This page was created by Reilly Hughes.
Queer Alumni and Awards
The Pride Network represents a laudable stride towards amplifying the voices of those who may have previously felt marginalized at Lafayette College. Lia Parifax ’08, the co-founder of the national organization Athlete Ally and managing director of global initiatives at Out Leadership, has emphasized the group's purpose in promoting the essence of diversity and inclusion within the college's community. Such a noble objective is imperative in guaranteeing that all alumni, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feel seen and valued. Ms. Parifax's efforts are commendable, and her dedication to advancing equity and acceptance should serve as a guiding principle for all alumni.
Catherine Hanlon '79 recalls in her interview "a bunch of us that had come up to homecoming one weekend for my alumni year. And I remembered seeing this, you know, you saw the rainbow, and you know, and a welcome, and I’m like, seriously?" [Hanlon, 45:00]. This small gesture is a testament to the progress that has been made in promoting LGBTQ+ rights and visibility on campus. Similarly, Daniel Reynolds '08 has praised the creation of the Pride Network alumni group, stating that it provides a valuable opportunity to connect with other LGBTQ+ alumni and hear their stories. It is important to note that the experiences of LGBTQ+ alumni at Lafayette may have been different from those of their heterosexual counterparts. As Reynolds notes in his interview, it can be difficult to fully appreciate the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ students at Lafayette unless one has experienced them firsthand. Therefore, the creation of a space for LGBTQ+ alumni to share their experiences and perspectives is a positive step in promoting greater understanding and inclusivity.
In addition to its social impact, the establishment of the Lafayette Pride Network alumni group may hold significant economic implications for the college. Extensive research has indicated that organizations that prioritize diversity and inclusivity tend to perform better financially than those that do not. Forbes, for instance, analyzed S&P 500 companies in 2020 and found that companies with diverse management teams had nearly 10% higher earnings before interest and tax margins than companies with below-average management diversity. By fostering a more inclusive and accepting campus environment, Lafayette College is positioning itself for long-term economic success. It has already demonstrated its dedication to supporting LGBTQ+ students and promoting diversity and inclusion on campus through various programs and initiatives, many of which have been made possible through the generosity of donors.
The Professor Mary A. Armstrong Award and Mattachine Award at Lafayette College represent not only academic recognition for LGBTQ+ students but also monetary contributions that are crucial in advancing queer economics. These awards were made possible through the generosity of donors who recognize the importance of supporting LGBTQ+ students and promoting inclusivity on campus. The Armstrong Award not only encourages students to engage in social justice efforts but also provides financial assistance to LGBTQ+ students who are pursuing their academic goals. Similarly, the Mattachine Award provides recognition and financial support to students who are actively advocating for LGBTQ+ rights on campus. By attaching real money to LGBTQ+ issues, these awards break new ground. Thus, the awards contribute to the growth and development of queer economics in tangible ways and inspire students to continue their advocacy for marginalized communities.
In addition to scholarships and programming, donors have supported research initiatives related to LGBTQ+ issues. For example, the Queer Archives Project is a vital initiative that seeks to preserve and document Lafayette’s LGBTQ+ history, culture, and experiences. By collecting and archiving materials related to queer history, this project aims to ensure that these stories are not lost and that future generations have access to this important information. The Queer Archives Project also provides a platform for researchers and scholars, like myself, to study and explore the history of the LGBTQ+ community. Through our work, the Queer Archives Project supports the advancement of queer economics revealing the root causes of Lafayette's marginalization experienced by the queer community. By promoting a deeper understanding of the issues that impact the LGBTQ+ community, the project contributes to the growth and development of queer economics. The insights and knowledge gained from this research can inform policies and practices aimed at creating more equitable and inclusive economic systems, and ultimately lead to greater economic opportunities and security for the LGBTQ+ community.
In conclusion, while the exact number of LGBTQ+ alumni who have contributed to Lafayette College's impressive median donation figure is unknown, the establishment of the Lafayette Pride Network is a positive step in promoting diversity and inclusivity on campus. By providing a platform for LGBTQ+ alumni to share their experiences and perspectives through the QAP, the college is helping to ensure that all alumni feel heard and valued. Moreover, this focus on diversity and inclusivity could have important economic implications for the college in the long term.