![PRIDE Month 2021]()
During the month of June, we celebrate people who identify as LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual, and nonconforming) and the contributions they’ve made to science and medicine. We also stand up against discrimination, violence, and any forms of hate against LGBTQIA+ communities.
Einstein PRIDE Board
![Left to right: Kristopher Ruiz (he/him), Sarah Singer (she/her/they/them), Jarrett Lopez-Scarim (he/him), Anne Chu (she/her), Amy Kelleher (she/her) and Patryk Kubiszewski (he/him).]()
Left to right: Kristopher Ruiz (he/him), Sarah Singer (she/her/they/them), Jarrett Lopez-Scarim (he/him), Anne Chu (she/her), Amy Kelleher (she/her) and Patryk Kubiszewski (he/him).
Einstein PRIDE seeks to create a healthy, welcoming, inclusive community among LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, staff, and allies. We organize social activities on campus and engage in community events to learn more about the surrounding LGBTQIA+ community, and we work to foster conversations about navigating careers as LGBTQIA+ individuals. Einstein PRIDE has had valuable opportunities to collaborate with other activism organizations to promote positive change for the LGBTQIA+ community and other marginalized communities within New York.
Octavia Lewis, M.P.A. (She/Her/Hers)
![Octavia Lewis, M.P.A.]()
Octavia Lewis, M.P.A.
Transgender Health Coordinator, TransWellness Centers
I’m an activist, an advocate, a mother, and an African American woman of transgender experience living with HIV. A highlight of my career has been working with individuals who have chosen Montefiore to support them in their health and wellness journeys. Seeing the emotions people have once they’re able to live in their authentic truth has made all I’ve been through worthwhile. My mentor, Avery Wyatt, taught me, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” It’s important to have empathy for our community.
Rodney Wright, M.D. (He/Him/His)
![Rodney Wright, M.D.]()
Rodney Wright, M.D.
Professor, Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women’s Health
Visibility is important so that members of our LGBTQIA+ community know they’re welcomed and valued here. Visibility and education will help promote wider acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQIA+ community. My advice to those reading this is to be true to yourself. You’ll excel when you follow your passions and what you love.
Mary Gover, M.D. (She/Her/Hers)
![Mary Gover, M.D.]()
Mary Gover, M.D.
Assistant Professor, Medicine
A decade ago, I chose Montefiore because of how inclusive and welcoming it is. At that time, it was less common for institutions to be queer-friendly. I continue to be impressed by the culture of acceptance and the forward-thinking approach to clinical excellence for LGBTQIA+ patients. I am proud to have colleagues across the institution committed to partnering with and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ Bronx community.
Robert Beil, M.D., AAHIVS (He/Him/His)
![Robert Beil, M.D.]()
Robert Beil, M.D.
Medical Director, Prevention Program; Transgender Health Program
One of the exciting initiatives we’ve undertaken has been launching the Sexual and Gender Minority Grand Rounds. Since the majority of Montefiore and Einstein associates trained in a time when and a place where there was insufficient instruction on LGBTQIA+ healthcare, we’ve developed a monthly Zoom lecture series to catch us all up. Topics include talks on gender-diverse youth, advances in PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and LGBTQIA+ families. Students can also gain credits for attending. Learn more by emailing sgmgrandrounds@montefiore.org.