Brandon Studler, the 2017-18 David Bohnett Victory Congressional Fellow, began his yearlong fellowship on Capitol Hill today. Brandon is the only openly trans person currently working on the Hill.
He will spend the year in the office of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, and he’ll bring a critical perspective to the caucus and Congress as anti-trans “religious freedom” bills are being promoted by some members. As a fellow, Studler will also take part in an intensive educational and leadership development program provided by Victory Institute to learn about the legislative and policy-making process.
“As the only trans person working on Capitol Hill, Brandon will be a much needed voice that can humanize trans lives for his colleagues and provide perspective on issues that affect our community,” said Ruben Gonzales, Vice President of Leadership Initiatives at Victory Institute. “Working directly with the LGBT Equality Caucus, Brandon will be mentored by LGBTQ and allied members of Congress and learn the skills necessary to be a successful Hill staffer.”
Last summer, Brandon served as a Victory Congressional Intern working with Sen. Patty Murray on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. He recently graduated from St. Lawrence University with a B.A. in Sociology and a minor in gender and sexuality studies. While at St. Lawrence, he worked on gender and sexuality issues including providing care for survivors of sexual assault.
The Bohnett Victory Congressional Fellowship program is now in its fourth year.
