10 Questions With Tommy Lee

A rainbow neon sign casts a welcoming glow in Tommy Lee's office, where student conversations are a priority. Photo by Dan Loh.

A rainbow neon sign casts a welcoming glow in Tommy Lee's office, where student conversations are a priority. Photo by Dan Loh.

LGBTQ+ Center director shares vision for future

by MaryAlice Bitts-Jackson

Roughly a year since Thomas "Tommy" Lee (he/him/his) joined Dickinson as director of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer & Questioning (LGBTQ+) Center, we asked him how it’s going, his vision for the future and more.

1. You’ve worked in Mozambique, Guyana and Botswana. How do those experiences inform your current work?

My work in these countries focused on supporting adolescent girls, peer educators living with HIV and LGBTQIA+ activists. I was inspired by these individuals who fight for basic rights and inclusion in environments where their identities were often criminalized or deeply stigmatized. 

Through these experiences, I saw firsthand how marginalized communities facing tremendous adversity could come together, advocate for themselves and create real change. I learned the power of resilience and community mobilization and the importance of listening to people’s lived experiences to inform effective action. I also developed a broader understanding of how interconnected struggles for equity and justice are. This drives my commitment to fostering inclusive spaces and advocating for policies that support LGBTQIA+ students.

2. What brought you to Dickinson?

Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ centers remain relatively rare on college campuses. Dickinson has not only maintained one for over a decade but also entrusts its leadership to a director-level administrator. That’s very telling about the college’s serious commitment to LGBTQ+ work.

I was excited to see that the center is part of Dickinson’s Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). I think it’s critically important to think about LGBTQIA+ work through DEI frameworks and as a core pillar of belonging across the institution. I also love that this role allows me to work with colleagues and students who value the impact we’re striving to make.

3. What’s it like, day to day?

No two days feel alike, and a well-planned week can quickly pivot to support a student in need or help an exciting new idea come to life.

A lot of time and consideration goes into producing events on campus that raise LGBTQIA+ visibility and foster queer and trans joy. I also educate others about LGBTQIA+ competencies, allyship and meaningful inclusion.

One-on-one conversations with students are some of my most valued interactions. Whether they need help connecting with affirming resources, are looking to effect change on campus, or simply just need someone to listen to them, I always prioritize making myself available. I also take any chance to advocate for more inclusive policies and practices collegewide, whether that’s through formal committee work or through conversations and relationships with stakeholders.

4. What are you most proud of so far? What’s the biggest challenge?

I’m proud of the center’s very existence and the profound impact it has had. The longevity of the programs and the college’s commitment to LGBTQIA+ visibility on campus is something I don’t take lightly. Carrying the torch of this work feels like a privilege, and I’m mindful of the responsibility that comes with it. I’m also deeply proud of our student-workers. They’re the heartbeat of the center and the real change agents on campus. Watching them grow, advocate for themselves and others, and take ownership of this work is fulfilling.

As for challenges, the national climate is a pressing concern. Shifting policies and a growing hostility toward LGBTQIA+ communities in many parts of the country create a complex environment to navigate—and reaffirm our purpose.

5. What surprises you most? 

I shouldn’t be surprised by this, but everyone has been so friendly and welcoming. This work can feel isolating at times, and it’s helpful to feel seen and connected. I particularly want to give a shout out to the alumni community, which has been incredibly enthusiastic and invested in the center’s success. I’ve really enjoyed connecting with alumni on campus and regionally.

6. What do you wish more people understood about your work?

I wish more people understood that issues relating to gender and sexuality are not just about individual identity. They’re also about systems of power, privilege and oppression that affect every aspect of our lives, and they’re deeply tied to access to resources, safety and well-being. LGBTQIA+ individuals face unique challenges that are interconnected with societal inequities, from mental and physical health disparities to discrimination in education, housing and employment. Our work is not just about creating safe spaces or running programs; it's about advocating for systemic change, ensuring that policies are inclusive and educating others to be allies.

I also wish more people understood that inclusion and equity are ongoing processes, not checkboxes to be ticked off. Real change takes sustained effort and collaboration across all parts of the institution.

7. What do you want people to know about navigating differences?

There’s a saying in conflict transformation: “Rather than a problem or issue being ‘me vs. you,’ it should be ‘you and I against the problem.’” It’s important to prioritize collaboration and keep dialogue going until you find common ground, grow understanding and build enough trust to move forward.

It’s also important to balance confidence with humility and empathy. You can demand that your dignity be respected while still extending grace and kindness to others.

8. What’s your vision for the center?

I hope we can build a strong network of support so our students feel a deep sense of belonging and have access to meaningful affinity spaces and connections. We’ll continue to advocate for best practices and policies that enhance inclusivity across campus. Ultimately, the LGBTQ+ Center will continue to help foster an environment that celebrates diversity, challenges discrimination and empowers individuals to embrace their authentic selves.

9. What inspired you to serve marginalized communities?

I am queer, and I am so proud to show up in spaces as my authentic self. I recognize that with this pride comes the responsibility to ensure that anyone who’s ever been told and believed that they do not belong may know this feeling of worth. I approach this work humbly, knowing my own humanity is rooted in the humanity of others. 

10. What do you like to do outside of work? 

I’m pursuing a Ph.D. in population health with a focus on LGBTQIA+ health, and my fiancé and I are getting married this spring, so there’s not a lot of extra time! I do like to make time for gardening when I get the chance. 

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Published October 2, 2024