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Telling Our Stories: Queer[ing] Safe & Inclusive Public Service
Join ASPA’s LGBT Advocacy Alliance Section for an interactive, dialogue-centered session focused on sharing lived experiences and navigating career pathways in public service.
This webinar creates a dedicated, safe space to reflect on the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and public service careers & how we can better connect, mentor, and support public servants at every stage.
Panelists will share their personal journeys—highlighting systemic and professional obstacles encountered due to sexual identity, strategies for resilience and adaptation, and actionable ideas on how our professional community can better connect, mentor, and support public servants at every stage.
Key Session Themes:
Personal Narrative & Career Pathways: Hearing real stories of navigating public service as an LGBTQ+ professional.
Overcoming Obstacles: How adjustments, strategies, and community support help overcome identity-related challenges.
Building Connections: Co-creating solutions and support networks for inclusive governance and public administration.
Interactive Dialogue: Open Q&A and attendee participation designed for active reflection and shared learning.
Leadership & Speakers
Presiding: Richard Greggory Johnson III (He/Him) (Chair, ASPA LGBT Professor, University of San Francisco Fellow, National Academy of Public Administration)
Co-Chair: Lorenda Naylor (She/Hers) Professor, University of Baltimore)
Co-Chair & Discussant: Claire Mostel (She/Hers) (Retired, Miami-Dade County)
Featured Panelists:
Zane Zupan (They/Them) — Director of People and Culture, Public Interest Law Association
Roger Hartley (He/Him) — President-Elect, ASPA & Fellow, National Academy of Public Administration
Vincent Birkenmeyer (He/Him/His) — Senior Director of Housing Operations and PLV Residential Life, Pace University
Tech Support:
José Luis Irizarry (He/Him) (Assistant Professor, North Carolina Central University)
Who Should Attend?
Public service professionals, scholars, students, administrators, and allies who are passionate about advancing equity, inclusion, and authentic representation in public administration.
Join us as we reflect, share, and build stronger support networks together!