Student Stories: Past Award Recipients

B. J. Warren
Evansville High School
2003 Scholarship Recipient
Growing up in the small town of Evansville had its ups and downs as I transitioned from being a closeted teenager to an activist student ready to snuff out homophobia every chance I could. But the perks came from knowing that I could take on any challenge, no matter how much my heart pounded or my conscience told me to simply take a backseat. By forming the first GSA in Evansville and proudly announcing my sexuality, my entire personality changed from the shy kid living down Main Street to the adult that was ready to tackle any problem.

The leadership skills and courage I gained from my experiences at Evansville and with GSAFE carried me through my entire college career at Millikin University in central Illinois. As a freshman, eager to spread some more activist spirit, I helped to get the Gay, Lesbian Student Association of Millikin back up and running after it had dissipated several years prior. Because school work and other extra-curricular activities took their toll, I had to set GLAAM aside, but continued to watch it grow. I graduate this year with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Management and am in pursuit of graduate studies to further my education in the upcoming years.

The most important thing I can say to any young activist is to have the courage to stand up for your convictions, but be ready, because they won't be taken lightly. Always strive to learn more and be ready to grow. By doing so, you can educate so many others!