Ryan A. Miller

Reviews existing research to understand what is known about disabled queer and trans college students and their experiences. Finds that these students often face overlapping challenges (like health issues and unwelcoming campus environments) but also actively build community and advocate for themselves in meaningful ways.

Examines how colleges handle reports of bias or hate incidents and how outside pressure—especially the threat of lawsuits—has changed those systems. Finds that universities have scaled back and weakened their responses, prioritizing avoiding legal trouble and protecting free speech over directly addressing bias.

Looks at how politicians and others talk about laws that restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across several states. Finds that both supporters and opponents use very similar, repeated talking points nationwide, with supporters portraying DEI as harmful or vague while colleges often respond weakly or stay neutral.

Explores how college instructors handle difficult or controversial topics in required diversity courses. Finds that most instructors try to encourage open discussion while managing student resistance, using a range of strategies (like setting ground rules and connecting topics to students’ lives), though some avoid conflict altogether—raising questions about how effective these courses really are.

Examines how LGBTQ+ students in STEM majors experience campus culture and how they cope with it. Finds that many encounter a dominant “bro” or hyper-masculine environment that sidelines or stereotypes them, but they actively develop strategies to navigate and persist despite these challenges.