First “Orange, Blue, and All of You” Gala Celebrating LGBTQ+ University of Florida

The University of Florida's Association of LGBTQ+ Alumni will host the inaugural “Orange, Blue, and All of You'' celebration: an evening of networking, socializing, and live entertainment, recognizing UF's vibrant LGBTQ+ history and cultures and raising funds for student scholarships at the LGBTQ+ Alumni Association Endowment. 

The gala will be held June 15, 2024 at the AC Hotel by Marriott in Downtown Orlando. Tickets are available now online and through uflgbtqalumni.com.  A special hotel room rate is also available online via the ticketing website.

“It’s never been more essential to declare: ‘We’re here, we’re queer, we’re Gators, and we’re not going anywhere.’  That’s why we’re so proud to present the first annual Orange, Blue, and All of You celebration,” said Gordon Van Owen, President of The University of Florida's Association of LGBTQ+ Alumni Board of Directors. “Building community and connecting our chosen family is a critical part of both the Gator and LGBTQ+ lived experience; and this gala will help power our association’s focus on scholarships, mentorship, and legacy building that benefits the future of LGBTQ+ students and alumni for decades to come.” 

Orange, Blue, and All of You will also showcase what is fabulous about LGBTQ+ UF by presenting the Gator Pride Legacy Awards to four queer Gators who have reflected UF in a positive and successful light, including contributions to and support of the community, and their professional and/or academic fields.  These honorees include:

1. Dr. Ronni Sanlo: Director Emeritus of the UCLA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Center and recognized as creator of the "Lavender Graduation" ceremony;

2. Dr. Richmond Wynn: VP of Community Engagement and Partnerships, at the University of North Florida, celebrated for LGBTQ+ inclusion in mental healthcare;

3. Jonathan Lovitz: Advocate and political strategist, recognized for leading the charge on over 20 pieces of legislation that promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion; currently serving as an appointee in the Biden-Harris Administration; and

4. Jacob Fazio: UF Class of 2024, recognized for his student leadership in the on-campus LGBTQ+ community for his roles in Student Government and the Florida Cicerones

For questions on Orange, Blue, and All of You, please email president@uflgbtqalumni.com.