About Us
USGA (Understanding Sexuality, Gender, and Allyship) is an unofficial group of BYU students, faculty, and guests who wish to enhance the BYU community by providing a safe space for open, respectful conversation on intersectional LGBTQ+ topics.
USGA is a place of refuge. Our priority is to have compassion and to seek understanding through listening. Harassment or antagonism against any person or organization will not be tolerated. We ask our members to be mindful of USGA’s political neutrality, and to be respectful of differing opinions regarding BYU and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Reporting individuals on the basis of gender or sexuality to the Honor Code Office will not be tolerated. USGA will neither support nor oppose BYU’s Honor Code or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but will always ensure meeting spaces are safe for everyone to share their beliefs and experiences.
In order to maintain a safe and welcoming environment, we expect all participants to be respectful of others’ names, pronouns, and identities. Do not make assumptions or ask others to unwillingly disclose their identity or beliefs.
While USGA is a supportive community, we are run by students and not professional therapists. We encourage anyone experiencing emotional distress to visit Flourish, Celebrate, CAPS, or one of the other mental health resources listed on our website.
If you have come to understand, to be understood, and to build community, you’ve found the right place. USGA welcomes you.
Meet Our
Leadership
USGA is run by several BYU students who volunteer their time and talents to host events, facilitate projects, and offer a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals in the BYU community. Our Leadership team consists of several committees, each who
specialize in facilitating unique aspects of the group and community.
Evelyn Telford
(She/Her)
President
Mica Deustua
(She/Her)
Vice President of Committees
Teo
(Any Pronouns)
Vice President of Projects
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Penny B
(She/Her)
Treasurer
​
Elianna (Eli)
(She/Her/They)
Photographer/Videographer
​
Brooke Andreasen
(She/Fae)
Secretary
​
Caleb
(He/They)
Author
​
Kira
(She/Her)
Editor
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