As Pride Month wraps up, Wittenberg expresses gratitude to Chad Minnick ’98, the new president of the alumni association, for his inspiring words at the Lavender Celebration.
Good evening! It’s a joy to be with you all tonight. Back when I was here, we didn’t have the Lavender Graduation, and I’m proud of you for making it happen. This week is about celebrating your achievements and reflecting on what comes next.
You’re stepping into a world that’s different for the LGBTQIA+ community than it was when you started. Challenges still exist, especially for Black and Brown Trans and Nonbinary individuals. One piece of advice stands out: community matters.
There are two kinds of community. The “little c” community is your local area and people. The “Big C” Community is what you build and uplift together. This larger community creates profound changes in the smaller one.
History shows the power of community. When faced with adversity, we came together. The Stonewall uprising was a collective response to oppression, giving birth to the modern gay rights movement. During the AIDS crisis, our community rallied to provide care and advocate for crucial funding for research and treatment.
Tragic events like the attacks in Orlando and Colorado Springs showed us how vital it is to support one another. We mourned and celebrated lives lost while standing together in love.
Community is essential for all of us, but it’s especially vital for the queer community. Personally, my community has been my lifeline, whether celebrating milestones or helping me cope during tough times like long-term unemployment. Simple gestures, like gathering friends for a casual day party or sending a quick text, can strengthen connections.
These moments may seem small, but they cultivate a supportive network around us. As you prepare to step into the world, know that opportunities await to build and expand your community.
I asked others in my circles for their best advice for recent grads. Here are some nuggets that stood out:
- Be true to yourself even when times are tough. – Pocket, Non-binary
- Live fully—not just the length of your life but its width. – Madeline, cis ally
- Focus on changing your immediate world rather than feeling overwhelmed by the bigger picture. – Brendan, cis ally
- Embrace your community—it’s your strength. – Jennifer, cis ally
As you navigate this transition, remember:
- Your existence is political; your visibility matters.
- Joy within our community is essential to our thriving.
You’ve faced challenges over the last four years, but that resilience will serve you well.
So, here’s my charge to you:
- Be yourself.
- Engage with where you are.
- Be open to new experiences.
- Love fiercely.
- Live authentically.
Change starts with the conversations you have with those around you. Let’s continue to build a joyful and supportive queer community, spreading that joy to everyone.
Thank you!
Chad Minnick is a psychology major from Wittenberg and resides in Seattle, where he leads teams dedicated to excellent customer experiences. He currently serves on the Board of Leadership Eastside and will begin as president of the Wittenberg Alumni Association on July 1, 2025.
