Aud is a queer LGBTIA2S+ civic leader, civil rights activist, media advocate, mentor, and DJ with a background spanning academia, broadcast media, and large-scale music festival production. They hold degrees in history and journalism and public communications, with an emphasis on multimedia and broadcast.
Over more than 15 years, Aud has collaborated with nationally recognized artists, journalists, and educational leaders. A lifelong Alaskan, they spend much of their time connecting with youth and community members to help identify resources that support and uplift future endeavors. Their passion for community building grew through early leadership roles in college media and national arts and music initiatives.
As a student leader, Aud worked alongside other LGBTQIA2S+ community members to produce the first drag shows at their university and helped organize community conversations and campus protests addressing the lack of protections for LGBTQIA2S+ students, staff, and faculty. Their advocacy for LGBTQIA2S+ rights in Alaska spans nearly two decades. Aud regularly donates their time as a DJ and provides logistical support for community efforts focused on human rights and mutual aid. They have served as a national arts panelist and received an award recognizing emerging leaders in journalism and civic engagement.
In their free time, Aud is often found supporting educational and community engagement programs for K–12 and college students across Alaska.
Favorite Quote: “We need, in every community, a group of angelic troublemakers.” Bayard Rustin
Favorite Place in the Northwest: The Gorge amphitheater, WA