Nicole Maines, subject of Arcadia’s First-Year Common Read Selection Becoming Nicole: The Transformation of an American Family, visited campus on Oct. 5 to discuss her courageous efforts to embrace life, expand her family’s understanding of gender identity, and secure transgender rights for students.

At Arcadia, Maines also met with a select group of undergraduates to address the importance of LGBTQ activism and safe spaces on college campuses.

“University support has a profound effect,” said Maines. “If you want to make yourself visible as an ally, one of the first steps is to get involved in your campus community through LGBTQ events and conversations. Utilize your voice.”  

Maines was joined by her father, Wayne, who stressed acceptance as key to maintaining students’ love for learning. An advocate of inclusive educational environments, Wayne led a workshop with faculty, staff, and local K-12 educators to advance support for LGBTQ students.