Honoring History, Community, and Achievement
Every October, Worcester Polytechnic Institute recognizes LGBTQIAP+ History Month as an opportunity to learn about the people, movements, and achievements that have shaped LGBTQ+ history. The month also gives us a chance to celebrate members of the LGBTQIAP+ community whose work continues to influence science, technology, culture, and public life.
A Short History
LGBTQ+ History Month began in 1994 through the work of Missouri teacher Rodney Wilson and other educators who wanted LGBTQ+ history to be more visible in schools and communities. October was chosen in part because it includes National Coming Out Day on October 11 and anniversaries connected to major LGBTQ+ rights marches in Washington, D.C.
Why October?
October was also selected because schools and universities are in session, making it a useful time for education, discussion, and greater visibility of LGBTQ+ history.
Key Dates in October
- October 11 – National Coming Out Day
- October 12 – Matthew Shepard Remembrance
- October 15 – International Pronouns Day
- October 15 – Spirit Day
People to Know: LGBTQ+ Figures in STEM and Beyond
- Nergis Mavalvala — Physicist at MIT whose work contributed to LIGO and gravitational-wave detection. She is also a visible LGBTQ+ role model in STEM.
- Sally Ride — Physicist and astronaut who became the first American woman in space in 1983. She later became an important advocate for STEM education.
- Ben Barres — Stanford neuroscientist whose research transformed the study of glial cells. He was also a prominent transgender scientist and advocate for equity in science.
- Alan Turing — Mathematician and computing pioneer whose work helped shape modern computer science and wartime cryptanalysis.
- Lynn Conway — Computer engineer whose work helped transform modern chip design and who later became a major transgender advocate in technology.
Upcoming Events Near WPI
October 10 – LGBT Asylum Task Force Gala 2026: We Persist
Mechanics Hall, Worcester | 5:30–11:00 PM | Event information
October 28 – Author Talk: Nicholas Boggs – Baldwin: A Love Story
Boston Public Library, Copley Square | 6:00–7:30 PM | Event information
Resources
- WPI ODIME
- ODIME's LGBTQIAP+ Student Support Page
- Pride Worcester
- LGBT Asylum Task Force
- Boston Public Library Events
- Fenway Health
ODIME Logo
The Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Multicultural Education (ODIME) promotes and oversees student-facing learning experiences, programs, services, trainings, and initiatives for WPI.
