Mosaic of North Central Wisconsin's Mission is to ensure North Central Wisconsin is the place individuals choose to live and work because differences are embraced; individuals feel connected, valued, and supported; and there is a strong sense of belonging.
Description
Come and meet Andrew, a recent high school graduate who plans to major in music performance at
UW-Milwaukee this fall. He and his mom will share his journey as a transgender child and student in
today’s world. Acceptance and inclusion at an early age has led to some fascinating personal growth in
this family. While Andrew knew from as early as he can remember that he was very different from his
peers, it wasn’t until he was a freshman in high school that he learned about gender identity and gender
dysphoria. The medical perspective is equally important especially when pediatricians are accepting and
supportive. Dr. James Meyer, Adolescent Pediatrician through Marshfield Clinic Health Systems helped
to supply the medical information and details for this presentation.
Andrew and his mom decided to share his transgender journey for the first time at the Toward One
Wisconsin Conference on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in 2019. We believe it’s powerful when you
have both the child and parent perspective. We hope you leave with: a better understanding of the
transgender experience; methods for creating a gender inclusive environment and a greater
appreciation for transgender people
Andrew and his mom will share his journey as a transgender child, student and young adult in today’s
world. Acceptance and inclusion at an early age has led to some fascinating personal growth in this
family. While Andrew knew from as early as he can remember that he was very different from his peers,
it wasn’t until he was a freshman in high school that he learned about gender identity and gender
dysphoria. This session includes not only personal experiences but also definitions, medical terminology
and creating safe spaces.
Andrews Bio:
Andrew (he/him) was born and raised in Stevens Point, WI. He graduated from SPASH and completed a
few years of college at UW-Milwaukee and then dreaded COVID hit. As a young adult, he finds time to
do the things he loves to do like hang with friends and family, weight lifting, skiing, video editing and
playing with his pets. He is also a pretty awesome drummer!
Kelly's Bio:
Andrew’s mom, Kelly (she/her), also lived her entire life in Central WI and graduated from UW-Stevens
Point with an education degree. She is currently the Executive Director of Childcaring, Inc. and has
worked in early childhood education for most of her adult life. Kelly loves to hang with her two young
adult kids and enjoys being active. She likes spending time with her sisters and traveling with her yaya
friends!
Date & Time
Mon, Jun 16, 2025 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM