LGBTQ Staff Network | StaffNet | The University of Aberdeen

LGBTQ+ Staff and Postgraduate Network

The University has an LGBTQ+ Staff Network Group, open to both LGBTQ+ staff, LGBTQ+ Postgraduate Students, and those with an interest in LGBTQ+ issues.

We would encourage people to be open and out with their sexuality and identity, but understand how hard coming out can be, and the wider worries about the impact on career prospects or family life. The Network is here to support you, please feel free to get in touch with any of the committee members and we’d be delighted to have a confidential chat or lend a friendly ear. We believe that the University of Aberdeen is a safe place for LGBTQ+ staff, but we will continue working to ensure this University is an LGBTQ+ friendly institution that embraces diversity and inclusive education.

The Network meets regularly, and you can find out about them via Facebook, Instagram, Teams and our internal Network mailing list. Some meetings are held on campus at lunchtimes, while other events take place outwith working hours in other venues. If you would like to be added to the mailing list in complete confidence, please email LGBT-staff@abdn.ac.uk. In this email please also state if you would like to be added to the Teams site.

If you have experienced HBT bullying or abuse, this can be reported (in confidence) via the Staff Network, HR team or via the Confidential Reporting site (Home · Confidential Reporting · University of Aberdeen (abdn.ac.uk)

Meet the Network

Lucy Holmes, Network Co-Chair

Queer ⚲ She/They

Originally from the North East of Scotland and living abroad for most of my childhood, I came back to the UK in my teen years and joined the University of Aberdeen in 2019 as one of the Lead Marketing Officers for the Business School, no two days are the same in marketing from working on creative brand campaigns and student recruitment events to market research and lots more!

I joined the network in 2021, then became Policy and Procedures Lead in 2022 and was recently elected as co-chair. Outside of work if I’m not playing video games and spending time with my partner and 7 cats (yes that’s right, 7!) you can usually find me hosting, writing or interviewing people in horror, my research specialises in queer theory in horror and I’ve been lucky enough to do a few lectures, publish books and present at conferences about my research.

Brian Mathias, Network Co-Chair

Gay Man ⚣ He/Him

Originally from the United States, I joined the University of Aberdeen as a Lecturer in Psychology in 2022. My research explores how insights from psychology and neuroscience can enhance educational practices for diverse populations. I teach both graduate and undergraduate courses in statistics, educational psychology, research methods, and cognitive neuroscience.

I am deeply committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of my work, and as co-chair of the LGBTQ+ Staff and PGT Network, I’m excited to support ongoing efforts to make the University an inclusive and welcoming place for everyone!

Brian's Staff Profile

Ellen, Policy and Procedures Lead

Bi/Queer ⚲ She/Her

"I have been living in Aberdeen since I joined the University as a student in 2016. I now work in The Careers and Employability Service. Day-to-day I help create opportunities for students to develop their skills and gain experience.

I currently hold the role for Policy and Procedures Lead within the LGBTQ+ Staff and PGT Network. I am really passionate about equality, diversity and inclusion and champion the importance of representation. I am Bi/Queer myself, something it took me a while to realise. So far, the network has been a great place to connect with others, learn more about myself and hear other people’s experiences. It is so important to me that the University is a place that values these kinds of connections and works to make meaningful change within and out with the organisation."

Kirsty Watret, Communication and Publicity Lead

Bi/Queer ⚲ She/Her

I first joined the University as a student and became a member of staff after graduating in 2018. I later left Aberdeen for sunnier climes but life brought me back here a couple of years ago and I returned to the university at the end of last year. I work in the International Team as the International Officer for Europe, UK International, and Central Asia so I usually get out and about quite a lot!

In keeping with my job theme, I’ve spent a lot of my life living in various countries so I tend to describe myself as Scottish by way of a lot of other places. Naturally I’m a bit of a wanderer so when I’m not travelling for work I like to spend time plotting my next adventure abroad or on more domestic adventures with my dog. I’m a big fan of good food so I’m always interested in trying out new places to eat or searching for recipe inspiration. I occasionally like a dip in the North Sea too, but will admit I haven’t braved this in winter yet.

I’m brand new to the LGBTQ+ Network, I was lured to the AGM with the promise of free breakfast and before I knew it I’d joined the committee! I’m excited to join the network and get involved.

Jenna Storey, Secretary

Ally She/Her

“Originally from Canada, I have lived and worked in the UK for 38 years. I was a professional Stage Manager in the West End (London) for 16 years, after completing my training at RADA.

I started working at the University in 2015 at the Taylor Library. I’m now based in the Sir Duncan Rice Library where my special areas of interest include Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Accessibility, Outreach and how we communicate with each other. I am an Elephant Rider, on a mission to change the workplace culture: re-humanise the people we are and the places we work.

I love meeting people and sharing different perspectives. Storytelling is such a powerful way to communicate. Working in an academic library is so rewarding because I get to meet people from all over the world. Different cultures, different views, different goals. This is my community.”

Ian Robotham, Special Advisor

Gay Man ⚣ He/Him

Originally from Yorkshire, Ian is an alumnus of the University’s School of Natural & Computing Sciences. He re-joined as a member of staff in 2008 working as a Software Developer building Virtual Learning Environments for the healthcare programmes. He is currently Assistant Director (Applications Management) within the Directorate of Digital & Information Services where he leads a busy section of the directorate, with a portfolio of over 150 applications of varying vintages, balancing the needs to keep business operations going, modernise technology platforms, deliver rapid solutions to meet urgent customer needs and balance the budgets!

Ian has a strong interest in Wellbeing and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and leveraging technology and management techniques to make the workplace a better environment for all. In 2019-2020, he was co-convenor for the Inclusive strand of the Aberdeen 2040 Strategy, helping to ensuring the long-term institutional strategy considered how to continue and advance equality, diversity and inclusion themes in the coming years. He also holds the roles of Mental Health Champion (for Digital & Information Services), Mental Health First Aider and is the lead/data contact for the Directorate of Digital & Information Services submission to the Tech Talent Charter.

Ian has been involved in the network since it first formed, holding the post of Co-chair until 2023 where he made the decision to step down due to work commitments. With all his expertise Ian continues to support the Network as a Special Advisor.

“For me being part of the network helps me to be a visible role model, something which I wish I had seen more of growing up. Throughout my life I have seen significant advancement of LGBT+ rights, however sadly there is still quite a lot of prejudice faced by many in the community and through my role with the network I hope to make the University an inclusive and welcoming space for the diverse range of people within the whole community.”

Zee Allison, Network Representative

Queer ⚲ They/Them

Originally from the Highlands, I’ve been at the University for about 10 years. My day job is running the University's Toolkit, and currently I hold the role of Non-Binary Representative for the Network.

I identify as non-binary, or 'enby'. Non-binary is an umbrella term to describe someone who doesn't exclusively identify as male or female, and may identify as seperate third gender, identify with more than one gender, no gender, or have a fluctuating gender identity.

I’ve found being part of the Network really rewarding; from helping to implement and design the University’s rainbow lanyards, to affecting real change in University policies and representing the community at Aberdeen Pride, the last few years have been interesting and challenging… here’s to many more!

Zee's Staff Profile

Louisa Stratton, Network Member

Bi/Queer Woman ⚥⚥ She/Her

I'm originally from Aberdeen, but moved away for uni only to return 15 years later. I studied Modern Languages and International Business at the University of Strathclyde, and spent time in France and Germany as part of my degree - and relive those exchange student days vicariously in my current role.

As a bi/queer woman (and mother) in a relationship with a man, it is easy for people to jump to the conclusion that I'm straight (and married) - when I'm neither of those things. Being part of the LGBTQ+ Staff Network has helped me to be more open with colleagues about who I am. Having visible role models who were openly bi would have meant the world to me growing up (bi invisibility/erasure is real!), so I hope that I can provide that visibility to help others know that they're not alone.

Louisa's Staff Profile

Nick Edwards, Network Member

Gay Man ⚣ He/Him

Nick is an alumnus of the University‘s School of Law and qualified as a Solicitor in 2011, working in corporate Pensions and Employment. He re-joined the University as a staff member in 2013, leading on the development of the institution’s immigration compliance processes across the student population. Since 2018, Nick has headed our Student Support Services and, in Autumn 2019, was appointed as acting Deputy Director of People. Nick co-chairs the Universities Gender Based Violence Working Group. Externally, Nick is a member of the Law Society of Scotland and is the institutional lead member of AMOSSHE Scotland.

"As Head of Student Support, I get to help our students through the entirety of the University career, from registering to Graduating, which is really rewarding – if not sometimes challenging along the way! Ultimately I am passionate about improving things for our students and the staff that support them – be that making processes easier and more clear; communications easier to read; or policy more accessible."

Nick's Staff Profile

Simone, Network Member

Lesbian ⚢ She/Her

“Although never studying at the University of Aberdeen, I have been a member of Staff for just over two years, originating in the Enquiry Team. I have recently moved to Registry as a Curriculum Administrator. Since joining the University, I also joined the LGBT+ staff network for the social and support aspect.

I am originally from Fife but have lived all over from England to Shetland and even Wales! Aberdeen has been home for many years now and I met my wife here too. I am an avid gamer and stream from time to time but also love travelling when I can. I have previous experience with working in the LGBT+ community; I was the LGBT rep for Aberdeen City Council. I was also part of the National Youth Council and for a brief time, on the Grampian Pride committee.”

Staff and PGR LGBT+ network logo Stonewall Silver Employer 2022