Katie Papson, Ally 
Graduate Student, College Student Personnel
GA, Residence Life                            
Alumni: Ohio University ’05,Anthropology and Women’s Studies

INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
Assistant Resident Director,Atkinson Hall Council Advisor 

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT or TO BE AN ALLY?
 I feel it is important to support members of the LGBT community because everyone deserves respect, love, and equality.

WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”?  WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
 I am very proud of my friends who are out and living their lives to the fullest. Coming out can be very difficult and I am proud to know people who are openly LGBT and being true to themselves. 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
Stay strong!  Be true to yourself and come out when you are ready.  Be prepared to deal with close-minded people but also remember how many people support and love you for whom you really are. 

THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
No one should be defined solely by their sexuality.  Don’t assume every one in the room is heterosexual. Get to know members of the LGBT community and help make fill this world with equality and love.