Two years into an ongoing pandemic, Pride Alumni Alliance (PAA) co-chair Walker Sands, Kogod/MBA ’14, says that the PAA is finally reconnecting to the LGBTQ+ community at AU and beyond. This Pride Month marks efforts for the organization to celebrate in new ways, including the return of Night Out at the Nationals in mid-June and a visit to Mary’s House, a DC nonprofit that provides housing and community for LGBTQ+ elders. 

“It's very exciting to see the AU Pride Alumni Alliance begin to safely return to in-person events once again,” said PAA co-chair Foster Curry, CAS/BA ’10. “In addition to the alumni events, I hope that the PAA will be a true resource for all alumni and a space for our community to engage and grow with one another throughout the year.” 

Events like May’s Pride Affinity graduation to welcome new Eagles to the alumni community, celebrating their achievements and honoring their identity, was one of the organization’s first in-person events since the start of the pandemic, offering an opportunity for the type of LGBTQ+ celebration that is at the heart of Pride Month. 

"The Pride Affinity graduation is a great opportunity for LGBTQ+ students to get together with their loved ones to celebrate all the hard work that they have done,” said PAA member Cassidy Stoneback, SPA/BA ’22. “We deserve to celebrate ourselves and our achievements, and this is a chance for us to look back on the last few years with the people we care about."   

Though the pandemic halted PAA events for two years, pride on campus – even when students and faculty left campus for remote semesters – never fluctuated. According to Kevin Harrington, SIS/BA ’11, pride on campus “means that every AU community member feels included and secure to live their authentic truth without needing to cover or adjust their affectations.” 

“Each day, this pride may not look very different, but it is a pride that goes far beyond June or individual segments of the AU community,” Kevin said. “It is a pride that will come from accepting challenges, getting into “good trouble,” and truly delivering inclusive excellence.” 

This year, the PAA has plans to connect more students and alumni, expand their organization, emphasize the voices of AU’s transgender community, increase their visibility, and give forum to current LGBTQ+ students on campus. Walker says,  “This is the year we really push beyond just the fiduciary and get to the feelings of belonging, respect, and rejuvenation of our spirits.” 

According to Cassidy, who is a recent graduate, PAA has not only succeeded in connecting students and alumni but also connected her to role models within the community.  

“Every member of our community has something to offer, and I have been so glad to get to witness their greatness,” she said. “I will carry pride with me by remembering this lesson and embracing my individuality as I move through life. Pride is about lifting others so we can build a better future for us all--something that students at AU know a lot about.”