Ben Walter:
Every July, the LGBTQ Affinity Group changes leadership. Typically co-chairs serve for two years, starting in alternating years. It’s bittersweet to say that my term is ending. I’ve been involved with the group since I was hired nearly five years ago, and I was honored to be nominated to be co-chair. Serving as co-chair has brought me joy and strengthened my connection to Yale and New Haven’s queer communities.
I’m sad to announce that Zoe Keller will also be stepping down as co-chair. In her own words:
My workload has than tripled over the last year, and I’m no longer able to serve the group in the same way. That said, I want to be more involved than as just a steering committee member, at least for a little while. I’ve contributed in tangible ways in terms of institutional memory (which can be leveraged into action) and having a vision for our group as a place of intersectionality. I don’t want to withdraw that lived experience. Doing this work, interacting with AG leaders, supporting newcomers, thinking deeply – it nourishes me and makes me better at my paid job. So for selfish reasons also, I don’t want to step away. I will continue on as co-chair emeritus for the next year, assisting the group’s new co-chairs.
The affinity group will be left in extremely capable hands—I’m excited to announce that Dafna Paltin and Daniel Davidson are stepping up as new co-chairs! Both have been with the group for several years and have become integral parts of our steering committee. Their experience in the public health sector and dedication to the group made them clear choices for co-chairing. Read on to see their welcome messages.
Daniel Davidson
Engaging with the Affinity Group was important for me when I started at Yale in late 2017, brand new to New Haven. I continue to see the AG as a key resource for employees looking for support, whether that be with challenges in their work environment, accessing healthcare, or just finding camaraderie.
Dafna and I enter the roles with a shared commitment to improving diversity, inclusion, and equity within our group and across the university. I bring with me experience in the HIV field advocating for, and developing policies and programs to support members of sexual minority communities. Rather than seeing this experience as preparing me to know what our diverse constituents need, I see it as teaching me to value listening, shared decision making, and stepping back to make space for more marginalized voices. No organization can be everything to everyone, but I look forward to making our AG a platform to support your needs and goals. And if you’re (un?)lucky I might even run another improv night.
Dafna Paltin
It is an honor and privilege to serve our community as the LGBTQ Affinity Group Co-Chair. I am excited to build on the important work of previous leaders and continue their legacy of inclusivity and advocacy. The LGBTQ affinity group has been a pillar of support for me since moving to New Haven, and I cherish the connections I’ve made through fun activities and events. Being seen is an invaluable experience that I want all of our community members to experience. I have personally benefited from this group, and have witnessed the amazing results of our activism and social engagement. What I will bring to this role is an increased emphasis on intersectionality, diversity, and a platform for historically underrepresented minority voices. I am deeply committed to championing the interests of our community members, and I look forward to building a culture together that actively reflects our values.