavolpe; Jourden Hovendick; Daniel Woodberry
College
LH 201
Pariah
First time filmmaker Dee Rees delivers a stunningly effective portrait of a young Brooklyn girl whose conservative black family
cause her to bury her emerging sexual identity as a lesbian. This 27 minute short version of the film will be followed by a
facilitated discussion led by Fleurette King and Serginho Walker. Shana Clarke; Fleurette King
General Audience
LH 202
Remix My Life 2.0
This workshop will allow youth to learn about themselves and others using one of our most popular media types today, music.
Youth will be able to use music of their choice, whether it be a song title or song lyrics, to showcase their own skills, talents,
characteristics, or to just describe who they are as a person. After the youth chose what music represents themselves they
will have the opportunity to discuss with each other why they chose their music and learn about themselves and each one
another. Michael Pastore
General Audience
LH 301
Screw Sex: Asexuality for the Sexual World
Never heard about asexuality? Heard of it but have no idea what it is? This workshop covers the basics of this little known
sexuality, discusses the conflicts with it caused by our sexual culture, and has an open Q&A and discussion. Sarah Levine
General Audience
LH 302
Strategies for Youth Leadership through Youth-Adult Partnerships
This interactive workshop will provide participants with information on promising practices and research-based strategies for
involving youth in the design, planning, implementation and evaluation of community programs. Youth participants will have
an opportunity to share their ideas with adult participants and learn about the wide range of youth leadership and
empowerment programs in our state. We will share program assessment tools and resources to enhance program
effectiveness. The group will share recommendations for strengthening youth leadership roles and learn diverse strategies for
engaging ALL young people. A youth-adult team will facilitate the workshop and "youth voices" will be encouraged.
Deborah Stewart, B.S., CPP
Youth Only
LH 110
Tell Your Friends
This workshop will facilitate discussion with teens about commercial sexual exploitation and human trafficking. It provides
information on how students can guard themselves and their friends while breaking down myths and misconceptions of
prostitution and the media’s role in glamorizing the culture. Steven Procopio, ACSW, LICSW; Nicole von Oy, MSW
College
SU 304C
The F-Word and the Q-Word: Partnering Feminism and Queer Activism
Feminism is often a "dirty" word that will get you all sorts of attention and (some warranted) criticism. There's a reason it's
the other F-word! As a group of young, queer, feminist-identifying activists, we would like to dispel some of the rumors, false
information and blatant lies about the feminist movement, and how young queer activists can involve feminism and feminist
action in their work for change. At the same time, we would like to provide a critique of the movement from within, as the
mainstream movement has had a long history of racism, homophobia, transphobia, classism, and other bigotry. Rather than
claim everyone is a feminist or that feminism is for everyone, we would like to have an honest discussion about feminism, and
how it CAN be for everyone - as long as you choose it! Wynn Andino; Lynden Dolan; Jenn Donnelly; Isaiah Roby
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
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Activist Institute
SU 304A
Theater for Social Change: From Page to Stage in 75 minutes
Basic theater skills can help make speakers more confident, messages more artful and audiences more emotionally connected
to your work. In this interactive workshop, participabnts will learn basis performance principles to apply to their LGBT activist
work. Participants will learn to use theater exercise, writing prompts and group discussion to explore personal stories and
how they can inspoire constructive community dialogue. Evelyn Francis; Giftson Joseph; Julia Lillis
General Audience
SU 320
TransENDing Boundaries
Transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) communities, particularly youth, are underrepresented in discussions and
actions around LGBT inclusion. However, they are often targeted and discriminated against more than their LGB peers,
especially concerning issues of hate violence, homelessness, accessing nonjudgmental and quality healthcare, utilizing
restrooms/dressing rooms, and changing identity documents. In this workshop, Lambda Legal staff will offer an interactive
empathy-building and consciousness-raising activity, followed by an in-depth discussion of useful strategies and tools to
combat the aforementioned problems. This workshop is geared toward allies and members of TGNC communities, and is
appropriate for both youth and adults. Aron Cobbs, BA
LH 307
Transgender for Direct Care Workers: A 101 for Care
of Transgender Youth
This workshop will introduce to providers to the world of transgender as it relates to working with transgender children and
adolescents in care. The workshop will cover the basics of what’s transgender?, critical issues in providing care, development
of a safe environment for trans youth, and the impact of heterosexism and thinking outside the gender binary in agencies and
foster and residential care. Rev. Moonhawk River Stone, M.S., LMHC
Youth Only
SU 322
Under (De)Construction: Breaking Down the Gender Binary
Gender is awesome. It can also be extremely complicated, and that is what this workshop will explore. It will introduce
terminology for a range of gender identities, expressions and orientations--everything from transgender from intersex to
queer. We will explore the current gender system that operates in the US, and then break down the system and explore a
more inclusive model for gender. Do you want to know what this means? Do you have something to say about gender? Have
you never heard these words before? Come to this workshop! Ryan Ambuter, M.Ed; Kaethe Armitage
College
SU 312
Would You rather?
A Self-Facilitated Discussion (you run it!) using the game, Would You Rather, as a conversation starter Self-Faciliated
Want more information about a presenter?
Check out their bios beginning on page 52
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
44
Saturday, Session lll: 2:45 – 4:00 PM
Saturday Session III
General Audience
LH 108
2:45 - 4:00 p.m.
Various Locations
Bois will be Bois: The Art of Bending Gender as
Masculine of Center Person
Me&MyBois is a web series that provides a dialogue abut gender, injustice, and power. The dialogue provides visibility and
showcases the resiliency in gender non-conforming folks, as well as trans folks. Me&MyBois is a collective of masculine of center
folks creating media outlets for LGBTQ people. We break the silence created by racism, sexism, heterosexism, homophobia,
oppression and transphobia. This workshop will showcase the web series as well as provide a thought provoking dialogue
around gender and artistic expression. Megan Benton, MA; Lex Kennedy
College
SU 221
Cards Against Humanity: The Game
Unlike most of the party games you've played before, Cards Against Humanity is as despicable and awkward as you and your
friends. The game is simple. Each round, one player asks a question from a Black Card, and everyone else answers with their
funniest White Card. The session will be self-facilitated. Participants can simply play the game. OR, play the game while
exploring deeper questions such as: Why do we find stereotypes funny? What about this game makes us laugh and what
implications, if any, are inherent in the assumptions the game makes about us? Self-Facilitated
General Audience
SU 316/317
Community and Diversity
In the workshop we will inform and discuss the importance of recognizing and accepting difference and diversity, specifically
looking into the communities we are a part of. Our goal is for the participants to gain an understanding of the value of
community and the importance of being open-minded. Choose this workshop if you are interested in dissecting community
building activities, looking into personal experiences, and defining the structure of a community. Taylor Chapin;
Jasmine Gomez; Kylie Kuhn; Sweeney
Youth Only
LH 111
Consent & Healthy Sexual Relationships
What is consent? How do you ask for it? How do you know the difference between a no and a yes? This workshop will discuss
how to prevent sexual assault by promoting consent and healthy sexual relationships. We will use scenarios and interactive
activities to encourage LGBTQ youth to make healthy, safe, and respectful decisions around sexual activity and dating. This
workshop is adapted for True Colors from MECASA’s Educational Programs and SARSSM (Maine Coalition to End Sexual
Assault & Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine). Angela Giordano, BA; Amy Raina, BFA
Youth Only
SU 304C
Dangerously in Love: Navigating Relationships Today
Relationships can be great and complicated at the same time. In this workshop led by teens, discuss what a healthy
relationship is and learn how to evaluate different types of relationships. Participants will learn how to identify red flags in
relationships and manage conflict that may arise. There are many different types of relationships and we all deserve to be in
ones that are healthy and safe! S.T.A.R.S (Students Teaching About Responsible Sexuality)
General Audience
LH 201
Gender F**ked: An Open Dialog For Trans* Folks of All Stripes
For trans* people, moving through the world isn’t always easy. From coming out at work to negotiating pronouns to thinking
about names to finding ways to relate to our physical selves, many trans* people have to navigate complicated and
uncomfortable situations, sometimes without a map. But what does make it easier is connecting to others who share some of
these thoughts and experiences. Whether you live in or outside the gender binary, have identified as trans for 20 years or are
just beginning to question your gender, your story is important. Would you join us? This workshop aims to create
intergenerational dialog for trans* people in a safe space. Ryan Ambuter; Kaethe Armitage
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
45
General Audience
LH 109
How to be Gay in Russia
What's it like to be gay in Russia now? March 17, 2012 in St. Petersburg, passed a law against the promotion of homosexuality,
lesbianism, bisexuality and transgender minors. What is the background of what is happening and how to Russian activists
struggling with this situation: the action - "together stop homophobic law". Olga Aleksandrova, Ph.D
High School
SU 321
Love, Sex, Relationships and Dating
This is your chance to talk with other LGBTQ and ally youth about stuff you rarely get a chance to talk about: love, sex,
dating, relationships, where you meet each other, what life is like for you at home, at school, in your community… or
whatever else you want to talk about. This is your time! Nick Rossetti
SU 325
Making the Connection: Connecting with students who
have been marginalized
This presentation focuses on how to connect with students who are not comfortable in school, and who are hesitant to
connect with adults and others for a myriad of reasons. Students and advisors in GSA’s often face the challenging task of
working to connect with and support students who have never successfully connected with groups or teachers in schools. The
many contexts in which students experience difficulties connecting with others, and reasons why they have trouble
connecting, as well as ideas about how to connect with these students, will be covered in this session. Julie Alexandrin, Ph.D.;
Sandra Gallien, MSW, MBA
General Audience
SU 318/319
Mapping Identities
In this workshop we will be using different graphs and charts to deconstruct who we are, look at what identities we have, how
those identities intersect, and what that means for the big picture of ourselves. Join us in this workshop if you are interested
in thinking deeper about your own identities and how the intersect. Maia Buchanan; Dylan Dubay; Shayla Phillips
General Audience
SU 320
Packing Got You in a Bind?
In this workshop we will discuss every aspect - the how-tos, the what-not-to-dos, the where-to-gos - of binding and
packing. We'll finish with an awesome activity Layne Gianakos; Skylar Spear
College
LH 107
Queer Politics: A Movement Like No Other
The “gay rights” movement is unlike any other to come before. Globalization, technology, a 24-hour news cycle, and an
emerging generational shift have compressed progress to a time-scale that was inconceivable in the struggles for civil rights,
women’s rights, and other historic movements. This workshop explores the history of the struggle for LGBT equality against
other social justice movements, analyzes the “inflection points” that have sparked cultural and political shifts, and examines
both the opportunities and risks of the first social movement to advance in leaps and bounds rather than incrementally. An
examination of the current political environment and the role of swiftly changing attitudes and demographics in charting future
directions will lay the basis for identifying effective strategies and tactics. Participants will leave the workshop with a solid
understanding of the past, present and future of the fight for LGBT equality. Patrick Comerford; Louis Nemeth
General Audience
LH 202
Red Light, Green Light: Relationship Red Flags and Safety Planning
This workshop is designed to explore the red flags that the LGBTQ community, as well as allies, face in relationships. We will
discuss the signs of an abusive relationship - covering mental, physical, emotional and even financial abuse warning signs.
After discussing the "Red Flags" we will talk about how to safety plan for yourself or with others who may be at risk in their
relationships. Samantha Bayuk, B.S.; Jennifer Brown, B.S, M.S.
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
46
Youth Only
SU 304A
The Trevor Project's Lifeguard Workshop
Rather than a lecture, the Lifeguard Workshop is a structured conversation with middle school, high school and college age
youth regarding mental health, suicide, and healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety. The workshop informs youth of the
various services offered by The Trevor Project and guides them in a conversation of how to recognize the warning signs of
suicide and how to get help for themselves or a peer who may be feeling suicidal. The workshop ends by helping the
participants identify ways that they will seek to deal with stress and anxiety in a healthy way and how to identify supportive
adults in their own environment. Wes Nemenz, BA
General Audience
SU 410
We Can't Say No Until We Say YES!
What is that intimate thing all about? How do I say yes to consent? Well fear no more, this workshop will explore sexual
intimacy that allows you to communicate what you want, and how to get it while and to provide fun for you (and your
partner). We will discuss negotiation, communication, as well as "non-traditional" sexual and intimate activities. Alec Oarei
LH 307
What’s MY STORY, you ask? Creating and/or Accessing Stories
to Live Well By
Living well has a lot to do with the stories we tell ourselves. That’s especially true for marginalized peoples. Come and
discover the power and enchantment of telling your story in a way that inspires you and others. As people who often
experience severe challenges due to discrimination, violence, rejection, and isolation our story becomes mired in loss and
despair. How can we change “OUR STORY” and emerge whole and thriving? How do we keep creating and recreating OUR
STORY as our lives grow and change? Learn how! Rev. Moonhawk River Stone, M.S., LMHC
College
SU 303
What's Fun?, What's Hot?, What's Safe?, What's Not?
(18 and over only)
Join this interactive group activity discussing how to keep KINK safe. Bill Petrosky, MM; Donna Shubrooks, RN
General Audience
LH 110
Why Atheism?
What is atheism? What is skepticism? Is atheism a better alternative to religion? Are atheists and skeptics more or less
likely to express homophobic, heterosexist, and transphobic attitudes than religious people? Come to this workshop and
listen to our take on these and many more issues. Sebastian Correa; Alexandra Yang
General Audience
SU BALLROOM 330
You Know You Make Me Want to Dance!
Dance has been incorporated in almost every culture, how can we use it as a tool to express ourselves? Through learning
how to connect yourself with your feelings, your body, and your music you can free yourself. This workshop will use a
variety of styles of music, a few wacky dance moves, and an understanding of connecting your movements to your
feelings to become a wildly expressive piece of moving art. Absolutely no experience with dance is required, only a will to
move around a little bit! Kennedy Strakose-Hagen
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
47
Saturday Close and Conference After Hours
Saturday Closing Session
4:15 - 5:30 p.m.
A new day is upon us, and hip hop’s answer to the question “what happened to the
female rap game” is here. Blessed with the lyrical prowess to compete with the
hottest emcees in the business, and being touted as the female version of The
Neptunes, the female duo KIN4LIFE is a force. Together as a group for ten years and
friends for over fifteen, Nor and IQ have solidified their family ties and KIN4LIFE has
never had a truer meaning.
Andrea Paquin’s music embodies the term “Folk Rock”. Her songs tell vivid
stories using clever, memorable melodies and harmonies along with
captivating lyrics. And her sound has been compared to that of The Indigo
Girls, Melissa Etheridge, and Joni Mitchell.
Saturday After Hours
Saturday Drag Show:
6:00 - 7:15 p.m.
Hosted by Harlette LeFleur
Harlette LeFleur has been performing in the art of female impersonation for the last seven years at
numerous venues from night clubs and colleges to charity events. Her mix of outrageous twisted
humor and feminine beauty has made her one of Connecticut's drag culture's rising stars. She is
excited to return for a 6th year at the True Colors Conference. Also performing with Harlette will be
members of the Imperial Sovereign Court of All CT and some of the participants of the afternoon
Drag workshops.
Photo Courtesy of Kenn Hopkins Photographer
Saturday Youth Dance:
8:00 p.m. – Midnight
YOU MUST HAVE YOUR CONFERENCE LANYARD
TO GAIN ADMISSION.
NOTE: PARTICIPANTS WILL NOT BE ABLE TO BRING GUM, CIGARETTES OR LIGHTERS INTO THE BALLROOM.
Featuring DJ Ron Slomowicz www.djron.com
Mixing music, video, visuals and effects – it’s hard to define what Ron Slomowicz
with a single title. DJ, VJ, Me-J, DVJ, EJ are all a bunch of initials that really don’t
capture the energy of Ron’s unique live performances. As a leader in world of
cutting edge video mixing technology, Ron was the first entertainer in the United
States to use GrandVJ by Arkaos. Working a dual laptop system, Ron seamlessly beatmixes and blends music and video with
Virtual DJ and exports it to GrandVJ where he adds layers of visuals and effects - literally remixing the videos live. On stage with
two laptops, a piano keyboard, and a lit MIDI controller, the technology enhances DJ Ron's dynamic live performances. With his
cutting edge setup, Ron was featured in Club World, DJ Times and Remix magazines and has earned a nomination for Best
Resident VJ in the Club World Awards for his work at Play Dance Bar in Nashville, Tennessee. Follow Ron on twitter at @djron91
SU = Student Union
LH = Laurel Hall
COLL = 18+;
PROF = Adult
48
True Colors Conference Co-Sponsors
True Colors 20 Co-Sponsors
RAINBOW SPONSOR
The Rainbow Center
rainbowcenter@uconn.edu
(860) 486–5821
th
4 Floor, Student Union, 2110 Hillside Road, Storrs, CT http://www.rainbowcenter.uconn.edu/ The
Rainbow Centers serve the diverse community of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Allied
(GLBTQQA) community and provide resources and services to the wider community of students, faculty, staff, and
local residents. Outside of the informal, safe space where many come to hangout, socialize, check e-mail, complete
academic work, watch TV, and play games, we offer a of number programs to support our mission, such as our library
with over 2,700 books and videos, which will be soon to be searchable on the Homer Babbidge Library Catalog!
Through education and advocacy we aim to reduce the effects of alienation experienced by community members by
diminishing negative behaviors and attitudes toward the GLBTQQA community. In addition to our efforts, students
and other departments have established active campus groups to maintain a positive campus climate and community
support.
In an uncertain world, Travelers is an insurance leader, committed to keeping pace with the ever-changing needs of
our customers, and anticipating their needs for the future. There is no stronger testament to our dedication to
protecting customers from loss than our continued innovation and ability to transform our industry. Today, more
than 150 years after our founding, Travelers is one of the nation's largest property casualty companies. A component
of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Travelers has more than 30,000 employees, 13,000 independent agents and
multiple market segments across the personal, business, financial and international insurance groups. Travelers has
operations in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Lloyd's of London, and the Republic of Ireland. In Brazil, the
company also has a joint venture partnership with JMalucelli, Brazil's market leader in surety.
Platinum SPONSORS
GLSEN-(Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) strives to assure that each member of every school
community is valued and respected regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. We
welcome as members any and all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or
occupation, who are committed to seeing this philosophy realized in K-12 schools.
www.GLSEN.org/Connecticut
(203) 533-9613
The University of Connecticut's Neag School of Education is not only the #1 public graduate school of
education in the Northeast and the East Coast, it is ranked the 16th best public graduate school of
education in the U.S. We are also the home of the nation's #1 doctoral program in kinesiology ranked by
the American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education. Our reputation for quality was a key factor in
the Carnegie Corporation of New York's decision to select the University of Connecticut as one of 11
members of its prestigious Teachers for a New Era network.
Planned Parenthood of Southern New England is a trusted health care provider, an informed educator,
a passionate advocate, and a global partner helping similar organizations around the world. Planned
Parenthood delivers vital reproductive health care, sex education, and information to millions of
women, men, and young people worldwide. For more than 90 years, Planned Parenthood has
promoted a commonsense approach to women’s health and well-being, based on respect for each
individual’s right to make informed, independent decisions about health, sex, and family planning.
www.ppsne.org
(800) 230-PLAN
TD Bank is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S. But we're not like other banks. We're open early,
open late and we're even open weekends. We have FREE customer coin counting. We let people keep
our pens. And we even have dog biscuits for our four-legged guests. We work hard to create the best
experience for our customers. That's what it means to bank human. That's what it means to be
Americas Most Convenient Bank®.
49
True Colors Conference Co-Sponsors
GOLD SPONSORS
Everything we’re doing to be a stronger bank is designed to deliver a seamless, more efficient, customerfriendly experience. That means clear and straightforward banking, reliable products and services,
unmatched accessibility and security and friendly, knowledgeable employees. As both a global and local
resource, we’re able to offer smarter products and lower costs. When customers and clients need the
financial resources to pursue opportunities, we’re here to help. We want to be thought of as a powerful
source of prosperity for everyone
SILVER SPONSORS
CABO
www.thecabo.org
The Connecticut Alliance for Business Opportunities: Promoting the economic prosperity of Connecticut's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender
businesses CABO has three (3) membership levels based on number of employees and a non-profit membership. Benefits of membership vary but
include listings in the membership directory, discounts and special offers, spotlights at member events, member to member email blasts, etc.
Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective
The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective empowers individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities to lead healthy lives
through the provision of health and support services, education and advocacy.” The HGLHC provides a weekly STD clinic, a full-service dental clinic
for people living with HIV/AIDS and other HIV-related services including counseling and testing, a variety of LGBT support groups for people
exploring their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, a drop-in center (RainbowRoom) for LGBTQI youth, Queer Prom”, a college scholarship
program and host of positions in which to volunteer as well as information about and referral to a host of professional services, including medical
and mental health providers. www.hglhc.org or (voice/TDD) (860) 278-4163 email at: info@hglhc.org
National Association of Social Workers, CT
www.naswct.org
(860) 257-8066
The Mission of the NASW/CT Chapter is to advance, at the local and state level, the priorities of NASW, which are: 1. PRACTICE ADVANCEMENT (To
advance the quality of social work practice, improve the knowledge base required for such practice, and to promote professional development
related to improved practice.) 2. PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS (To promote the strength, unity and recognition of the social work profession and
the acceptance and utilization of its standards.) 3. SOCIAL POLICY AND ACTION (To promote and advance sound public policies and programs
aimed at human need and improved quality of life.) 4. MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATION (To improve the effective functioning of NASW as a national
organization and to improve the way in which it serves its members.)
PFLAG, Hartford
www.pflaghartford.org
(860)633-5111
(860) 231-8582 Transgender Issues
Parents, Families, & Friends of LGBT people. Hartford PFLAG meets on the third Wednesday at the Immanuel Congregational Church, 10 Woodland
Street in Hartford at 7:30 PM. Members publish a bi-monthly newsletter, provide help-line services, offer educational pamphlets, books and CDs
and work within the Greater Hartford are for LGBT-affirming families, safe schools, inclusive faith communities and informed lawmakers.
UCONN School of Business
http://www.business.uconn.edu
The mission of the School of Business is to be at the forefront in the development of managerial and business leadership competencies through
exceptional research, innovative experiential learning, and strategic outreach. We value a culture of team building and a learning environment
that encourages and rewards both path-breaking research and stimulating teaching. We believe in the life-long exchange of ideas and a respect
for the diversity of individuals, philosophies, and approaches. We promise our students a dynamic educational environment filled with
experiential learning that will challenge their intellect, enhance their skills, and prepare them for success in life as well as in the competitive
world of business. We promise our stakeholders a pipeline of talented and energized professionals who will create immediate value for their
organization and the communities they serve.
UCONN School of Nursing
http://nursing.uconn.edu/
UConn's School of Nursing has a timeless commitment to wellness and works to provide the exceptional education needed to succeed in this rapidly
evolving profession. The School's accredited program is committed to quality education, research and public service. Its faculty members advance
knowledge through excellence in scholarship and research as they work to remain abreast of the healthcare needs of the world's diverse population.
The School of Nursing's academic programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate College Nursing of the American Association of Colleges
of Nursing, the national accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
50
True Colors Vendors
True Colors Mall, Vendors and Resource Room
Check it out for posters, resource information, LGBTI “culture”, author signings and more!
AIDS Project Hartford
www.aidsprojecthartford.org
(860) 951-4833
AIDS Project Hartford improves the lives of people impacted by HIV through direct services, advocacy, and prevention. APH is the result of a meeting in March of
1985 of a group of gay men who met in a private home to develop a grass roots response to the medical and social problems posed by the AIDS epidemic. We
have remained one of the leading AIDS service organizations in Connecticut since that time and continue to change to fit the needs of the AIDS epidemic. We
depend on our skilled professional staff of twenty-eight people and more than 100 well-trained volunteers from all walks of life to serve people living with
HIV/AIDS or at risk for the disease in the greater Hartford area. The clients we serve today are more diverse and poorer than in the early days of HIV/AIDS, which
reflects the changes in the demographics of the epidemic.
American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut
www.acluct.org
(860) 523-9146
The ACLU is our nation's guardian of liberty, working daily in courts, legislatures and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties that
the Constitution and laws of the United States guarantee everyone in this country
ATTIC Youth Center
www.atticyouthcenter.org
(215) 545-4331
The Attic creates opportunities for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) youth to develop into healthy, independent, civic-minded adults
within a safe and supportive community, and promotes the acceptance of LGBTQ youth in society. The Attic is proud to be Philadelphia ’s only independent
LGBTQ youth center
CABO
www.thecabo.org
Promoting the economic prosperity of Connecticut's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender businesses, CABO has three (3) membership levels based on number of
employees and a non-profit membership. Benefits of membership vary but include listings in the membership directory, discounts and special offers, spotlights at
member events, member to member email blasts, etc.
Central CT State University LGBT Center
www.ccsu.edu/lgbt
(860) 832-2090
Student Center, 3rd floor, Rooms 304 – 305. The LGBT Center serves to provide a student centered, approachable and consistently staffed campus safe space
that focuses on resources for CCSU’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and ally community. These include providing programming and
networking opportunities, referral services, and maintaining a literary and periodical library. The Center also organizes trainings for the campus community on
the topic of LGBTQIA inclusion, resources, and services unique to this community.
Connecticut Outreach Society
www.ctoutreach.org
(860) 604-6343
The Connecticut Outreach Society (COS) is a support group for transgender individuals and their spouses or significant others. We provide a safe place for
transgender people to meet and socialize. COS meets twice a month in the Hartford area.
Connecticut Stonewall Foundation
www.stonewallspeakers.org
(860) 523-5799
Stonewall Speakers is a speaker’s bureau comprised of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people and allies. Engagements generally include two or more
panelists and combine personal life stories with a question and answer session. We speak with thousands of youth and adults annually in high school classes,
GSA’s, faculty meetings, college classes, or any group that asks for us.
Community Residences, Inc.
www.criinc.org
(860) 621-7600
CRI provides foster care, adoption and support services to children and adolescents in Connecticut. We are always looking for foster/adoptive parents, mentors
and people to help spread the word about the needs of CT's kids and teens!
Crossing the Middle Ground
crossingthemiddleground.com
(860) 798-5692
Creating Allies at your school takes more than just wishing things could be different. We work with GSA’s & Diversity clubs to help you create and sustain
lasting change against judgment and bias at your school or organization. Peace is a group effort!
DCF Office of Foster Care and Adoption Services
ctfosteradopt.com/
(860) 550-6307
LONGING TO BELONGING. When you foster or adopt, you change a child’s world. From a place by themselves to a place they can share. With you.
Donnelly/Colt Progressive Resources
www.donnellycolt.com
(860) 455-9621
Since 1975, Donnelly/colt has designed, distributed and offered custom printing services to progressive groups, activists, campaigns and projects. Human rights,
peace and justice, LGBT rights, environmental justice, social justice are among the issues covered on our buttons, stickers, shirts, posters, postcards, banners and
gifts. US made and Union-Printed. This is our 37th Year!
GLSEN
www.glsen.org
(203) 533-9613
GLSEN-(Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) strives to assure that each member of every school community is valued and respected regardless of sexual
orientation or gender identity/expression. We welcome as members any and all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or
occupation, who are committed to seeing this philosophy realized in K-12 schools.
Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective
www.hglhc.org
(860) 278-4163
HGLHC empowers individuals of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities to lead healthy lives through the provision of health and support services,
education and advocacy. The Health Collective provides a weekly clinic, a monthly women’s clinic, massage therapy, acupuncture, dental care, HIV-related
services including counseling and testing, support groups for people exploring their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, a youth LGBT support group, as
well as information and referral.
Inclusionary Solutions
www.inclusionarysolutions.org
LGBT inspired images and motivational quotes graphic designed on apparel, posters and canvas prints
(405) 315 7615
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True Colors Vendors
Individual Details
individualdetails@gmail.com
(207) 329-3615
Individual Details brings you queer, social justice, crafty items that are individual to your multiple identities. These t-shirts, magnets, buttons, patches and light
switch plates are created by a True Colors alum and presenter. From in-your-face to under-the radar, there is something for everyone. Visibility for your identity.
The Institute of Professional Practice, Inc.
www.IPPI.org
(888) 968-4489
The Institute of Professional Practice believes that every child, regardless of disability, age, race, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender
identity has the right to grow up in a family that respects and supports them. We commit to organizing our services and supports to enact this value. We
welcome as prospective parents; single persons, heterosexual couples, married and unmarried, gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals or couples
and multi-racial couples.
Klingberg Family Center/ Foster Care/Adoption
www.klingberg.org
(860) 224-9113
Klingberg Family Centers Specialized Foster Care and Adoption is a private, non-profit foster/ adoptive agency licensed by the Department of Children and
Families to recruit and train foster and adoptive families. Klingberg specializes in finding permanent homes for school age children (6-18 year old) who have
experienced trauma and loss. Making foster and adoptive placements successful for our children is our first priority. Our program places an emphasis on
identifying, training and supporting families who are willing to provide the special care that our children require. We are an open and affirming foster and
adoptive agency who values diversity and all types of families.
National Runaway Switchboard
www.1800runaway.org
(773) 289-1723
The National Runaway Switchboard, established in 1971, serves as the federally-designated national communication system for homeless and runaway youth.
Through hotline and online services, NRS provides crisis intervention, referrals to local resources, and education and prevention services to youth, families and
community members throughout the country 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The NRS crisis hotline is 1-800-RUNAWAY. NRS crisis hotline is 1-800-RUNAWAY.
For more information, visit www.1800RUNAWAY.org.
Planned Parenthood of Connecticut
www.ppsne.org
(203) 865-5158
The mission of Planned Parenthood of Southern New England is to protect the fundamental right of all individuals to manage their own fertility and sexual health
and to ensure access to the services, education, and information necessary to realize that right.
PFLAG, Hartford
www.pflaghartford.org
(860) 633-5111
Join us at our informal, confidential meetings on the third Wednesday of each month at the Immanuel Congregational Church, 10 Woodland Street in Hartford at
7:30 PM. Members publish a bi-monthly newsletter, provide help-line services, and maintain an up to date lending library of informational pamphlets, books and
CDs. We work within the Greater Hartford for LGBT-affirming families, safe schools, inclusive faith communities and informed lawmakers.
Pulse Integration
crossingthemiddleground.org
Working with students, teachers, parents and community organizations to create and sustain positive social change
(860) 798-5692
The Rainbow Center
rainbowcenter@uconn.edu
(860) 486–5821
The Rainbow Centers serve the diverse community of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Allied (GLBTQQA) community and provide
resources and services to the wider community of students, faculty, staff, and local residents.
Stand Up! Speak Out! On Bias and Bullying
Susan@standup-speakout.com
(609) 432-6346
STAND UP! SPEAK OUT! on Bias & Bullying is an interactive music-based presentation on ally building, bias awareness, and bystander empowerment.
Educator/saxophonist Susan Goodman opens ears and minds of even the savviest listeners with her compelling lyrics and eclectic blend of jazz, pop, Latin and
Afro-beat influenced original songs. K-12 assemblies, professional development, workshops, and community concerts. CDs, Study Guides and a resource-rich
website provide tools for continued learning long after this engaging presentation ends.
TD Bank
(888) 751-9000
TD Bank is committed to the strong support of the organizations and programs that enrich the lives of neighbors and communities at the heart of our business.
We are proud to be associated with those who share our passion for the continued prosperity and vitality of our diverse region
The Stonewall Speakers
coordinator@stonewallspeakers.org
(203) 492-9075
Stonewall Speakers, is an all volunteers speakers bureau comprised of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender people and their allies. Our speakers give their hearts,
time and travel expenses to help eliminate hate and promote understanding. Speaking engagements generally include two or more panelists and combine
personal life stories with a question and answer session. We speak to thousands of youth and adults annually.
Travelers
www.travelers.com/diversity
No two people see things the same, and we believe that’s important to our business’s future. We have dedicated ourselves to creating an insurance company full
of many perspectives with one like-minded goal—success. A diverse business needs employees with diverse ways of thinking, and every position at Travelers is as
unique as the person who fills it.
Triangle Community Center
http://www.ctgay.org/
(203) 853-0600
The Triangle Community Center, Inc. is a non-profit Connecticut corporation providing services to help strengthen the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender
community's sense of identity, pride and visibility. We work within greater Fairfield County to foster understanding and awareness of LGBT issues and life
True Colors Fundraising Table
ourtruecolors.org
(860) 232-0050
The conference costs a LOT more than we charge people. The fundraising table helps us cover some of those costs so that we don’t have to raise the price of the
conference. Buy early, buy often – your purchase helps us help youth!
Tony Ferraiolo
snart_art@yahoo.com
(203) 376-8089
Tony runs three different support groups. Translation for transgender youth; TransPACT for parents of transgendered youth; and Create Yourself, which is a
transgender youth art group. Email or call for further information.
University of CT, Admission Department
Interested in attending UConn? Chat with one of UConn’s admissions counselors and explore the details of the admission process. www.admissions.uconn.edu
email: beahusky@uconn.edu
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True Colors Vendors
Universalist Church of West Hartford
http://westhartforduu.org/
(860) 233-3669
The Universalist Church of West Hartford, CT, recognized by the Unitarian Universalist Association as an official Welcoming Congregation, celebrates and affirms
the presence of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons. The cloth hanging from our lectern features the rainbow, a symbol of our community diversity,
and the flaming chalice is our Unitarian Universalist symbol of freedom, hope, love and faith in action. We are an inclusive religious community whose center is
love. http://westhartforduu.org
Welcoming Congregations, Connecticut
Welcoming Congregations Connecticut identifies congregations in CT welcoming LGBTI people and their families in the full life of the congregation.
You can Fly Coaching
www.youcanflylifecoaching.com/
203-988-4063
Laura Grom is a Certified Life Coach who works with parents and teens who desire to move forward in a positive direction. She specializes in working with parents
of LGBT teens and teens themselves. Coaching offers a nurturing place where we create a plan and live the life you deserve. We will transform the blocks that
stand in your way to celebrate you and your journey forward. Through the process, you can work through a plan, get support, find answers within, discover your
true potential and get through hurdles that prevent you from being your best self. Please see her website for more information
True Colors 20 Presenters
Kim Adamski
(860) 486-0772
kimberly.adamski@uconn.edu
Kim Adamski volunteers as a UConn Sexpert. She is majoring in Healthcare Management, with a minor in Women's Studies. She is from Oxford, CT. She hopes to
earn a Master's Degree in Public Health. She works for the UConn Health Education Office and is an intern at the Windham AIDS Program in Windham, CT. Kim is
passionate about Women's Rights and teaching comprehensive sex education.
Maria Afouxenides, BS
(860) 954-6394
MAFOUXEN@travelers.com
Maria Afouxenides has worked at Travelers for 4 years and is in her 3rd year in the Insurance Operations Leadership Development Program. Maria is also the
Membership Chair of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Allies Network at Travelers. Maria graduated from the University of Hartford in 2007 while
also playing soccer there. In her free time she enjoys community service, playing soccer, endurance sports, snowboarding, other fun outdoor activities, spending
time with her family/friends, and going on beach vacations!
Kael Alberghini
A panromantic asexual, currently a sophomore at Simon's Rock college. His main focus in LGBTQ+ issues and conversation is the recognition of trans* identities
and asexuality.
Olga Aleksandrova, Ph.D
(475) 227-6436
alexxandrova@gmail.com
Holds a Ph.D. in psychology from St. Petersburg State University (SPSU), where my training focused on features representations of masculinity/femininity of
women with different sexual orientation. For over ten years, has been a consulting psychologist in the LGBT community of St. Petersburg.
Elsa Alexandrin
Elsa Alexandrin is an 8th grader from Gorham Maine. She is a part of her Middle Schools Civil Rights Team. Her mother Julie Alexandrin has been presenting at
True Colors for 11 years, whoooo. With her Civil Rights team she has presented many times about stereotyping through clothing at her school, that she and one
of her dearest friends had put together by them selves. She enjoys music very much and is a large part of her life. She also enjoys frolicking through fields with
her many friends, and watching sad movies with them. She hopes you enjoy your time at the most wonderful conference ever.
Julie Alexandrin, Ph.D.
(207) 228-8320
jalexandrin@usm.maine.edu
Dr. Alexandrin is an associate professor of Abilities and Disabilities Studies at the University of Southern Maine. Throughout her career, Dr. Alexandrin has
worked with youth with behavioral problems and/or mental illness, in both educational and non-educational environments. In addition, her research and
teaching addresses stereotyping and biases and creating safe environments for all. On Tuesday afternoons, Dr. A. co-leads the Gorham Middle School Civil
Rights Team. Dr. Alexandrin lives her children in Gorham, ME
Kimball Allen
Playwright, Kimball Allen has accomplished much in his life all before the age of thirty. After hitting the bottom of the world’s largest barrel, Allen has taken life
by the balls- harnessing his pains, hard-earned life lessons, and internal struggles for creative literary & dramatic works. Currently Allen resides in the Pacific
Northwest, where he finds it’s natural beauty to be the perfect environment for any playwright. His current solo-performance production of Secrets of a Gay
Mormon Felon’s national tour premieres June of 2012.
Ryan Amador
ryanamadormusic@gmail.com
Ryan Amador is a prolific young gay singer/songwriter and theatre-director raised in Los Angeles and currently based in Brooklyn. He has released two EP's
"Symptoms of a Wide Eyed Being" and "Palos Verdes", which are both available on his website, http://www.ryanamador.com/. His first full length record,
"Boy", will be released later this year. He has also directed and assistant directed theatre around the New York area for directors such as Elizabeth Swados, John
Jesurun, and Jenny Koons and received a B.F.A. from NYU Tisch School of the Arts.
Ryan Ambuter
ambuter@gmail.com
Ryan is a trans/queer high school English teacher who spends a lot of time thinking about how to live as authentically as possible. S/he loves social justice
education, particularly exploring gender and fat activism. Other things that take up Ryan's time are pottery, grading papers, and cycling.
Wynn Andino
(860) 337-1335
lyndendolan@gmail.com
Wynn Andino is currently a sophomore at the University of Connecticut, majoring in Sociology and Women's Gender & Sexuality Studies with a minor in Human
Rights. Wynn is currently a facilitator for My Pride, My Soul, a group for LGBTQIA people of color, which is run through the UConn Rainbow Center. This will be
her first year presenting at True Colors
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True Colors Presenters
Madelyn Ardito, BA
(203) 401-1611
madelynardito@gmail.com
Madelyn has worked with Collective Consciousness Theatre Company since November 2009. She serves as a grant writer, playwright, and workshop leader for
the company. She currently teaches theatre at Cooperative Arts and Humanities Magnet High School. Madelyn graduated from the University of Connecticut
where she obtained a B.A. in theater studies and a minor in women€™s studies. She received extensive hands-on training in her three years working for
Connecticut Repertory Theatre as assistant stage manager.
Julian Arias
(203) 424-8869
kyetra1@gmail.com
Julian Arias is the 2nd year Student Coordinator of GLSEN Connecticut’s Jump-Start Team. He is a Senior at Stamford High School and a leader of his school’s
GSA, HUGS. He has been instrumental in raising awareness of the issues LGBTQ middle school students face on a daily basis and is determined to make middle
schools safer.
Kaethe Armitage
kaetheisme@yahoo.com
Kaethe is a first year, trans* college student with radical, liberatory politics. He is one of the most creative people you will ever meet, and is an incredible youth
activist. When not fighting for justice he likes to drink tea, cut hair and bake without a recipe.
Luz Avila
Hi my name is Luz Aidalysse Avila. I am fourteen years old and a freshman at Metropolitan Business Academy. I love video games and music.
Henry Ayers-Brown
S.T.A.R.S. (Students Teaching About Responsible Sexuality) Member.
Hanna Bacha
Hanna Bacha is an eighth grader from Tolland Middle School, and this is her first year at GLSEN Connecticut. She is a member of the Jump-Start Student
Leadership Team and the first-ever middle school student to join the Student Org. Team.
Pun Bandhu, MFA
Pun Bandhu is a Yale School of Drama trained actor who has performed on Broadway, in TV and Film. A Peace Studies major while an undergraduate at
Washington University, he has long studied how acting training can lead to interpersonal growth. He has applied theatre modules to his work as a diversity
training consultant for almost 10 years, working hand in hand with companies such as Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Barilla,
and Macy's, among others. He has taught this particular "Conversations" workshop for managers at Google, Rolls Royce, and UBM.
Gladys Barahona-Ruiz
glbruiz1216@yahoo.com
Jeremiah Barclay
Student at Ellis Technical High School.
Pablo Barnes
Ternise Barrett
(203) 535-2176
bangabarrett@gmail.com
23 year old Stud identified female masculinity advocate and True Colors alumnae. Has worked with True Colors since the age of 15 and has been involved
with many of their events. Hobbies consist of dancing, writing poetry, writing and recording music, listening to music and photo/video editing. "Be the person
who like to smile and laughs when it isn't easy to" -Ternise B
Samantha Bayuk, B.S.
(203) 334-6154
sbayuk@cwfefc.org
Samantha received her B.S. in General Studies from Sacred Heart University began working at CWF in 2011. Samantha is an advocate for survivors of
domestic and sexual violence and works with men, women, and children regarding relationship red flags, safety planning, healthy/unhealthy relationships,
and coping strategies among other topics. Outside of her counseling and advocacy work with clients her main areas of outreach and interest include the
LGBTQQIA community and legislative affairs in Hartford, CT.
Megan Benton, MA
(424) 250-0559
meandmybois@gmail.com
Megan M. Benton is a therapist, activist, poet and entrepreneur. Megan is the LGBTQ Advocate and Trainer at Penny Lane Centers. Megan has facilitated
groups at the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center as well at LifeWorks, LGBTQ youth center. Megan hopes to use spoken word as a vessel to leave a legacy in African
American lesbian history. A member of the Brown Boi Project, Megan is also a co-founder of Theta Xi Theta Fraternity, Inc.
Jermaine Benton
Jermaine is an artist and a youth leader at The Attic Youth Center who is actively involved in the Peer Support and Prevention Programming and the Attic
Graffix printshop.
Megan Benton MA
(818) 220-3863
mbenton@pennylane.org
Megan M. Benton is a therapist, activist, poet and entrepreneur. She graduated from Antioch University with a Masters in Clinical Psychology with a LGBT
Specialization. Megan identities as an African American, masculine of centered, lesbian, boi. Megan is also the cofounder of a lesbian fraternity, Theta Xi
Theta Fraternity, Inc. Currently; she is the LBGTQ Advocate and Trainer at Penny Lane Center and a practicing Marriage and Family Therapist Intern. Her
talent for bringing people together to create thought-provoking dialogue has led her to facilitate groups at the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center as well as
Life Works, LGBT youth center. Over the years, Megan has been an active member in the community, assisting organizations such as the L.A. Gay and Lesbian
Center, the L.A. Food Bank, the Aids Project and she is currently a member of the Brown Boi Project. Megan has presented at The LAGPA Conference, The
Gay and Lesbian Medical Association Conference, The EDGY Conference, and Models of Pride. Megan has presented on the topics of Creating a Collaborative
LBGTQ Brave Space at Your Agency, Gender and Racial Justice and Transforming Mental Health for Brown Bois.
54
Fern Berman
Fern@fernberman.com
Fern Berman has spoken of behalf of Stonewall Speakers as well as other GLBT organizations. Professionally, Berman has nurtured and cultivated the careers
of such luminaries as Julia Child, Mark Bittman and Jean-Georges Vongerichten and institutions such as Le Cirque and Bellagio, Las Vegas. While Fern Berman
Communications is celebrated as one of NYC's elite public relations companies, it is Berman's personal philosophy that has one exceptional media attention
for her incomparable list of clients. Fern Berman has been instrumental in various volunteer efforts including Share Our Strength, God's Love We Deliver,
Hospice. etc. She has also worked on fund raising campaigns for Public Broadcasting. She was a founding member of Windows of Hope after 9/11. She served
on the board of AIWF and Love Makes a Family. Fern Berman’s award-winning modernist photography is in the collections of (among others) New Britain
Museum of American Art, Buhl Collection, Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven, Wesleyan University. Upcoming in 2013: Solo photography exhibition
at the New Britain Museum of American Art <http://nbmaa.org/>
Jill Bernstein, M.D.
(860) 545-9520
jbernst@ccmckids.org
Dr. Bernstein works in the Departments of Urology and Nephrology. She is the co-medical director of the GUPPE (genetics, urology, psychology, psychiatry,
endocrinology) Program for the treatment of disorders of sexual differentiation and gender dysphoria. She is also the Prenatal Center coordinator which
allows for collaborative prenatal patient management. Dr. Bernstein provides non-surgical urologic care and case management. Her interests include voiding
dysfunction, UTIs, reflux disease, hydronephrosis, disorders of sexual development, and gender dysphoria.
Kristin Bertsch, M.A.
knb208@Lehigh.EDU
Kristin Bertsch received her MA at Arcadia University and is currently pursuing her PhD in Counseling Psychology at Lehigh University. Her research interests
include sexual minority populations. Specifically, her qualifying project investigated the relationship between perceived sexist discrimination and
psychological distress with a sample of lesbian and bisexual women of color. Kristin's dissertation examines coping as a mediator in the relation between
discrimination and mental health with a sample of bisexual individuals.
Jessica Bibeau (860) 428-2249
GSA Advisor at Ellis Tech.
jessicabibeau@yahoo.com
Melissa Bickford
Melissa.Bickford@ct.gov
Melissa Bickford, LMFT is a Supervising Clinician, Young Adult Services in Bridgeport. She has 27 years experience working within Department of Mental
Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) as well as experience working professionally with the LGBT community in DMHAS and private practice. Melissa
initiated the first GSA group within Southwest Connecticut Mental Health System 6 years ago. She is committed to offering education to her colleagues
regarding the specific needs of members this community. Vital to this end has been her efforts to network outside of DMHAS to bring in resources that will
educate and support both staff and clients.
Sam Bodian
Sam is a sophomore at Metropolitan Learning Center. This workshop is an extension of her International Baccalaureate Personal Project.
John Boiano
(860) 798-5692
jboiano@snet.net
John is a dynamic motivational facilitator who has a unique approach for working with students and faculty alike. He specializes in “connecting the dots” with
peer-to-peer and teacher to student relationships. John’s ability to break through the rhetoric while motivating participants to new levels of awareness and
accountability is as creative and thought provoking, as it is compassionate. He focuses on creating sustainable positive school cultures with an emphasis on
motivating bystanders to become allies.
Blake Boles, BA
(203) 871-9738
yourstruly@blakeboles.com
Blake Boles is an author, entrepreneur, and educator. He owns and operates Unschool Adventures, the travel company for self-directed teens. Blake
currently lives in Asheville, North Carolina, and he travels widely. He is 30 years old.
Ana Borja
1 (347) 388-4944
anaborja20814@hotmail.com
Early Admittance to college at the age of 17. Communications director of Latino Student Alliance. Dean's List every semester. Double major in Political Science
and Photography. Spanish tutor.
Taffy Bowes, LCSW
(203) 421-3293
earthsave850@sbcglobal.net
Taffy Bowes is Assistant Director of Madison Youth and Family Services. She facilitates a Peer Advocate Program involving more than 134 high school
students, facilitates W.O.W. - a girls group, G.A.S.P. - a gay-straight alliance, and “Perspectives”- an interracial/interfaith group of high school students who
write and present programs about hate language.
Bob Brex, M.A.T.
Bob Brex was one of the original incorporators and the first President of the Board of Directors of True Colors. In 1998, he was honored with the Bayard Rustin
Award for Community Organizing from the CT Coalition for GLBT Civil Rights. Bob is Executive Director of NECASA a community anti-drug coalition in NE CT.
David Bridges MAT
New London High School English teacher. GSA advisor, past 6 years.
Erica Bromley
Erica has been the Director of Youth Services for Manchester, CT since 2005. Over the last several years, Erica has been facilitating multiple local, regional,
and statewide community planning processes using the Results Based Accountability (RBA) Framework. She continues to work closely with the Connecticut
State Department of Education. Erica is a member of the CT Youth Services Association, and is currently the Vice President and Chair of the Advocacy
Committee.
Jennifer Brown, B.S.
(203) 334-6154 x16
jbrown@cwfefc.org
Jennifer received her B.S. in Psychology from Sacred Heart University and M.S. in Neuroscience from the University of Hartford. She began her work in the
field at a group home for teenage girls in Danielson, CT in 2004 and in 2006 started at CWF as a crisis advocate. She is presently the Coordinator of Advocacy
and Crisis Services at CWF. Jennifer’s outreach areas include the LGBTQQIA community, medical advocacy, and a safe haven for pets.
55
Sophia Buchanan
I'm a seventeen year old who loves to talk about Body Image, The Media, and what it's like to feel an outcast. I love music and food and meeting new people.
Also, I think that hot chocolate is a hug in a mug.
Maia Buchanan
Maia is a sassy 10th grader whose jam is to be in social justice club and educate others. She is excited to be at True Colors this year.
Rev Nancy Butler, MDiv, MBA
(860) 430-2140
nancy@riverfrontfamilychurch.com
Nancy made Jesus her Lord and Savior at Bible Camp when she was only 9 years old. She grew in faith through evangelical churches for many years but
always questioned the conservative social teachings. In her early 30s, she finally left conservative evangelical Christianity, raised her children in a UCC church,
went to Yale Divinity School, got ordained as an American Baptist minister, and started a new kind of church in Glastonbury, CT. Riverfront Family Church is
the only affirming evangelical church in New England.
Paola Chanes-Mora, B.A.
(860) 486-0791
paola.chanes-mora@uconn.edu
Paola Chanes-Mora is a Graduate Assistant in the Health Education Office and is completing her Master’s Degree in Public Health at the University of
Connecticut in 2013. She obtained her B.A in religion from Boston University. Paola plans to use her multicultural studies, public health and science
background to help develop international sexual health education programs.
Taylor Chapin
Taylor loves cats, she loves every cat, she wants to hug them all, she loves cats in baskets with bows and rainbows. She has been educating people about
social justice issues for years and is excited to be at True Colors again.
Lauren Chicoski BS
(203) 565-1208
lauren.chicoski@gmail.com
Lauren Chicoski has a BS in Anthropology from Southern Connecticut State University and has been the Secretary on the Board of Stonewall Speakers since
2008 and a member since 2007.
Courtney Churchill
Alberto Cifuentes, Jr. BA
(203) 583-7223
albertocj@studentorganizing.org
Alberto Cifuentes, Jr., is the Adult Coordinator of GLSEN Connecticut€™s Student Organizing Team, composed of the three-year old Jump-Start Student
Leadership Team and the first-year Students of Color Organizing (SOCO) Team. He has volunteered for the chapter for almost nine years and is committed to
empowering youth to achieve social justice through peer-to-peer education, leadership, and civic engagement.
Shana Clarke
Shana Clarke is a graduate assistant in the office of the Vice President of Student Affairs. She coordinates Huskies Away From Home, serving UConn’s out-ofstate and international first year and transfer students; aids alumni efforts; and instructs the course, Introduction to Student Affairs: Preparation and Practice.
Shana has completed a B.A. in Sociology/Anthropology and Gender, Women, & Sexuality Studies from Gustavus Adolphus College; and is currently
completing a M.A. in Higher Education & Student Affairs.
Aron Cobbs BA (212) 809-8585 x281
acobbs@lambdalegal.org
Aron Cobbs currently serves as Community Educator in the National Headquarters Office of Lambda Legal, the oldest and largest national legal organization
committed to achieving full equality for lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and people with HIV. Formerly at the American Civil Liberties Union
(ACLU), Aron has over five years of professional experience working within national legal organizations to protect the civil and human rights of TLGBQ and
HIV-affected communities, people of color, women, youth and the economically disadvantaged.
Jake Colavolpe
Edwin Colon JD, MSW
(203) 223-8975
ecolon@kidscounsel.org
Edwin Colon is a staff attorney at the Center for Children’s Advocacy. He works with teen clients in Fairfield County, helping to resolve legal issues that
prevent youth from achieving academic success. He holds a JD from University of Connecticut School of Law, and a MSW from University of Connecticut
School of Social Work. He has worked with the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Casey Family Services, and with the Department of Children and Families.
Patrick Comerford
(203) 824-8588
patrick.comerford@ppsne.org
Patrick Comerford manages online organizing and social media at PPSNE. He has been active in queer politics since 2008, serving as statewide campus
coordinator for ctEquality, which added gender identity and gender expression to Connecticut’s non-discrimination laws. Comerford was instrumental to
PPSNE’s successful 2012 independent expenditure campaign to elect Chris Murphy. His trainings have emphasized the intersection of queer identity and
reproductive justice. This is his fourth time presenting at the True Colors Conference.
Sebastian Correa
(203) 571-8584
sebaseba88@gmail.com
Sebastian Correa is a sophomore at the University of Connecticut studying economics and English. He is the president of the UConn Freethinkers Club, a club
for atheists, agnostics, skeptics, and anyone who desires to learn more about secular topics.
Lyndon Cudlitz
(207) 329-3615
campoutmaine@gmail.com
Lyndon Cudlitz is the Creator/Director of CampOUT, an LGTBQA youth retreat in Maine. Lyndon has been mixing social justice with social awkwardness since
his teen years. As a social justice activist, sexuality educator, and rock climbing instructor, Lyndon brings many perspectives to his work. Lyndon’s also an
artist - so stop by his table in the True Colors Mall!
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Barbara Curry
barbcurry@mindspring.com
Barbara Curry is an Emmy Award winning television Director and part-time advocate for Gender Equality. She is a frequent speaker in classrooms and at
corporations. She is a voracious conversationalist and listener. A long-time supporter of True Colors, she is the “Diva of Technology” as well as a workshop
presenter.
DaJavon Davis
860-759-5097
dajavon.davis@gmail.com
DaJavon is a grad student at Fairfield University studying Marriage and Family Therapy. In Spring 2011, while he was in undergrad at Emmanuel College, he
joined the Illustrious Kaptivating men of Kappa Psi Kappa Fraternity Inc. In his new role as "Mr. Kpsi," DaJavon hopes to create a well established chapter full
of educated, strong men who want to give back to their community.
Lori Davison, MA
(860) 231-9667
ldavison@gmail.com
Lori Davison, M.A., is an educator, GSA advisor, and activist for LGBT youth. She is an active member of PFLAG, a volunteer for the Hartford Gay and Lesbian
Health Collective, and a member of Stonewall Speakers, whose volunteers share personal stories to eliminate hate and promote understanding. Lori has
raised funds for Camp Aranu'tiq, a camp for transgender and gender non-conforming children, and has been a Panel Speaker for TransPACT, a support group
for parents of transgender children.
Eva Dayon BA
(860) 334-9356
edayon_8185@email.ric.edu
Eva Dayon identifies as a female-bodied, genderqueer anarcho-feminist who uses gender neutral pronouns. Ze attained a B.A. in Anthropology and Secondary
Education from Rhode Island College. Ze is currently an activist and educator, functioning out of Rhode Island.
Aubrey DeCarlo BA
ald508@lehigh.edu
Aubrey DeCarlo is a current Ph.D candidate in Counseling Psychology at Lehigh University. She has worked as the graduate assistant in LGBTQIA services and
the Rainbow Room and served as president of the LGBTQIA graduate group, and has coordinated the Lehigh Valley Queer Prom as well as a regional
conference for LGBTQIA students. Aubrey is currently working on her dissertation, which focuses on attitudes towards LGBT issues and gender roles within
Greek Social Organizations.
Celina Deng
(203) 751-7652
dengcelina@gmail.com
Celina Deng is a Sophomore at Amity High School and a member of GLSEN Connecticut€™s SOCO Team. She loves to volunteer and has been secretary of her
class€™s class council since her Freshmen year.
Taylor Deschene
(860) 819-6825
tdeschene95@gmail.com
Taylor Deschene is a 17 year-old lesbian at E.O. Smith High School. She understands the difficulty of coming out and is familiar with being gay as a teenager in
high school without support. Even though her family has been supportive, she is passionate about creating support and space for the LGBTQ high school and
middle school teenagers. Currently, Taylor is completing an internship at the University of Connecticut Rainbow Center.
Michele Devine, MA
Michele has been the Executive Director of SERAC since 2005. Prior to coming to SERAC, she worked as a Counselor and Health Educator on a variety of
college campuses and at a therapeutic high school. She earned her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Springfield College in 1998. Michele has
extensive knowledge and experience working with community groups, youth, and parents. She is certified to train a variety of evidence-based, data driven
prevention curriculums. She works closely with Regional and State organizations to address the need for more support and funding for prevention efforts.
Roberto Diaz
(860) 794-7737
robertoelidiaz@aol.com
Roberto Diaz is the Student Coordinator of GLSEN Connecticut’s Students of Color Organizing (SOCO) Team. He is a Senior at Vinal Technical High School and
is an officer of both his school’s GSA and Diversity Club. He excels in sharing his story of how he faced and overcame homophobia and racism in school and
will utilize this skill to create SOCO’s first-ever web resource for LGBTQ students and their allies.
Desiree DiLallo BA
(203) 334-6154
ddilallo@cwfefc.org
Desiree DiLallo is a Community Educator at The Center for Women and Families of Eastern Fairfield County. Last year the Community Education department
presented workshops to over 8,600 kids in the Eastern Fairfield County Area. She graduated from The University of Connecticut in 2011 with a Bachelors of
Arts in Sociology and Women's Studies.
Gerald Dillenbeck MPA, M. Div.
(860) 243-1806 x14
gdillenbeck@covenanttocare.org
Gay male dad of 4 AA kids, 3 with special needs, 1 who declares himself as "Bi", and a 20-year domestic partner. Research and Grants Manager at Covenant
to Care for Children, a state-wide CT agency responding to basic and developmental needs requests for kids at-risk of maltreatment. Currently involved in
child welfare analysis to improve maltreatment prevention, cost-effective service delivery, and international human rights compliance.
Sophie Dillon
Ryan DiMartino
erd283@nyu.edu
James DiPisa Ph.D.
Dr. DiPisa leads a team of dynamic and experienced assessment professionals. He has been a licensed psychologist for 30 years. He also holds standard
certification in school psychology in Connecticut. Dr. DiPisa is experienced in diagnosing and advocating for children with educational difficulties. He holds
special interests in working with families, individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and, individuals with gender identity disorders.
John Dodig
203-341-1201
jdodig@westport.k12.ct.us
John began his career as a 7th and 8th grade math teacher in New Haven. He became an administrator in Madison, CT them moved to Cheshire High as the
Principal. John spent eleven years a Principal of Fairfield High School before coming to Westport. After receiving his masters degree from Fairfield University,
John spent more than a year teaching at The University of Al-Hikma in Baghdad, Iraq. After being overrun by Saddam Hussein's army and forced to leave the
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country, John chose to hitch-hike around the world. It was this trip through some of the most impoverished parts of the world that changed his life and
helped him decide to be a teacher. He is now completing his ninth year as Principal of Staples High School where they work as a team of educators to
maintain an environment that is free of prejudice and supportive of difference
Lynden Dolan
(860) 337-1335
Lynden Dolan is a non-traditional student at the University of Connecticut, majoring in English and Women, Genders and Sexualities studies with a minor in
Diversity in American Studies. A young activist and genders and sexualities nerd, Lyn is beginning to expand zir horizons and identifies with trans feminism,
and both the radical queer and sex positive movements. Lyn is a life-long resident of Connecticut, loves writing poetry, reading young adult fantasy novels,
and arguing queer pedagogy. Ze prefers ze/zir and they/them but will happily answer to any pronoun.
Austin Donnelly
Jenn Donnelly
(860) 337-1335
Jenn is a senior undergraduate student in Psychology at the University of Connecticut. She participates as a volunteer staff at the Rainbow Center and is a
teaching assistant for the Women's Center's Violence Against Women Prevention Program. This is her second year presenting at the True Colors Conference.
Aubri Drake, MSW
(860) 262-2188
bluewolf66@gmail.com
Aubri Drake is a genderqueer transmasculine individual. They have a Master’s in Social Work from the UConn School of Social Work where they focused on
clinical work with children and teens. They have worked in translational teen pregnancy research for the past 2 years and also as a therapeutic mentor for
LGBTQ youth in DCF care for the past 4 years. Outside of work, they enjoy reading, running, hiking, biking, and crochet.
Teo Drake
(860) 917-7137
teo.drake@gmail.com
Teo Drake is a yoga and martial arts teacher, educator, and activist. As a queer-identified trans man living with AIDS, he has 101 reasons to not want to be
present in his own skin. The physical and spiritual practice of yoga and Buddhist traditions made it possible to begin to heal and feel at home in his own body.
As a yoga teacher, he works mainly with adults and children who do not have access to mainstream yoga venues for a variety of reasons. As an activist and
educator, he works with institutions to increase queer and transgender individuals' access to care.
Dylan Dubay
Dylan is a 7th grade student who loves to perform. He also enjoys hanging out with friends and loves to party!
(860) 848-2800
serac.cc@sbcglobal.net
Ms. Duhaime has been the Community Coordinator at the Southeastern Regional Action Council since 2007. Prior to her work there she served as a Youth
Involvement Coordinator for Families United for Children’s Mental Health and the Coordinator of the Preston Youth Services Bureau. She has also worked in
direct care positions for community based services. Her background of experience and education encompasses the field of mental health and substance
abuse across the spectrum of prevention and treatment.
Kelli Dunham
kellidunham@gmail.com
Kelli Dunham (kellidunham.com) is everyone's favorite ex-nun genderqueer nerd comic. Kelli was one of Velvet Park Magazine’s 25 Significant Queer Women
of 2011 and was named to the 2012 Campus Pride Hotlist. Kelli was also given the Fresh Fruit Festival Award for Distinction in stand-up comedy, although
Kelli has never before or since been called distinguished. Kelli is a registered nurse and the author of four books of humorous non-fiction, including two
children’s books being used by Sonlight conservative home schooling association in their science curriculum. Her fifth book, Freak of Nurture, a collection is
humorous essays is being released by Topside Press in Spring 2013.
Cameron Duplessis
(860) 395-7878
cdduplessis@snet.net
Cameron Duplessis is a former University of Connecticut student and is interested in sexual identity and fluidity.
Kelsey Dutta
kelsey.dutta@uconn.edu
Kelsey Dutta facilitated a freshman First Year Experience Class at UConn, Storrs where it was her responsibility to foster discussion and provide insight as
necessary to help students transition to their new curriculum, environment, and campus life. The training for this experience involved a 3-credit Peer
Mentoring and Leadership course last spring and a weekly practicum meeting with other facilitators to share and compare experiences
Inez Eaton
(860) 550-6570
Inez.Eaton@ct.gov
Inés Eaton, MS, is a Social Work Supervisor for Department of Children and Families (DCF) where she has worked for 15 years. Before moving to her current
position in the Division of Adolescent and Juvenile Services, Inés worked at the DCF Hartford area office for six years as an Investigation and Treatment Social
Worker for the Sexual Abuse/High Risk Units. She later served as the first Detention Liaison for the Hartford Juvenile Detention Center. She currently
supervises DCF Court and Community Liaisons out-posted to Juvenile Courts in Hartford, Rockville, New Britain, Waterbury, Torrington, and Danbury. She
manages contracted services as well as interagency coordination efforts for court-involved children.
Amanda Eckert
(203) 561-2048
eckerta@my.easternct.edu
Amanda is a communications major at Eastern Connecticut State University. She is currently the public relations officer for the campus GSA and active in the
campus news. She is terrible at breaking open a piñata, she always breaks the stick.
Kara Ellsmore
Kara Ellsmore is an 8th grader at Gorham Middle School in Maine. She is a proactive vegetarian who wants to be a vegan, but her mother won’t let her. She
loves pigs and wishes she could be surrounded by them constantly. She dreams of living in the city, being a vegan, and becoming an environmental scientist.
She hopes you enjoy the presentation.
Lindsay Emblidge
(860) 460-9838
emblidgel@my.easternct.edu
Lindsay is a sophomore at Eastern Connecticut State University. She is a social work major who has been involved in her campus GSA since the first meeting
of her freshman year. She is currently vice-president of the GSA and is an amazing mud volleyball player.
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Alida Engel
(203) 397-3224
alidaengel@sbcglobal.net
I have been a speech pathologist for over 42 years and have worked with the LGBT population for over 6. Voice is one of my specialties, and it was a natural
progression for me to begin helping transitioning patients find the new voices they want.
Ashleigh Eubanks , BA
(860) 695-3006
ashleigh.eubanks@gmail.com
Ashleigh Eubanks is an AmeriCorps Vista member serving in Hartford as a Homeless Youth Coordinator. Ashleigh's goals for this year include a mixture of
advocacy, outreach, and research around the issue of unaccompanied youth homelessness. She has worked with this population before and is very
passionate about youth empowerment. Ashleigh graduated from Mount Holyoke College in May 2012 with a Bachelor's degree in Gender Studies.
James Ezzes
(203) 227-4861
jimezzes@att.net
Jim Ezzes is a business professional in the construction business. A former entertainment executive, Jim completed the Mentoring program and is a strong
supporter of True Colors.
Tony Ferraiolo, CPC
(203) 376-8089
snart_art@yahoo.com
Tony Ferraiolo (www.tonyferraiolo.com), a Certified Life Coach and Transgender Youth Advocate in New Haven , CT, is founder of several groups (including
Translation and Create Yourself) that support transgender and gender non-conforming youth and their families. Tony is the Co-Founder and President of the
Jim Collins Foundation (www.jimcollinsfoundation.org), a nonprofit organization that raises money to fund gender-confirming surgeries. He has also
organized to deliver over 100 binders to FTM transyouth in need around the world.
Karla Figuereo
KFiguereo@usj.edu
Karla is a Dean’s List Junior at the University of Saint Joseph majoring in Social Work with a concentration in Latino Community Practice. She received an
Associate Degree in Human Services from MxCC and has a background in Music Education from the University of New Haven and Central Connecticut State
University. Karla is a native of Dominican Republic and immigrated to the US in 1989 where she learned to integrate two diverse cultures.
Katie Flynn, BA
knit.it.forward@gmail.com
Katie Flynn is one of the founding members of Riot Prrl, a knitters' league for positive mischief. She loves copious amounts of glitter, using found objects in
her art, and is currently pursuing a degree in Library Science.
Tracy Follert
TracyEFol@gmail.com
Tracy is a senior at the University of Saint Joseph majoring in social work. She has volunteered at the True Colors conference for the past two years and
thought it was finally time to facilitate her own workshop! In her spare time, she likes horseback riding, doing things outside, and journaling. She is also
fluent in sign language, so feel free to ask her some signs!
Melody Forrester, Esq.
(267) 252-0186
mforrester@artists1st.net
Blessed with the lyrical prowess to compete with the hottest emcees in the business, and being touted as the female version of The Neptunes, the female
duo KIN4LIFE is a force. Together as a group for ten years and friends for over fifteen, Nor and IQ have solidified their family ties and KIN4LIFE has never had a
truer meaning
Evelyn Francis
(860) 617-661-1600, x 301
evelyn@thetheateroffensive.org
Evelyn Francis, Director of Programs at The Theater Offensive, has been a True Colors teaching artist for 9 years. She holds a master’s degree in theater
education from Emerson College and a BEST certificate in Youth Work. In addition to her work with TTO, Evelyn has served as an arts manager and theater
teaching artist at community organizations throughout Greater Boston. Along with overseeing the daily operations of True Colors and leading the long-term
visioning and planning, she teaches the summer program and advanced training program for True Colors
Jill Franco, M.Ed.
jillfranco@gmail.com
Jill Franco received her M.Ed. in Counseling and Human Services at Lehigh University, where she served on the Council for Equity and Community, as well as
the MLK Convocation planning committee. She has trained faculty, staff, and students at both the high school and university levels in creating safer spaces for
LGBTQI folks, including transgender-specific trainings. She currently works in education as a high school Advanced Placement Psychology teacher and advisor
for her school’s Gay-Straight Alliance.
Sandra Gallien, MSW, MBA
(860) 272-0277
Sandra Gallien is a social worker with focus and training in social work policy. She has a MSW from UCONN School of Social Work and has worked at the
United Way of Connecticut for over 10 years. Personally and professionally she has been involved in the mental health field since enrolling in college in 1975.
She works to help people advocate for themselves and, when necessary, intervenes on their behalf. She works with a multitude of populations, including
people who are developmentally challenged and children.
David Garnes
www.makingspaceconsulting.com
David Garnes is freelance writer, lecturer, and discussion facilitator. His most recent book is FROM MY LIFE: TRAVELS AND ADVENTURES, a collection of 22
essays available at amazon.com or directly from him at (davidgarnes@msn.com). In addition to his writing activities, he has been a house manager and a
guide and trainer at the Emily Dickinson Museum in Amherst MA. David also leads book discussion groups for the Connecticut Humanities Council at public
libraries and other venues around the state
Kelly Garrett
401-863-3495
kelly_garrett@brown.edu
Kelly Garrett is the Program Director of the LGBTQ Center at Brown University. She received her M.Ed. in Social Justice Education from the University of
Massachusetts, Amherst where she specialized in teaching about issues of Racism, Heterosexism and Ableism. She has been working in the field of Campus
Life/Student Affairs for 20 years and has been providing direct support services and leadership development to LGBTQ students and allies for over 14 years,
first as the Assistant Director of LGBT Affairs at the University of Michigan (now Spectrum Center) and in her current position at Brown. In addition to her
work in Student Affairs she has taught Social Justice Education courses at the University of Michigan, the University of Massachusetts and Brown University.
Layne Gianakos
layne.gianakos@gmail.com
Layne worked for GLSEN in high school. With GLSEN Connecticut, he launched the statewide Jump-Start Student Leadership Team. He's been presenting
workshops since 2008. Currently, Layne is studying psychology in New York City and has a lovely apartment with a red couch. He works for Original Plumbing
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magazine and Mike Ruiz. When avoiding essential work, he spends his time cooking, cleaning, and watching The Real Housewives of NYC. He also enjoys
watching videos of cockatoos.
Jonathan Gillman, BFA
In addition to being the Director of Looking In Theatre, Jonathan Gillman is the head of the theater department at the Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts.
He is also a published writer. His book of poems "My Father, Humming" recently came out from Antrim House Books.
Angela Giordano, BA
(207) 828-1035
angela@sarsonline.org
Angela Giordano is a violence prevention educator at Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine (SARSSM) and has a dual BA degree in Literatures
in English and Gender and Women’s Studies from Connecticut College. She began at SARSSM as an intern where she completed outreach and resource
projects for the agency and started her career there as the volunteer coordinator and an educator in August of 2011. Angela’s roots in violence prevention
education stem from her background in gender and women’s studies and her involvement as a peer educator on issues of sexual assault, stalking, and dating
violence in her time at Connecticut College. She will soon be a full-time educator at SARSSM and will assist with curricula development focused on sexual
assault prevention and healthy relationships.
Jasmine Gomez
Jasmine is very excited about her birthday and turning 15. She enjoys educating people about bullying and self-harm awareness. She speaks her mind and is
excited to be at True Colors this year.
Thomas Goodkind Ph.D.
(860) 974-1814
Tom, a professor of Curriculum and Instruction at the University Of Connecticut Neag School Of Education, is very interested in diversity issues and concerns.
He teaches media literacy as well as courses dealing with elementary school children, technology and the curriculum, and social studies. Tom coordinates the
annual Northeast Media Literacy Conference at the University of Connecticut which will be held on April 15, 2013.
Susan Goodman, BA
(609) 432-6346
susan@standup-speakout.com
Saxophonist Susan Goodman (Sooz) has been speaking out on bias and bullying for over a decade, since her award-winning songwriting intersected with her
passion for social justice. Compelling lyrics on the spectrum of bias--from homophobia to xenophobia--combine with eclectic beats from jazz to hip-hop to
Afrobeat, and pepper her live presentations. A fierce Ally and mother of two sons—one straight, one gay—Sooz’ music opens dialogues with savvy listeners of
all ages.
Julia Goss
(860) 301-0013
joliejulia@juno.com
Julia Goss is a Senior at Vinal Technical High School and a member of GLSEN Connecticut’s SOCO Team. She is also Vice President of her school’s Diversity
Club, which goes around to schools and educates youth on bullying/harassment prevention.
Emily Goupil, B.S., Candidate for M.S.
(603) 858-3814
egoupil@my.uri.edu
Emily Goupil is a graduate student in the College Student Personnel master’s program at the University of Rhode Island. She is currently the Graduate
Assistant in the LGBTQ Center where she acts as the Safe Zone Coordinator. Emily has a passion for educating youth as she has worked at a summer camp for
8 summers and participated in an AmeriCorps program where she was a mentor and tutor to 5th grade students.
Paul Grabowski, B.A.
(860) 486-0791
Paul Grabowski is a recent graduate of the University of Connecticut. Paul hopes to take his individualized degree in Human Sexuality in Modern Society into
a career in sex education. He has presented at regional peer education conferences on various topics of sexuality and sexual health. Paul has also presented
sexuality topics at True Colors the past two years.
Kaiima (Kash) Griffith
Kash is a senior at The Taft School and a member of GLSEN Connecticut’s SOCO Team. As someone who has struggled with gender identity, she is dedicated
to constructing ways to ensure that LGBTQ youth feel like they have an outlet for self-expression.
Jacob Griffith Gardner
(203) 421-3293
earthsave850@sbcglobal.net
After coming out four years ago, the day of the True Colors Conference I quickly became an activist. I have spoken on behalf of the Stonewall Speakers, the
Anti-Defamation League, the Connecticut Commission on Children, and GLSEN's Sports Project. I have led workshops at four different conferences including
True Colors and have been a representative at anti-bullying forums/summits in both Hartford and Washington D.C..
Barbara Gurr, MA, MA, MS, PhD
(860) 828-1659
barbara.gurr@uconn.edu
Barb Gurr teaches for the Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program at UConn. She is a longtime ally both on and off campus as well as a former
middle school and high school teacher. She is waiting with bated breath for the CW's new Wonder Woman series and is quite possibly the biggest fan of
Xena, Warrior Princess you will ever meet.
Joan Gurski
J.gurski@channel3kidscamp.org
Joan Gurski is a the Director of Development and Public Affairs at the Channel 3 Kids Camp. She has supported True Colors since 2001 when she was named
to the Safe Harbors Task force, a partnership between DCF and True Colors to identify and meet the needs of LGBT youth in the child welfare system. Joan
has provided senior communications support to nonprofits and state agencies ranging from Easter Seals and The American Red Cross to the Department of
Children and Families and Ombudsman for Developmental Services. She volunteered with the 2010 campaigns of State Senator Beth Bye and Comptroller
Kevin Lembo. Joan’s current clients include the American Academy of Pediatrics CT Chapter, CT Education Association and Hartford Area Habitat for
Humanity
Christopher Hall
(215) 545-4331
christopherdash55@yahoo.com
Chris Hall (Dash) is a Youth Trainer with the Get HYPE! program of The Bryson Institute of The Attic Youth Center. As part of Get HYPE!, Dash conducts
workshops throughout child welfare and foster care agencies across Philadelphia that build safety and support networks for LGBTQ youth. In his spare time,
Dash is a fashionista, a mentor, and a business student.
Liz Halla-Matting, BA
(860) 225-4681 x209
ehalla@ywcanewbritain.org
Liz Halla-Mattingly is a state certified sexual assault crisis counselor and is the adult advocate for the Sexual Assault Crisis Service of the YWCA New Britain.
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Chastity Halsted
Chastity is a sophomore and this is first year as a GSA member.
Kathleen Harrison, BA
(860) 756-6986
kathleen.harrison12@gmail.com
Kathleen Harrison is a recent graduate of Emmanuel College in Boston. She is intensely interested in LGBT issues and mental health, as well as in raising
awareness of issues surrounding sexual fluidity. Kathleen will be attending Simmons College to study clinical social work in the fall. She has attended the True
Colors conference for the past five years and is very excited to present this year!
Alicia Hartley, MA
(401) 232-6140
ahartley1@bryant.edu
Alicia Hartley is a recent graduate from the Higher Education and Student Affairs Master’s Program at the University of Connecticut (UConn). During her time
there, Alicia worked to improve and facilitate the Husky Ally Safe Zone Workshop for the Rainbow Center, the LGBTQQIA Resource Center at UConn. Alicia
currently works in Residence Life at Bryant University.
Vickie Henry JD
(617) 778-6957
vhenry@glad.org
Vickie Henry joined the legal team as a Senior Staff Attorney in January 2011. Vickie is a skilled litigator who came to GLAD from the law firm Foley Hoag LLP,
where she worked for 15 years, becoming a partner in 2002. She earned her BA from Wellesley College, and her JD from Boston University School of Law. She
received the Massachusetts LGBTQ Bar Association Pioneering Spirit Award in 2008. She received DRI's Davis Carr Outstanding Committee Chair Award in
2011. She has been named a Massachusetts Super Lawyer since 2004, and was one of five named by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly as “Up and Coming
Lawyers” in 2002.
Ignacio Heredia
(860) 315-2290
ignacio.heredia@ppsne.org
I have been doing education for Planned Parenthood for five years. Today I am a Youth Development Coordinator and Educator and cover Eastern CT. I have
much experience working with organizations and schools in reproductive education. I am Co-Leader of Planned Parenthood's Diversity Guide Team and have
involved for 2 over two years.
Becca Herman, M.Ed
(860) 486-3338
becca.herman@uconn.edu
Becca is the Learning Partner for the UConn LGBTQ Awareness Alternative Spring Break. She will be presenting along with 13 undergraduate trip participants.
The students' names are Faithlynn Morris (Trip Director), Ricky Holtz, Rachel Litvin, Wei Xu, Laura Muro, Allan Dotson, Mallory Tober, Parker Wilcox, Jie Fu,
Alex Maloney, Elizabeth Harmon, Emily Stassen, and Elise Guidry.
Kamora Herrington
(860) 232-0050 x313
kamora@ourtruecolors.org
Kamora Le'Ella Herrington is the Mentoring Program Coordinator for True Colors, Inc., a support and advocacy organization for sexual minority youth based in
Hartford, Connecticut. Herrington has over 20 years of experience in the human services field and has become a vocal advocate for LGBT youth. In 2009,
Herrington appeared on the Tyra Show titled "Hell to Pay: Gay Teen Exorcism" after one of the youth in her program was videotaped being exorcised. In
2010, Herrington was featured on the CNN special report titled "Gay Teens Talk Their Truth." She is a 2010 Faith Works Fellow with the Conference of
Churches based in Hartford and is committed to bringing understanding to the intersectionalities of identity. In 2010 and 2011, Herrington participated as an
activist leader at the National Black Justice Coalition's (NBJC) "OUT on the Hill Black LGBT Leadership Summit" in Washington, D.C. to organize with other
thought leaders, faith leaders, philanthropists and activists who are organizing to empower their communities while educating Congressional leaders, the
Obama Administration and federal agencies about Black LGBT public policy concerns.
Tarpley Hitt
David Heath Holt, MHR
(
David Heath Holt has extensive experience in mental health and addiction field. Heath worked for North Care as a clinician serving the homeless community
and co-founded a local non-profit organization serving LGBT youth in Oklahoma City. Currently, Heath works for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health
and Substance Abuse Services where he serves as the Coordinator for Community Advocacy and Wellness. Heath received an undergraduate degree from the
University of Central Oklahoma in Psychology, a graduate degree in Human Relations, and a Women’s and Gender Studies graduate certificate from the
University of Oklahoma. Heath is a published author, a Center for Social Justice Research Fellow, and serves on the Board of Directors as Secretary for OKC
Pride.
Jourden Hovendick
Evan Hubbard MSW, LCSW
(617) 224-1303 x
evan@afcmentoring.net
Evan works at Adoption & Foster Care Mentoring as Program Coordinator. He received a Masters of Social Work from Wheelock College in 2010, where he
specialized in working with LGBTQ youth involved in the foster and adoption care system.
Stana Hunter, BA; JD
(203) 303-6535
stana-stana@sbcglobal.net
Stana Hunter, BA, JD, is a femulator, who began crossdressing at age 12. In her teens, she took baby steps out of the closet on Halloween. Over the years,
she exited the closet completely by honing the skills necessary to allow her to pass as a woman in society (without hormones or surgery). Today, besides
living as a woman part-time, Ms. Hunter speaks at colleges and universities evangelizing the normality of crossdressing.
Jake Ireland
(828) 545-0557
jacobianireland@gmail.com
Jake is a sophomore studying theatre and creative writing at Bard College at Simon's Rock. He grew up in Asheville North Carolina. This is his first True Colors
conference and he is really excited to be here. His interests include social justice, musical theatre, writing, reading, music, and dancing.
Trina Jackson
blackfeminista@yahoo.com
Trina Jackson is the National Coordinator of the Pride Youth Theater Alliance (PYTA), a network of US and Canadian arts organizations working to support
LGBTQQ youth and their allies through theater, and the coordinator of the Network for Immigrants and African Americans in Solidarity (NIAAS), which works
to achieve racial, social and economic justice for communities of color. She has facilitated numerous trainings and workshops on racial justice, antioppression organizing, anti-violence, gender justice, environmental justice and reproductive rights.
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Rebekah Jackson, Psy.D.
(203) 387-9400 x311
rjackson@integratedwellnessgroup.org
Rebekah A. Jackson, Psy.D. is a clinical psychologist working in private practice in New Haven. She has been active in the area of sexuality and gender diversity
for the last 15 years, and provides training in this area as a consultant. She has served on the APAGS Committee on LGBT Concerns and as co-chair on the CT
Psychological Association's Task Force on Sexuality and Gender Diversity. She has won a number of awards for her leadership and work in the area of
sexuality and gender diversity.
Kian F Jacobs ,MSW, LCSW
(860) 871-2200
k_j_msw@yahoo.com
Kian has been in private practice in Ellington CT for the past five years. Sexual identity has been a predominant theme among the youth to young adult
clients. Open discussion among educators, providers, and clinicians is important to continue a dialogue with a goal of eventually creating an inclusive
community.
Viktor Jakab, B.A.
(203) 885-9138
vikjak86@gmail.com
I'm a graduate student in mental health counseling, and I enjoy M&Ms with almonds. By day, I intern at a crisis center, and by night I play board games like a
boss. I’ve run a workshop on coming out, and I started a group for men who are closeted or questioning. The risk, pain, and joy of being a gay man have
helped make me who I am today.
Maia James
Karishma Jani
(757) 637-5227
kjani11@simons-rock.edu
My name is Karishma Jani and I am a queer Sikh, Indian. I am a sophomore at Bard College at Simon's Rock and I am majoring in Pre-Medical Studies and
Psychology. I love writing, dancing, and all forms of art and expression.
Jil Jensen
Jill Jensen recently retired from the position of chief analyst with Legislative Program Review and Investigations. A member of the committee’s nonpartisan
professional staff for more than thirty-five years, To help the committee pilot the results-based accountability approach for program review work, she
conducted her last three projects using the principles of this data-driven performance evaluation method. Ms. Jensen graduated from the University of
Connecticut and, and received a master’s degree from Rutgers University.
Giftson Joseph
(860) 617-661-1600, x 301
Giftson Joseph is an actor/singer, and has been working with True Colors since 2010. He has also worked with River Side Theater Works. His favorite hobbies
are writing music, singing, acting, recording at the studio, and being silly. When not working in the arts, Giftson works as an activist and public speaker, and is
the Person of Color Facilitator for BAGLY (Boston Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Transgender Youth). He is also part of the Massachusetts Commission for LGBTQ
Youth. Giftson has facilitated workshops for the GSA Regional Camp and The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's Creating Change Conference. He aspires
to be an actor on stage and screen, and find a way to balance both activism and performing arts in his career
Julianne, Athon, BA
(619) 750-9399
julianneathon@gmail.com
My name is Julianne Athon, I'm originally from sunny California. I love to read, sing, dance, write, and hear my students laugh. I am the advisor for the GSA
at Metropolitan Business Academy, and I love my GSA! They are the best EVER!
Elizabeth Kane
Elizabeth Kane is a sophomore at Gorham High School in Maine. She loves manga, art, writing, and Florence + The Machine. One might find her buried in her
sketchbook with pencils strewn about, observing everything around her and drawing it as her own. She is excited about the conference and hoping you’ll
enjoy her presentation.
Joy Karim, MA; Certified Facilitator of The Work®
(860) 796-9461
joy@theworkwithjoy.com
Joy is a Certified Facilitator of The Work of Byron Katie®. Her desire is to help others find freedom from suffering. Deeply passionate about doing The Work®,
since 2009 she has shared it with others through workshops, classes and individual sessions. Also, with a Masters degree in Community Economic
Development from the University of New Hampshire (1994), she is interested in self-empowerment within underserved communities and individuals. For
more information about The Work, visit www.TheWorkwithJoy.com.
Lex Kennedy
(424) 250-0559
meandmybois@gmail.com
Lex Kennedy was born in Buffalo, New York and raised in the DMV. Lex identifies as a queer, masculine of center, person of color. After a forced coming out,
Lex left Spelman College and began pursing independent filmmaking. Lex used filmmaking to explore identity, focusing on the intersection of race, sexuality,
class and gender. It was through this that Lex began to identify as a masculine of center person. Lex is the co-producer of Me&MyBois.
Kin4Life
www.kin4life.com/
A new day is upon us, and hip hop’s answer to the question “what happened to the female rap game” is here. Blessed with the lyrical prowess to compete
with the hottest emcees in the business, and being touted as the female version of The Neptunes, the female duo KIN4LIFE is a force. Together as a group for
ten years and friends for over fifteen, Nor and IQ have solidified their family ties and KIN4LIFE has never had a truer meaning. Born and raised in Mt. Vernon,
NY, a town known for its contribution to hip hop in the late 80s and early 90s, KIN4LIFE is determined to bring hip hop glory back to their hometown and
respect back to their genre. As young entrepreneurs, they founded their label, Noriq Records in 2002. Under this imprint, they have released the album
KIN4LIFE Volume I” and the EPs “Rock Star” and “I Love KIN4LIFE”. The video for the hit single “Make Up Girl” held a spot on the Click List Countdown on
MTV’s Logo for 11 consecutive weeks, and was nominated for The Click List's Top 10 Videos of 2009 (http://tinyurl.com/atrt4f). In 2012, KIN4LIFE released
“It’s Over Now”, the first single and video (http://tinyurl.com/8vhhapt ) from their new album “Money Brings Trouble” scheduled for release in 2013. In
2010, KIN4LIFE wrote and produced the single “Lone Ranger” in support of LGBTQ youth, and in response to the recent wave of bullying and attacks that have
made national headlines. The track was released as a free download on Christmas Day and had 2000 downloads in the first 48 hours. KIN4LIFE has also been
featured on the PBS Emmy winning series "In The Life: Defying Stereotypes" which they now screen at universities across the country as part of a diversity
program for students and faculty.
Jen King
jen.king79@gmail.com
Jennifer King is a True Colors Group mentor and has much experience facilitating groups in residential programs and adventure/challenge courses with youth
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Fleurette King
(860) 486-5821
fleurette.king@uconn.edu
Fleurette King serves as the Director of UConn’s Rainbow Center, the LGBTQ Cultural Center. King oversees the center's operation and staff to fulfill its’
mission and vision. King obtained a B.A. in Sociology with a minor in Ethnic Studies from Bowling Green State University and a M.A. in Sociology from DePaul
University. King’s participation in regional and national networks reflects a deep passion and commitment to social justice. King enjoys racquetball, reading,
and the Wii.
Maddy Kobar
(860) 389-8919
kobarm@my.easternct.edu
Maddy is a proud member of the GSA on her campus. She is a great friend and she is training to be a fierce in drag.
Sherry Kollmann, MA; M. Ed; PhD candidate
Sherry Kollmann, MA, M.Ed., is a doctoral student in Educational Psychology at the University of Oklahoma. She currently serves as a faculty member for an
MBA program at a Midwestern University. Her research specialties include: epistemology, human motivation, cognition, identity development, instructional
design, and faculty work.
Irwin Krieger, MSW; LCSW
Irwin Krieger, LCSW is a clinical social worker in private practice in New Haven, CT. He has over 25 years of experience working as a therapist for the GLBT
community. Since 2004 he has been working extensively with transgender adults and teens and their families. Irwin Krieger is the author of Helping Your
Transgender Teen: a Guide for Parents. See www.HelpingYourTransgenderTeen.com for information about the book and an extensive listing of resources for
parents.
Kylie Kuhn
Kylie pretends to be quiet and shy but really she is boisterous and adventurous. She is a kick butt violinist and has been playing since she was five! She is a
9th grader at Four Rivers and is excited to be at True Colors.
Lauren Lamourine
(856) 649-9007
lamourinel@my.easternct.edu
Lauren has been an active member of her campus GSA for years. She is outspoken and a huge lover of musicals. The best way to make Lauren happy is with a
cup of coffee.
Jo Lampert
Jo Lampert is a multi-disciplinary performer, producer, and DJ based out of Brooklyn, NYC. She has been seen in such New York productions as The Last
Goodbye (Mercutio, Dance Captain / Joe’s Pub, The Wild Project); Dance, Dance Revolution (Dir. Alex Timbers / Ohio Theatre); The Daughters(Aphrodite /
Joe’s Pub); and NYC workshopsat MTC and the Public Theater. Regionally, she's most recently performed at A.R.T. and Yale Rep. Currently, Jo is a staple of the
live show in the electro-pop, R&B-twinged BK-band AVAN LAVA, and as a DJ, she has been spotted spinning her jams as dj over easy at Lincoln Center, Ars
Nova, The Public Theater, Glasslands, and the like
James Lecesne
James@jameslecesne.com
JAMES LECESNE has been telling stories for over 25 years. His short film, TREVOR, won the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short and went on to inspire
the founding of The Trevor Project, the only nationwide 24-hour suicide prevention helpline for GLBT and, Questioning youth. An actor as well as a writer,
Mr. Lecesne’s solo show WORD OF MOUTH was presented Off Broadway by Mike Nichols and Elaine May and directed by Eve Ensler; he was awarded the NY
Drama Desk Award and the Outer Critics Circle Award for best solo performance as well as the LA Theater Weekly Award. He also wrote the book for the solo
musical ONE MAN BAND, with music and lyrics by Larry Hochman and Marc Eliot. His acting credits include the original NYC production of CLOUD 9 by Caryl
Churchill. EXTRAORDINARY MEASURES, written and directed by Eve Ensler, and the 30th anniversary production of BOYS IN THE BAND by Mart Crowley. He
also starred in the Pulitzer Prize winning play, I AM MY OWN WIFE at Hartford Stage Company.
Scott Leibowitz, MD
(617) 355-6680
scott.leibowitz@childrens.harvard.edu
Scott Leibowitz, MD is a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Boston Children's Hospital and an Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Since
graduating from child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship there in 2010, he has developed a consultative psychosocial assessment and treatment clinic for
gender nonconforming and/or dysphoric children and adolescents. Dr. Leibowitz also serves as the staff psychiatrist for the Division of Adolescent and Young
Adult medicine where he is active in teaching and curriculum development on LGBT issues in a primary care setting. He has published on topics that include
the development of his clinic, assessment/treatment issues for gender nonconforming youth, and innovative medical education practices pertaining to LGBT
youth. He serves as the early career psychiatrist member on the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry's (AACAP) Sexual Orientation and
Gender Identity Issues Committee (SOGIIC), where he is also liaison to the Family committee. He also serves on the faculty for the Fenway Institute's National
LGBT Heath Education Center and was recently appointed to the American Academy of Medical College's LGBTI Patient Care Advisory Committee.
Lizzy Lemieux
Lizzy Lemieux is an eighth grader from Gorham Middle School who is used to being the diversity because of her religion. She spends her time writing short
stories and novels and playing clarinet. She's interested in teaching, though she hopes to one day be published. Hopefully that's not to far in the future! She
thanks you and hopes you enjoy the presentation!
Madeleine Leveille Ph.D.
Madeleine is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist who has a private practice in Waterford, CT that specializes in psychological
and psychoeducational evaluations and consultation. She is a regular presenter at True Colors and previously was faculty adviser to Amity High School's GSA.
Madeleine has been active in state and regional counseling associations and served on the editorial boards of state and national counseling and psychology
journals.
Sarah Levine
(860) 524-7028
Sarah.levine@uconn.edu
Sarah Levine is a Junior Psych student at UConn, and works with the Speaker's Bureau to educate students and staff about asexuality, sometimes even
traveling to other campuses. She loves cars and working on computers.
Colin Lewis
colin.lewis@usma.edu
Colin Lewis is a cadet at the United States Military Academy. He served on active duty in the Army from 2009-2011 and attended the United States Military
Academy Preparatory School in the class of 2012. He served for two years under DADT and is now a part of USMA's newly formed GSA, Spectrum.
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Julia Lillis
(860) 617-661-1600, x 301
Julia Lillis is an actor/singer, and has been working with True Colors since 2009. She is the Events Coordinator for BAGLY and is a body positive queer activist.
Julia has presented several times at The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's Creating Change Conference on the theater for social change methodologies of
True Colors. She aspires to be a theater director.
Sarah Lindahl, MA
(860) 486-0791
sarah.lindahl@uconn.edu
Sarah Lindahl is a Graduate Assistant in the Health Education Office and is completing her Master’s Degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs at the
University of Connecticut in 2014. She obtained her MA in Criminal Justice from Seattle University in 2010 and has previous experience in social services and
education. Sarah plans to work in Higher Education and teach community college Criminal Justice classes.
Wright Lisa ,Ed. D.
(212) 678-3849
lrw22@columbia.edu
Dr. Lisa Wright is on the faculty and the director of The Hollingworth Center at Teachers College, Columbia University. This year marks her 25th year at
Teachers College. In her work with rising teacher, curriculum design, graduate students and families, Dr. Wright's commitment to social justice is evident. An
advocate for developing the potentials of all children, Dr. Wright endeavors to create respectful and inclusive communities which reflect multifaceted gender
identities.
Erin Livensparger
(203) 752-2852
Erin.Livensparger@ppsne.org
Erin Livensparger is the Regional Manager, Education and Training for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England Inc. (PPSNE) where she supervises
community education staff and provides comprehensive sexuality education workshops for teens; parents; people with developmental disabilities; and other
members of the community. Additionally Erin manages PPSNE’s S.T.A.R.S. program. Erin is a certified HIV counselor and tester. She has done work in many
different community settings from schools to residential programs; correctional facilities to shelters.
Diana Lombardi, MSW
Diana is a Director of the Connecticut Trans-Advocacy Coalition (CTAC). In addition, Diana is the past Executive Director of the Connecticut Outreach Society a
support group for trans-persons. She worked with ctEQUALITY to pass the gender inclusive Anti-Discrimination law in Connecticut in 2011 and was a Project
Coordinator on a research project that studied the transgender population in the Greater Hartford area for AIDS/HIV. She is a member of NASW and WPATH
Nyasia Mercer Long
(203) 435-1808
wolf2girl@gmail.com
Nyasia Mercer Long is a Freshmen at Common Ground High School and a member of GLSEN Connecticut€™s SOCO Team. She is an active volunteer for the
community and has been involved in many after-school programs, including TAG and the Yale Pathways program.
Alexandra Luciani
(203) 581-3493
aluciani@conncoll.edu
Alexandra Luciani is a first year student at Connecticut College. Recently elected as co-chair of Spectrum, "this group works toward ending homophobia and
transphobia through education and advocacy. It is dedicated to raising awareness about issues of sexual orientation and gender identity, changing
discriminatory policies and attitudes and providing support for its members." http://www.conncoll.edu/offices/lgbtq/student-groups.htm Alexandra is a
perennial advocate and believes that growing strides towards inclusiveness and equality begin with very young children.
Tara Lutz, B.A.
(860) 486-0791
tara.lutz@uconn.edu
Tara Lutz is a Graduate Assistant in the Health Education Office and is completing her Master’s Degree in Public Health at the University of Connecticut in
2013. She obtained her B.A. in biology from the College of the Holy Cross. Tara plans to use her science background to combine her interests in sexual health,
comprehensive sexuality education, and youth with disabilities.
Tiago Machado, MA
(860) 486-0863
tiago.machado@uconn.edu
Tiago Machado is a recent graduate from the Higher Education and Student Affairs Master’s Program at the University of Connecticut (UConn). During his
time there, Tiago worked to develop a peer mentoring program for the Rainbow Center, the LGBTQQIA Resource Center at UConn. Tiago has previously
volunteered at the True Colors Conference with a group of UConn students participating on an alternative spring break trip. Tiago continues to work at the
University of Connecticut.
Carole Mackenzie, MSW; LCSW
Carole MacKenzie, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker and AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists) certified sex
therapist, is in private practice in Hartford. She teaches Human Sexuality at the University of Hartford. A graduate of UCBerkeley with a Smith College School
for Social Work MSW, Carole works with youth and adult transgender-identified clients, speaking frequently on transgender issues.
Mary Malia, BS
(207) 450-1611
mary@gaygirldatingcoach.com
As the founder and organizer of lesbian focused community groups in multiple states, with members numbering in the thousands, she brings her unique
philosophies to women dating women wherever she can. Her unique focus is as a ”Step by Step You Can Live an Extraordinary Life” Gay Girl Dating Coach
because happiness is more than dating! She is committed to serving the gay girl community anywhere and everywhere it is in order to support women in
being their most brilliant selves and creating extraordinary lives. Her focus on authenticity, humor and daring to dream show up in her writing and speaking
and in her own life as well. Not only does she teach women how to date 21st century style but she also works with business owners and executives across
many industries including marketing, health services, nonprofits, and technology. Her business, Gay Girl Dating, LLC, was founded on the belief that lesbian,
gay, queer, bi and transgendered women can live extraordinary lives when they understand the principles and practices that make life great and put these
practices into action in their own lives.
Matthew Malouf, Ph.D., M.Ed.
Matthew Malouf received his PhD in Counseling Psychology from Lehigh University where he served on Lehigh's LGBTQA Steering Committee and the College
of Education's Diversity Committee, and was a MLK Service Award Recipient. Currently he is a clinician and researcher at the Connecticut Children's Medical
Center and is the mental health liaison for CCMC's multidisciplinary gender identity and sex development clinics. He also serves on SAMHSA's National
Workgroup for LGBTQI2-S Children and Youth.
Joe Mannetti, MS
(860) 941-7822
jman12_2000@yahoo.com
Joe Mannetti has a Master of Science degree in Marriage Family. He has worked as an actor, public speaker, fundraiser, certified HIV testing counselor, and
mental health clinician. He was the recipient of the prestigious Justice-Love award from The Metropolitan Community Church in the Valley for “outstanding
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service to the LGBT community..." Joe is also a recognized public figure in the LGBT "Bear" and "Leather" communities. His many titles include Mr.
International Daddy Bear 2009.
Alessandra Martinelli-Alvarez AA
alessandra.martinelli@rocketmail.com
My name is Alessandra Martinelli-Alvarez and I am 19 years old. I went to a K-12 school in Avalon, California. I have lived my entire life (until recently) on a
little island called Santa Catalina off the coast of Los Angeles county. I left for college after the eleventh grade and I am currently a junior at Bard College at
Simon’s Rock studying chemical engineering and cultural anthropology (what a mix, right?).
Melanie Martin-Peele MA
(860) 977-8197
peelemr@gmail.com
Melanie Martin-Peele is a feminist lesbian sociologist, health researcher, and therapist. She has a Master’s in Sociology and Women’s Studies, and has
worked at UConn Health Center for 15 years. Currently she is a Research Associate in Family Medicine and Director of Evaluation for the Ethel Donaghue
Center for Translating Research into Practice and Policy. Her professional interests include community-based treatment and research in chronic diseases;
LGBTQ, gender, and sexuality issues; and mental health/wellness.
Patrick McGuire
860-232-0050
gsa@ourtruecolors.org
Patrick McGuire is the Gay Straight Alliance Coordinator at True Colors. He works to offer support and programming to student-run organizations across
Connecticut as they work to make their schools safe and inclusive for all students.
Anne McIntyre-Lahner
ANNE.MCINTYRE-LAHNER@ct.gov
Anne has worked for the State of Connecticut in its juvenile and criminal justice systems for the past nineteen years. She is a 2009 graduate of the
Georgetown University Center for Juvenile Justice Reform Certificate Program, and is a member of the Center's Fellows Network. Her work for the
Department has included managing the department's response to Connecticut's Raise the Age legislation. She currently leads implementation of Results
Based Accountability across the department.
Bryce McKinzie
dee1187@hotmail.com
Bryce has been working in the community through GSA's programs and now the imperial Court. he has received the 'rising star' award from the Dorothy
Awards. he may be only 25 years old, but he has alot more to do in the LGBT community
Tanisha McMillan BS
(860) 726-3596
Author, activist, mentor for True Colors and a board member of the LGBT Coalition of Western Ma.
Qutet@yahoo.com
Nancy Meyer-Lustman, Ph.D.
nancymeyerlustman@gmail.com
Nancy Meyer-Lustman, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist in private practice for over 25 years in New Haven, CT. She is on the clinical faculty in the Yale
Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine where she supervises psychologists in training. She works with children and their families, adolescents, adults
and couples. She has experience with a broad range of issues including but not limited to depression and anxiety, self esteem, relationships, sexuality and
gender. Dr. Meyer-Lustman has worked with transgender children and their parents, as well as transgender adults. In addition, she has made presentations
about transgender youth at conferences for physicians, pediatricians, educators, and mental health workers.
Rachel Michael, BS
(631) 972-5678
Rachel is one of the founding members of Riot Prrl, a knitters' league for positive mischief & can often be found covering Western Mass in yarn, playing dek
hockey or baking cupcakes. Rachel is currently pursuing a degree in Deaf Studies.
Michael Michaelson
(207) 650-6564
mmichaelson@newsbym.com
As an intern with Mainers United for Marriage, the campaign to win marriage for gay and lesbian couples in Maine, I spent 40 hrs/week coaching, training
and leading teams of volunteers in both phone banks and in person volunteer recruitment, as well as coordinating actions. I served as a volunteer on the
2009 marriage campaign and with the Maine Democratic Party. I’m active in my school’s GSTA.
Julianna Migliaro
My name is Julianna Migliaro, I'm 15 years old, and I go to Metropolitan Business Academy in New Haven. I pride myself on being an artist, a member of the
LGBT community, a best friend, and I hope to make a difference one day.
Liz Miller
(860) 633-4651
lizmiller@southchurch2.org
Liz Miller is the Minister of Discipleship Education at the Congregational Church of South Glastonbury. South Church has been a leader in the movement of
open and affirming congregations for LGBT people for 21 years. At South Church, Liz oversees the educational and developmental opportunities for all ages,
specializing in middle school and high school education. Liz preaches, provides pastoral care, creates and manages weekly programs for over 150 families.
Anna Morrow
860-232-0050
gsa@ourtruecolors.org
Anna Morrow is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Social Work from UConn. She interns at True Colors, where she is working on a project to set up
support for LGBTQ middle school students in the Hartford area.
Carynna Mott
(203) 848-8968
craycray97@gmail.com
Hi, I am Carynna Mott and I'm a blonde, 15 year-old sophomore at Metropolitan Business Academy. My friend and I current run the GSA here. My favorite
class is business psychology. I am a vegetarian. I love hula hooping, eating cotton candy, and anything to do with coconut.
Tiffany Moyer-Washington, BA
I "came out" to my family 6 months before my marriage. I "came out" at my job the weekend before my wedding. Neither experience was positive. As I
continued in my teaching career, I found it more and more important to be "out" at work with staff and students to make a change in the lives of teenagers.
I've been teaching for 9 years in Hartford and "come-out" on the first day of school every year.
Laura Muro
(860) 713-1571
laura.muro@uconn.edu
I am currently a sophomore at the University of Connecticut. I am double majoring in Human Development and Family studies and Women, Gender, and
Sexuality Studies. I am from Bolton, CT and have been struggling with an Eating Disorder/Disordered Eating for 7 years.
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Wes Nemenz, BA
1 (212) 509-0072 x328
wes.nemenz@thetrevorproject.org
Wes Nemenz is the Education Manager East for the Trevor Project. Wes has presented hundreds of trainings on creating safer spaces for LGBTQ individuals in
schools, coordinated youth programs at an LGBTQ community center and developed social media strategies for non-profit organizations. Prior to Trevor,
Wes worked as an intern with Equality North Carolina on their grassroots campaign to successfully pass the School Violence Prevention Act. Wes graduated
from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a BA in Communication Studies and Public Relations. With a passion for social media, strategic
communication, writing, and performance, Wes brings a varied background of experiences to the table and is proud to be a voice for social change.
Louis Nemeth
(203) 752-2896
louis.nemeth@ppsne.org
Louis Nemeth coordinates online services for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. He has previously worked as a legislative aide, campaign
consultant and lobbyist, and has been active in social justice campaigns related to apartheid, political prisoners, and LGBT equality. Nemeth was a leader of a
“marriage moratorium” in the Episcopal Church that drew headlines for its innovative approach to marriage equality. He was previously an aide to consumer
advocate Ralph Nader.
J. Aleah Nesteby Nurse Practitioner
413-794-1316
J.Aleah.Nesteby@baystatehealth.org
Aleah Nesteby is a Nurse Practitioner at the High Street Heath Center in Springfield, MA. She has a specialty interest in LGBTQ health care. Aleah runs a
weekly clinic for transgender patients, and manages hormone therapy and primary care for transgender patients. She has been the recipient of an American
Academy of Nurse Practitioners project grant to increase access to care for transgender patients, and also received a grant from Tufts Medical School to
develop a transgender curriculum for medical students.
Maggie Neuman BA
(360) 389-0438
mneuman@educ.umass.edu
Maggie Neuman is currently pursuing her M.Ed. in Social Justice Education at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. She earned her B.A. in Special
Education from Western Washington University, and is certified in P-12 Special Education and K-8 General Education. Before moving to Massachusetts,
Maggie taught special education for three years at the elementary and middle school level in Washington State. She enjoys educating and collaborating with
others to make schools safer for all youth!
Joleen M. Nevers MAEd, CHES, CSE
(860) 486-0772
joleen.nevers@uconn.edu
Joleen Nevers is the Health Education Coordinator at the University of Connecticut. She has over 15 years experience working in the field of sexuality and is a
certified sexuality educator through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists. She has presented on sexuality and sexual
health topics to both regional and national conferences. Joleen created and implemented UConn's “Rubberwear”, which is a nationally recognized sexual
health program.
Lesléa Newman, B.S.
(413) 552-3865
leslea@lesleakids.com
Lesléa Newman is an author and LGBT activist whose books include HEATHER HAS TWO MOMMIES, THE BOY WHO CRIED FABULOUS, and OCTOBER
MOURNING: A SONG FOR MATTHEW SHEPARD. A past poet laureate of Northampton, MA, she teaches at Spalding University's brief-residency MFA in
Writing program.
Alec Oarei
(413) 386-5852
qspenguin7@rocketmail.com
Alec is 22 years young, and is excited about presenting at True Colors Conference for the 3rd year. He enjoys song writing, gender blending, and activism. Alec
would like to send a shout-out to all the people who helped him get to where he is today
Robyn Ochs
robyn@robynochs.com
An advocate for the rights of people of ALL orientations and genders to live safely, openly and with full legal and social equality, Robyn’s work focuses on
increasing awareness and understanding of complex identities and mobilizing people to be powerful allies to one another within and across identities and
social movements. Robyn speaks at colleges, conferences and youth groups in the US and beyond. She is the editor of the 42-country anthology, Getting Bi:
Voices of Bisexuals Around the World and of Bi Women. Kate Bornstein has called Robyn "the absolute empress of sexual fluidity."
Rev. Alice O'Donovan, B.S., M.A.R.S., M.Div.
(860) 872-6537
revalice@aol.com
Alice is an experienced pastor. She is ordained in the United Church of Christ, married, a mother, and has presented at True Colors many times. She enjoys
kayaking and photography.
Melina O'Grady
melogrady@gmail.com
Melina O’Grady, EdM, is an Education Consultant and Writer in the Boston area. She has worked with youth and youth programs since 1992, focusing on arts
education, juvenile justice, girls programming and support for homeless youth. She founded and ran Bay Area Teen Voices from 1996-2001 in San Francisco,
and coordinated the SAYD youth worker credential in Boston from 2006-08. Currently, she is consulting as a quality coach, trainer, and management
consultant, and just completed writing the Teacher’s Guide for the documentary film TRUST.
Christine O'Leary
christine@christineoleary.com
Christine O’Leary has always been funny – she began being funny for a living 10 years ago. Since then she has been nominated one of the Funniest Lesbians in
America; has worked with the Indigo Girls, Margaret Cho and Jennifer Hudson; headlined and hosted Pride Comedy events for Key West Pride and Business
Guild as well as NYC Pride; participated in the first-ever Harvey Milk Day in LA playing the role of Anne Kronenberg in 'dear harvey'. Most recently, Christine
has taped first pilot with transgender funny man Ian Harvie and Executive Producer Margaret Cho. http://www.christineoleary.com
Ean Oliver
Ean Oliver is currently an instructor in the Navy.
blink396501@yahoo.com
Bekkah Olson
(651) 491-9598
rolson@gm.slc.edu
Bekkah Olson is a queer poet and performer from St. Paul, MN. She's opened for poets including Beau Sia, Rachel McKibbens, and Jeffrey McDaniel and
represented the Twin Cities at 2010 Brave New Voices Annual Youth Poetry Slam in Los Angeles, CA. She is the spoken word organizer for the annual poetry
at Sarah Lawrence College and co-chairs the SLC Spoken Word Collective. She is published on Cloud City Press and promoted by Occupy Writers.
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Nora Padykula, MSW, PhD
npadykula@westfield.ma.edu
Nora Padykula, MSW, PhD is an assistant professor in the Baccalaureate Social Work Program at Westfield State University. Nora received her MSW from
Springfield College, and her PhD from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a clinician, Nora has focused her practice experiences in substance abuse
treatment and trauma-focused psychotherapy.
Laurie Palagyi LMFT
(617) 224-1304
laurie@afcmentoring.net
Laurie joined AFC mentoring in February of 2012. A native of Georgia, Laurie specializes in experiential education including adventure challenge, alternative
teaching methods and clinical work concentrating in youth, couples and family through a systemic perspective.
Robert Paolino
RPaolino@waterfordcs.org
Robert Paolino taught high school and college courses and is a certified trainer in the areas of trauma and CARE a residential program. He is also a mental
health therapist and has been the director of the WCS Safe Homes for the past 12 yrs
Theresa Paquette
tpaquette11@simons-rock.edu
My name is Theresa Paquette and I'm a sophomore at Bard College at Simon's Rock. I want to moderate into German and Media Studies. I enjoy music (I play
the drum, sing, and play guitar), art, reading, and going on trips with my friends.
Andrea Paquin
booking@andreapaquin.com
Andrea knew at a very young age that music touched her soul. After years of begging, she finally got a guitar. She taught herself “Helpless” by Crosby Stills
Nash and Young, and played it over and over again until she perfected it…..this is where her musical journey began. She taught herself how to play the guitar,
bass, harmonica, and how to sing. She played bass and sang harmonies in a band “The Everyday Visuals”, while at the same time writing and performing her
original music. She left the band after 10 years, but continued writing and performing her music. She has to date recorded 3 albums, with the 4th album “Can
You Hear Me?” currently being recorded, and due for release in early fall 2012. Her music embodies the term “Folk Rock”. Her songs tell vivid stories using
clever, memorable melodies and harmonies along with captivating lyrics. And her sound has been compared to that of The Indigo Girls, Melissa Etheridge, and
Joni Mitchell. Andrea feels fortunate to have played all over the Northeast sharing many stages with talented musicians including Melissa Ferrick, Chris Pureka,
Zoe Lewis, Edie Carey, Anne Heaton, Howie Day and Blessed Union of Souls. She has performed at colleges and festivals throughout the country. In addition to
her passion for music, Andrea also has a passion for serving others. Andrea volunteers much of her time performing at benefit concerts that help raise
awareness about people with developmental disabilities. www.facebook.com/andreapaquin.music; www.youtube.com/andreapaquinmusic
Michael Pastore
mpastore1990@gmail.com
I am 22 years old, and have been a part of the Attic Youth Center's Youth Leadership Committee, YPC, for the past four years. I developed this workshop as
part of a college course and have adapted it for work with LGBTQ youth. I have a passion for music and community building and look forward to bringing this
work to True Colors once again!
Jami Patterson, NYU Certified Life Coach
After living on three continents and enjoying many cultures with her husband and children, Jami completed the internationally recognized coaching program
at New York University. Jami created GROW Coaching to inspire and guide open-minded people to live life with abundant thinking and gratitude. She
coaches individuals and couples to achieve the “life of their dreams” by setting personal growth goals and developing effective life strategies to work through
everyday challenges. Jami facilitates powerful solutions and strategies with her clients to deliver exceptional personal and professional growth, leading to
empowerment and fulfillment.
Maryse Pearce, BA
(617) 778-6724
mpearce@glad.org
Maryse joined GLAD in September 2011. She received a bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis, where she majored in History and
minored in Theater. As Co-President of Wash U's Pride Alliance, Maryse spearheaded initiatives to foster LGBT community and led educational and social
awareness campaigns to ensure the safety and comfort of LGBT students. A native New Yorker, Maryse is excited to be in Boston, and thrilled to be working
for LGBT equality at GLAD.
Abigail Peña, AA
penaabigail@yahoo.com
Abi is a senior at Bard College at Simon's Rock majoring in Psychology and Gender Studies. She is currently applying for Masters of Social Work programs to
start immediately after graduating. She grew up in Stamford, CT and has lived in multiple towns in Fairfield County. She has worked with GLSEN (Gay Lesbian
and Straight Education Network) Connecticut and GLSEN National for many years before attending college.
Bill Petrosky, MM
(860) 278-4163 x26
williamp@hglhc.org
Bill Petrosky has been in the field of HIV Prevention for over 27 years. After 13 years of volunteer work, Bill joined the AIDS Project Hartford prevention staff
doing presentations, developing curricula for standard outreach programs and joining the HIV testing staff. As Director of HIV Prevention at the Hartford Gay
and Lesbian Health Collective, Bill also participates on the LIFE Campaign and is presently a member of the task force named Connecticut HIV/AIDS
Identification and Referral (CHAIR).
Shayla Phillips
Shayla has pink hair, enjoys educating people about bullying and is in the 7th grade. She is obsessed with “Blood on the Dance Floor” sand is really excited
about going to True Colors
Aaron Pitre
acpitre@hotmail.com
Aaron Pitre is an actor and playwright from Seattle, WA. He is a graduate of Suffolk University where he acted in over 20 plays including 'Rhinoceros,' and
'Othello' for which he won an award from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival for his portrayal of Iago. Pitre originated the role of
Laurence/Lionel in the Elliot Norton Award winning 'The Blowin of Baile Gall' by Ronan Noone, and he played Hamlet in the New England premiere of 'The
Secret Love Life of Ophelia,' by Steven Berkoff. Other theatrical credits include: 'Black Nativity' with the Intiman Theatre(Seattle, WA) 'A Chorus Line' with the
Winthrop Playmakers(Winthrop, MA), 'The Tempest' with Shakespeare in Delaware Park(Buffalo, NY), and 'The Relapse' with the Irish Classical Theatre
Company(Buffalo, NY).
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Jeffrey Poirier, M.A.
(202) 329-5440
jpoirier@air.org
Jeffrey M. Poirier is a Senior Researcher at the American Institutes for Research (AIR). He serves as a member of the Technical Assistance Partnership for
Child and Family Mental Health (www.tapartnership.org) and co- facilitates its LGBTQI2-S Learning Community. In addition, he is Coordinator of the Child,
Adolescent and Family Branch’s National Workgroup to Address the Needs of Children and Youth Who Are LGBTQI2-S and Their Families. He recently coedited a Brookes Publishing book, Improving Emotional and Behavioral Outcomes for LGBT Youth: A Guide for Professionals. Jeff and his AIR colleagues
provide consultation, training, and technical assistance on various issues affecting youth-serving systems and organizations.
Susan Jennifer Polese, Certified Life Coach, B.F.A.
(914) 629-6378
susan@susanjenniferpolese.com
Susan Jennifer Polese is a writer, and a life coach who is in her final year of earning her Master's of Counseling Education at Western Connecticut State
University. She is currently interning at The Women's Center in Danbury. As a journalist she has been published in the New York Times and as a playwright
she has had plays produced off-Broadway and regionally. She's facilitated workshops in meditation, female empowerment and expressive art therapy.
Story Ponvert
Ryan Popper
(301) 742-7710
kpopper11@simons-rock.edu
Sophomore at Bard College at Simon's Rock studying Fine Arts and Education; dedicated queer/trans* activist and practicing Catholic.
Brianna Powell
Steven Procopio, ACSW, LICSW
617.306.0660
Mr. Procopio is the project coordinator for 'Surviving our Struggle' a program that works with commercially sexually exploited. boys/young men/ trans
individuals in Boston. He brings extensive experience in the area of public health, HIV/AIDS, homelessness, youth services and work with adult male survivors
of sexual exploitation. Mr. Procopio has taught and presented on issues of male victimization on a local and national level, consulting with various groups on
the effects of the sexual exploitation of boys and young men. Mr. Procopio is a graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Social Work and is an
adjunct instructor at the Boston University School of Social Work.
Hannah Prum, BA
(617) 901-6687
imasupermuteant@gmail.com
Hannah prefers to be referred to as Princess Pink Bunny. Princess Pink Bunny enjoys talking about babies, BATMAN ,and Homestuck. She is a geek and a nerd
and proud of it. She is very excited to be presenting at the True Colors Conference for the first time.
Amy Raina, BFA
(207) 828-1035 x110
amy@sarsonline.org
Amy W. Raina is an educator, writer and performer based in Portland, Maine. She has been developing and implementing art and anti-violence curriculum
since 2001. Currently, Raina works as the Education Program Manager for Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine. She supervises a staff of four
who deliver school-based programming on sexual assault prevention and sexuality education to over 40 schools and 8,000 students in Southern Maine. Raina
writes stories and poems that explore gender, queer identities, and the complexities of human relationships. She is also a performer and writer for The
Femme Show, one of the nation's leading queer-owned, touring variety shows that specifically explores femme identity. Raina's monologues such as "Letters
to a Life is Good Lesbian" and "Are You High Maintenance?" are designed to elicit laughter, gratitude, and thoughtfulness. She challenges her audience to
look at the multitude of dilemmas in her queer community, including the hypocrisy of gender roles. When not working, writing or performing look for Raina
on the river in her blue kayak or in the studio on her pink yoga mat. Read Raina's blog: deliciousfemmefortunes.blogspot.com.
Shanique Reid
A 17 year old lesbian identified cis female, completing her senior year of high school at Classical Magnet. Plans to attend Savannah College of Art and Design
to receive a bachelor's degree in Fashion Public Relations Management. Co-president of her gay-straight alliance, she actively participates in activism for civil
rights.
Sue Richmond, LCSW
860.986.2791
srichmond@usj.edu
Sue is a licensed clinical social worker and has been practicing psychotherapy since 1997. She received a Bachelor degree from Keene State College and
Master’s of Social Work from the University of Connecticut, with a specialization in social group work and casework. Sue has experience as a therapist, a crisis
clinician and inpatient psychiatric social worker helping individuals and groups with a variety of stress-related disorders resulting from life transitions and
LGBT/Q issues.
Erica Del Rio
Erica Del Rio is a Senior at Capitol Preparatory Magnet School and a member of GLSEN Connecticut’s SOCO Team. She is president of her school’s GSA and has
had leadership roles in Young Women Creating Change, the Muslim Student Alliance, and Student Government.
Isaiah Roby
(860) 617-2462
robyi@my.easternct.edu
Isaiah is a pan romantic greysexual transsexual male trying to survive his last year in college while running all things non-straight on his campus. He is a
juggler and yes, he does know how to make balloon animals.
James Rockett
James Rockett, a GLSEN Connecticut Jump-Start Student Leader, is a Junior at Somers High School. He’s also an active member of his school’s GSA.
Kendra Rosenblatt, LMHC, MFT
(203) 397-3224
alidaengel@sbcglobal.net
Kendra is a therapist and Alida's daughter. She was raised in an egalitarian community with a focus on dance and movement. She will most likely be assisting
Alida in this presentation.
Nick Rossetti
Nick Rossetti is a 23-year old student at Southern Connecticut State University in pursuit of a Masters of Social Work degree. He is currently employed at
AIDS Project New Haven as a coordinator for the Caring Cuisine meal delivery program for homebound clients and their families who are infected with or
affected by HIV/AIDS. In addition, he is a student intern with the Department of Children and Families area office in Milford working in an investigation unit.
Nick's career goal is to become employed by the Department of Children and Families, and he is an avid supporter of the LGBTI community.
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Elizabeth Rowell Ph.D
(860) 974-1814
erowell@ric.edu
Liz, a professor in Elementary Education, is a dedicated ally at RIC where she has served on the Gender Neutral Restrooms and Preferred Name Change
committees and teaches a General Education Course - Multicultural Views: Same-Sex Orientation and Transsexuality. Publications include Promoting
Dialogue on the Transgender Experience in College Courses Through Films And Literature, Human Architecture (Winter 09). Through her help RIC has an
outstanding historical collection of GLT friendly picture books for young children.
Ned Ruete
esruete@gmail.com
Ned Ruete is a former member of the board of directors of the International Association of Facilitators and the editorial board of “Group Facilitation: A
Research and Applications Journal”. He has facilitated and taught group facilitation around the world. In addition, Ned is a member of the Open Affirming
Reconciling committee of my church..
Andy Russo
(860) 918-3288
andyrusso10@gmail.com
Andy Russo is one of the newest members of GLSEN Connecticut€™s Jump-Start Team. He is 16 years-old and a junior at RHAM High School. Andy has been
active in different types of youth mentoring programs and has recently become interested in helping other LGBT students become more comfortable with
themselves. He also enjoys participating in charity work and hopes to go to college after graduating high school.
Emma Ryan
S.T.A.R.S (Students Teaching about Responsible Sexuality)
(860) 899-5967
liana.brown@ppsne.org
S.T.A.R.S (Students Teaching About Responsible Sexuality) is Planned Parenthood’s peer education group in Hartford, CT. STARS educate their peers about
healthy sexuality topics including reproductive anatomy and physiology, methods of birth control, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), healthy relationships,
healthcare services, LGBTQ issues, and sexual decision making.
Jade Sailor
Jade is a junior at Metropolitan Learning Center and has been a member of our GSA for 2 years.
Laura M. I. Saunders, Psy.D. ABPP
Laura M. I. Saunders, Psy.D. ABPP is a licensed psychologist working in the Division of Child & Adolescent Services, Psychiatric Inpatient Unit at the Institute
of Living/Hartford Hospital. She is also Board Certified in Clinical Psychology. Dr. Saunders has expertise in child psychopathology, behavior management,
mood disorders and family therapy. In addition, she has been involved professionally with glbt youth for over 20 years. She appears regularly in local TV news
such as FOXCT to provide psychological input on topics relevant to children and families and has started a monthly segment on WDRC 1360 AM on The Mary
Jones Show with a focus on primary prevention to discuss issues related to children and families. She maintains a small private practice at the Rainbow
Center for Children and Families in Wethersfield, CT.
Emily Segal,MSW
Emily Segal, LCSW, is a Clinical Social Worker at the Stamford High School Health Center, where she has worked for 12 years. She is the school's GSA advisor.
She is a supervisor of School Based Health Center social workers. She attended Hunter College School of Social Work; she received her BA from Amherst
College.
The Femme Show
(857) 204-5816
maggie@thefemmeshow.com
The Femme Show is a group of queer performers hailing mostly from Boston, MA who bring deep, personal explorations of queer and subversive femininity
to the stage in a fun, eclectic variety show. This is queer art for queer people: challenging, introspective, brazen, funny, sexy, and gritty but always powerful.
They are available for workshops and performances at schools, colleges, and community events. www.thefemmeshow.com, maggie@thefemmeshow.com,
and “thefemmeshow” on twitter, facebook and youtube.
Donna Shubrooks RN
(860) 278-4163 x13
donnas@hglhc.org
Donna Shubrooks has been the STD Program Coordinator at the Hartford Gay and Lesbian Collective for 10 years. As an RN, she has been closely involved in
AIDS care and prevention for nearly 30 years, and especially enjoys one-on-one HIV/STD testing and counseling. She is a passionate ally for LGBT civil rights,
and is a proud PFLAG Mom.
Jenna Simmons
Jenna Simmons is a member of GLSEN Connecticut's Jump-Start Team. She is also a senior at North Branford High School where she is the president of the
North Branford Best Buddies chapter. In her spare time, she enjoys working with children with disabilities, shopping, and hanging out with friends.
Nina Simone Lawrence
(860) 841-9199
nina.s.lawrence@gmail.com
Nina first discovered Zumba® three years ago when she was attending a weight-loss program, and through that program and Zumba® she successfully shed
35 pounds off of her body. Nina has a background in dance and cardio kickboxing and is often described by her class participants as an energetic and
enthusiastic instructor. She is also a member of the True Colors Board of Directors.
Dexter Singleton, BA
(203) 809-9296
dsingleton@socialchangetheatre.org
Dexter has engaged many organizations and schools across the country with original workshops and programming as a public speaker in the areas of racism,
African American Studies, culture, diversity, and hip hop. Mr. Singleton is a working playwright of five regionally produced works, a director, and an actor.
Serving as Executive Director of Collective Consciousness Theatre, he is also the Head of Theatre at Regional Center for the Arts in Trumbull, CT.
P. Davis Smith, MD
860 673 1869
psmith@THOCC.ORG
Davis is Board-Certified in Internal Medicine. He works out of an office practice in Unionville CT (a village of Farmington) and provides general primary care
internal medicine with a special interest in primary care for transgender, gay and lesbian and adolescent patients. He also serves as Medical Director for
Trinity College’s Student Health Service and previously held the same position at Wesleyan university for 9 years. He is an experienced presenter.
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Allie Smith
Allie Smith is a college graduate who has been polyamorous since she was 17. She feels that the most difficult part about being polyamorous is dealing with
the lack of societal acceptance and understanding. She has been with her primary partner, Daniel, for the past three years. They plan on getting married and
continuing their polyamorous lifestyle.
Anthony Smokovich
Anthony Smokovich is a former Middle and High School Guidance Counselor for 18 years, highly respected speaker, group work practitioner, and Holistic
Counselor with a private practice in New Canaan Ct. He is on the Board of the Triangle Community Center and facilitates TCC's Monthly Meditation Program.
Anthony is also the proud father of a young adult son and daughter.
Skylar Spear
(203) 980-1210
skylarliam@gmail.com
Skylar is a 17 year old transman who has been involved in making life easier for other trans*folk (and any member of the queer community) since he came
out 3 years ago. He is an active Board Member and Jump-Start Student Leader for GLSEN Connecticut.
Laura Stamas
Laura Stamas has been teaching high school Biology for seven years and likes to incorporate information about safe sex into her science curriculum. When
she is not teaching she enjoys gardening, taking care of her 11 month old daughter, and walking with her dog Scarlet.
Katie Starr
katherine.starr@usma.edu
Katie is from Nashville, TN. She is a sophomore at West Point, majoring in Law and Legal Studies. She is a huge sports fan and lettered on the women's soccer
team at West Point her freshman year. She is the secretary of the newly founded GSA, Spectrum. The most rewarding thing for her is to be able to help
people who are struggling with their sexuality gain confidence.
Deborah Stewart B.S., CPP
(203) 789-7645 x109
dstewart@theconsultationcenter.org
Deborah Steart, B.S., CPP is the Director of the Youth Development Training and Resource Center at The Consultation Center. She has served as the Director
for the New Haven B.E.S.T. Initiative (Building Exemplary Systems for Training Community Youth Workers) since 1996. She served as Manager for CT for
Community Youth Development (CCYD) statewide initiative from 1998-2004, advising both providers and funders on best practices for youth engagement.
She serves on the Steering Committee for CT Public Allies as one of the co-founders of Public Allies Connecticut.
Dorothy Stickney
Dorothy Stickney is in the eighth grade. She lives in Maine with her family. She works with her school’s Civil Rights Team and yearly with Amnesty
International. She enjoys food, music, reading, shopping, and chillin’ with her homies.
Richard Stillson, PhD
(860) 262-6706
richard.stillson@po.state.ct.us
Dr. Richard Stillson is a psychologist and serves as the Director of Admissions, Education & Homeless Services at River Valley Services in Middletown. He is a
leader in providing specialized services for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities. He is a proud gay man who is also transgender. He has
been the proud mother of the House of Pleasure as Mucha Mucha Pleasure. He has been an activist within the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender
community in working to expand civil rights and to celebrate the diversity of the community.
Rev. Moonhawk River Stone, M.S., LMHC
(518) 506-1261
hawkrstone@aol.com
Reverend Moonhawk River Stone, M.S., LMHC, is an Interfaith Minister, psychotherapist, consultant, educator, writer and keynote speaker in private practice
in the Albany, NY area. In his psychotherapy private practice he works with transgender clients of all ages and with their families. His consulting and
educational work take him all over the country into corporations, colleges, K-12 schools, clinical and professional conferences. He has been working with
transgender children and adolescents for over 14 years.
Kennedy Strakose-Hagen
Kennedy Strakose-Hagen is a 17 year church-goer, a 15 year dancer, a 14 year student, and a 4 year social justice member. She is committed to openmindedness , exploring cultures, and obtaining a holistic lifestyle.
Missy Sturtevant MSW
(800) 530-2770
msturtevant@healthimperatives.org
Missy Sturtevant, MSW is the Program Coordinator for the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) Youth Support Project, OutHealth!, and the
Brockton Alliance of GLBT Youth (BrAGLY), programs of Health Imperatives. She provides trainings and technical assistance on GLBT cultural competency for
schools, youth-serving agencies, health care professionals, and community organizations. Missy also is an adult advisor for BrAGLY, a youth-led group for
GLBT and allied youth that meets weekly.
Brie Sullivan, BA
(860) 823-8250
Brie Sullivan is one of the founding members of Riot Prrl, a knitters' league for positive mischief. Motivated by creativity, a strong belief in the power of
positivity, a desire to help empower others, and her love of dinosaurs, Brie is knitting up Western MA, working with kids, and completing training to teach
yoga.
Rose Sullivan, MSW, PhD
(413) 387-9747
rsullivan@westfield.ma.edu
Rose Sullivan, MSW, PhD is an assistant professor in the Baccalaureate Social Work Program at Westfield State University. Rose received her MSW from the
University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and her PhD from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a clinician for a number of years, Rose has
focused her practice experience with children and families involved in the foster care system, and advocacy for traditionally marginalized clients.
Sadea Sweat
Sweeney
Sweeney is a rockin' high school student with a passion for sports (concussions are a priority), queerness and floaty things in the air. An active member of
social justice club at school, Sweeney has been an educator and activist in training for years now, with an emphases on human rights and community building.
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Carolyn Taggart, MS
(860) 368-0580
taggart@my.ccsu.edu
Carolyn is a recent graduate of the Student Development in Higher Education program at Central Connecticut State University. She completed her graduate
internship through the LGBT Center at CCSU. As an undergraduate, she was involved in student leadership and in advancing LGBT issues on campus. At the
2012 CCSU Lavender Graduation, she received the Founders Award for Contributions to the LGBT and Campus Community.
Brian Tessier
Brian@wehearthechildren.org
Brian Tessier is an activist and author who has chronicled the significant events in his decision to become a single adoptive parent and the adoption process.
The central theme and heartfelt message is to never give up the dream of becoming a parent. Tessier's sense of humor and knowledge about the legal
process and his own experiences adopting twice intertwine into an unfolding story. IN the years Tessier has been a father he has been on the forefront of a
movement of men who are reshaping gender roles and what it means to be a man and a father in this era. Often featured on NPR, Huff-post Live and a guest
columnist both here in the US and abroad, he continually works to challenge the ideas of what manhood is and being a father. The sale of Brian's works (The
Greatest Wish-The Wildest Dream-The Poet and the Painter and The Intentional Father, Adventures is Adoptive Single Parenting) fund
WeHearTheChildren.com, which was founded and is run by Brian as well.
Jackie Torres
Matt Toscano
matthew.tuscano@gmail.com
Matt Tuscano recently graduated from UConn and continues at UConn this year as a first year doctoral student in the Human Development and Family
Studies department Marriage and Family Therapy program. Matt’s passion in research and clinical work is assisting LGBTQetc families and couples as well as
survivors of sexual assault. Matt also has a passion for activism and is co-founder of SlutWalk UConn and helps run UConn’s Men’s Project. He is also
obsessed with the color orange, a whovian, and an internet connoisseur.
Daniel Trust
lectures@danieltrust.com
Daniel Trust is a Youth Motivational Speaker and a Rwandan Genocide Survivor. He is currently a senior graduating this May from Southern Connecticut State
University with a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management. He is the founder of The Daniel Trust Foundation, Inc. a non-profit
organization with a mission of fostering links with charitable and educational organizations that aid orphaned children and provide resources to assist these
children in their educational and career goals, as well as in their day-to-day lives. To date, his foundation has donated over 500 school supplies such as
notebooks, pens, pencils, writing paper & many other supplies to the Maison de Lumiere School in Port-au-Prince, Haiti run by Child Hope International, a
charity that helps abandoned Haitian orphans. Daniel Trust speaks 5 languages and has travelled to 6 countries.
Onoh Udensi
Diana Urban
Diana was elected to the CT General Assembly Nov. 7, 2000. She is presently the Chair of the Select Committee on Children and the Results Based
Accountability Sub Committee of the Appropriations Committee. In addition, she serves on the Environment Committee and the Program Investigations and
Review Committee. She is most proud of being named one of Governing’s Public Officials of the Year in 2010 for her work on accountability and transparency
in Government.
R. William Valliere B.A.
rwv212@Lehigh.edu
R. William Valliere is a Masters candidate in Political Science at Lehigh University. He studied at Lehigh for his undergraduate degree as well, earning a
Bachelors degree in Global Studies with a Minor in Japanese in May of 2012. Besides being the current Graduate Assistant in the Rainbow Room at Lehigh, he
is also a Community Fellow in the AIDS Services Center at St. Luke's Community Health Department in Bethlehem, PA.
Kristin Van Ness
kristin.van_ness@uconn.edu
Kristin Van Ness is a doctoral student in the Human Development and Family Studies program at UConn. She spends her days teaching and doing research to
support queer couples and families. Before grad school, she worked as the coordinator to the LGBT Center at CCSU where she developed and ran the Safe
Zone program. When Kristin isn’t fighting for social justice, you’ll find her with her fiancée laughing, cooking, and watching reruns of “30 Rock”.
Stacey Violante Cote, JD, MSW
(860) 570-5327 x227
sviolant@kidscounsel.org
Director, Teen Legal Advocacy Project, Attorney at the Center for Children’s Advocacy since 2001 and Director of the Center’s Teen Legal Advocacy Project
since 2003. She works with teens in the Greater Hartford area including Hartford public school students, youth in the care of the Department of Children and
Families, and homeless youth. Stacey graduated from University of Connecticut School of Law in 2001 and University of Connecticut School of Social Work in
2000.
Gretchen Vivier, MSW
(860) 798-3280
gav653@sbcglobal.ne t
Gretchen Vivier received her MSW with a major in Community Organizing from the University of Connecticut in 2002. She served as Director of the Health
Care for All Coalition at CCAG and Health Care Organizer at NASW/CT where she led efforts to expand access to health care through base building, education,
advocacy and lobbying. Gretchen has also taught math, worked in the actuarial field and reared three wonderful children.
Nicole von Oy, MSW
(203) 772-4420
nicole@love146.org
Nicole von Oy, MSW is the Love146 US Training & Outreach Coordinator. In this role she is responsible for the TIME4Girls program, which includes training
adult professionals on issues of Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children as well as mentoring and implementing prevention education with adolescents.
She currently facilitates the My Life, My Choice and Tell Your Friends curricula in schools and residential/congregate care settings across Connecticut.
Rebecca Webber
Rebecca is a 17 year old graduating senior from Classical Magnet School. Active member in various community service clubs and public health services.
During her junior year of high school, she completed a study abroad program in France. She wishes to study pre-med and then to work in Africa for the
organization Doctors without Borders.
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Patricia Wilcox LCSW
Patricia D. Wilcox, LCSW, Vice President, Klingberg Family Centers, New Britain, specializes in treatment of traumatized children and families created the
Restorative Approach™ , a trauma- and relationship-based method. She is a Trainer for Risking Connection® an Adjunct Faculty at UConn School of Social
Work. She’s presented at national conferences: NASW; American Association of Children’s Residential Centers; Alliance for Children and Families; CWLA;
Black Administrators of Child Welfare, Attach, Author of Trauma Informed Care: The Restorative Approach (NEARI Press).
Shannon Wilcox
Shannon is a junior at Metropolitan Learning Center and a veteran member of their Gay Straight Alliance.
Tracey Wilson, PhD.
Tracey has history for 36 years in West Hartford. She has been "out" in the classroom for the past five years. Tracy serves as the faculty advisor for the GSA at
her school.
Bryttney Wingate
Calliope Wong
Calliope Wong is a decidedly-queer pansexual transwoman senior from Amity High School, Connecticut, all at the same time. She is also a SOCO team student
leader in GLSEN’s Connecticut chapter.
Daniel Woodberry
Dan Woog BA
(203) 227-1755
dwoog@optonline.net
Dan Woog is an openly gay soccer coach (Staples High School, Westport, CT), and the author of the "Jocks" book series about gay athletes. He writes a
monthly column on LGBT sports ("The Outfield"), which is syndicated nationally. He is a co-founder of OutSpoken, Fairfield County's LGBT youth group. And
he is a member of the Connecticut Soccer Hall of Fame.
Allison Wright, JD
(617) 778-6724
awright@glad.org
Allison joined the GLAD team in April of 2012 after moving from San Francisco, CA where she attended and graduated from UC Hastings College of the Law in
2011. She attended Spelman College. where she graduated magna cum laude in 2008 with a B.A. in Political Science. As a strong advocate for human rights,
Allison has dedicated most of her educational and bourgeoning career pursuits to advancing and promoting human rights issues. She has worked for Bay Area
Legal Aid, the San Francisco Human Rights Commission and the Legal Aid Society – Employment Law Center located in San Francisco, CA.
Alexandra Yang
(860) 420-8230
priestessofathe@gmail.com
For Alexandra Yang, often the most interesting question is not, "What was said?", but rather, "What was *not* said?", for the latter can be enticingly
recursive. She hopes that this method of inquiry might one day help her unravel the curious enigma of why humans want sex. Alexandra Yang is never one to
rest on her laurels. In every field in which she is a supporter, she always stops to question the common assumptions and 'conventional wisdom' held by
longer-time members. She currently identifies as a strong firebrand atheist and revolutionary socialist.
Luis Zabala
luisrzabala@gmail.com
Current sophomore at Bard College at Simon's Rock. Admitted to college early at the age of 15 on a full merit scholarship. Co-president of school's Latino
Student Alliance, Communications Director for school's Model United Nation, school biology and Spanish tutor and Youth Advisory Board Member of Plan
International USA.
Stephanie Zazanis
szazanis11@simons-rock.edu
Sophomore at Bard College at Simon's Rock, majoring in History and Social Action/Social Change. Queer feminist, dedicated to social justice activism in all of its
forms. Mostly Lutheran; it's complicated.
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True Colors 20

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