Schuyler Bailar is the first transgender athlete to compete in any sport on an NCAA Division 1 men's team. He is also an internationally-celebrated inspirational speaker and inclusion advocate.
By 15, he was one of the nation's top-20 15-year-old breaststrokers. By 17, he set a national age-group record. In college, he swam for Harvard University, on the winningest Harvard team in 50 years. Schuyler's difficult choice – to transition while potentially giving up the prospect of being an NCAA Champion – was historic and timely. His story has appeared everywhere from 60 Minutes to The Ellen Show. Schuyler's tireless advocacy of inclusion through public speaking and social media (@pinkmantaray) has earned him numerous notable honors.
Over the past three years, Schuyler has delivered over 100 talks about his experience. In addition to LGBTQ+ issues, his discussion includes masculinity, mental health and eating disorders, and overcoming obstacles such as breaking his back.
Schuyler graduated from Harvard University in May 2019 with a degree in Cognitive Neuroscience and Evolutionary Psychology. This event is part of his 7-week speaking tour before he begins his job teaching emotional intelligence skills at a Seattle company in October.
About the Diversity Lecture Series
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion is proud to present the Diversity Lecture Series, a series that features distinguished leaders and experts to inspire campus dialogue, community engagement and learning about the national narrative on diversity and inclusion. The speakers include scholars, thought leaders and diversity professionals whose research, scholarship, leadership and advocacy enhance the university's efforts to present diverse ideas, perspectives and viewpoints to inspire greater understanding and appreciation for diversity and inclusion.
The Diversity Lecture Series was made possible through support of various university departments at Wichita State University.
All events are free and open to the public.
For more information, contact the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at (316) 978-3034.