/
Article

“Pride in Physics” Nurtures Curiosity, Fosters Inclusivity

MAR 13, 2025
Caden Zaccardi, SPS Chapter Treasurer
Kirsten Lina, Former SPS Chapter Secretary
Observer-W25-UCF.jpg

Pride in Physics attendees check out the night sky.

University of Central Florida SPS Chapter.

Last year we organized a new outreach event, Pride in Physics, for LGBTQ+ community members ages 13 to 24. It was hosted at Zebra Youth, a nonprofit temporary housing organization that serves this population.

We curated the evening’s agenda to maximize engagement and inspiration. It featured a series of lightning talks by SPS members, faculty presentations, socialization over dinner, and hands-on astronomical observations led by the director of the University of Central Florida’s Robinson Observatory, which was a highlight of the night. Participants observed celestial objects and gained hands-on experience with advanced astronomical equipment. We hope it enabled them to see themselves as capable of contributing to the field of astronomy.

Another highlight was a game of Kahoot! that reinforced the educational themes of the night and added a fun, competitive element, with prizes awarded to the winners. The connections we established with the local LGBTQ+ youth community were particularly meaningful, laying the groundwork for future collaborations with Zebra Youth.

Related Topics
This Content Appeared In
Observer Cover Winter 2025.png
More from the Observer
/
Article
What happens when you get a thousand undergraduate physics and astronomy students in one room? Find out at the 2025 Physics and Astronomy Congress! The event will feature inspiring plenaries, engaging workshops, and a life-changing community of peers. Here’s a sneak peek at the plenary speakers.
/
Article
Enthusiastic about physics and astronomy? Dream about meeting your science heroes? Love it when people get your science jokes? SPS designed the 2025 Physics and Astronomy Congress with YOU in mind! Still, we know many students can’t afford to pay their own way. Here are some of the best, most efficient ways chapters have raised money for travel and registration in the past.