Charles Rossi, MA, PhD

Charles Rossi is a leading expert in LGBT+ studies, with a particular focus on gay identity, mental health, and sexual health. With over 12 years of experience in research, advocacy, and education, he has dedicated his career to promoting understanding, inclusion, and well-being within the LGBT+ community. Rossi combines rigorous academic research with actionable interventions to advance sexual education and community health initiatives.

Specialization

LGBT+ Health and Wellbeing
Gay Sexual Health and Education
Mental Health in LGBT+ Populations
Social and Cultural Aspects of Sexual Identity
Policy and Advocacy for LGBT+ Rights

Education

2006–2010: BA in Sociology, University of California, Berkeley
2010–2012: MA in Gender and Sexuality Studies, New York University
2013–2017: PhD in LGBT+ Health and Policy, University of Toronto

Professional Experience

2012–2015: Research Coordinator, LGBT Health Initiative, NYC
2015–2019: Lecturer, Department of Gender & Sexuality Studies, University of Toronto
2019–Present: Director of Research and Advocacy, Rainbow Health Foundation

Research Cases & Key Project Results

Case Study: Implementation of Gay Youth Mental Health Programs in Toronto. Result: 27% decrease in self-reported depressive symptoms among participants after 12 months.
Project: National Survey on Gay Sexual Health Practices (2018–2020). Outcome: Identified gaps in preventive health services, leading to new outreach protocols adopted by 15 clinics across Canada.
Intervention Study: Peer-led HIV Awareness Campaign in LGBTQ+ communities. Result: 40% increase in voluntary HIV testing among gay men aged 18–35.
Longitudinal Study: Impact of Social Support on Gay Identity Development. Result: Demonstrated that structured support groups reduced internalized homophobia by 35% over 6 months.

Selected Quotes

"Understanding the lived experience of gay men is essential for creating effective health interventions." – Charles Rossi, 2021
"Inclusion is not just a policy—it's the foundation for mental and sexual health in LGBT+ communities." – Charles Rossi, TEDx Toronto, 2020
"Data-driven advocacy can transform community health outcomes when combined with empathy and cultural awareness." – Charles Rossi, Journal of LGBT Health, 2019

Selected Publications

Rossi, C., et al. (2022). "Gay Men's Mental Health in Urban Environments: A 5-Year Study." Journal of LGBT Health, 18(2), 134–152.
Rossi, C. (2020). "HIV Awareness and Prevention Strategies in Gay Communities." International Journal of Sexual Health, 32(4), 245–261.
Rossi, C., & Patel, R. (2018). "Peer Support and Identity Affirmation among Gay Youth." LGBTQ+ Studies Quarterly, 10(1), 22–45.

Professional Memberships

LGBT Health Professionals Network (LGBTHPN)
International Society for Sexual Health (ISSH)
American Psychological Association (APA) – Division 44: Society for LGBT Issues

Participation in International Projects

Advisor, UNAIDS Global Gay Men Health Initiative (2019–2022)
Lead Researcher, European Rainbow Mental Health Survey (2020–2021)
Consultant, WHO LGBT+ Inclusive Sexual Health Programs (2021–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Creator of "Healthy Gay Relationships" curriculum for high school and university students
Developer of online workshops for LGBT+ mental health awareness
Training programs for healthcare providers on culturally competent care for gay clients

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest speaker on CBC Radio: "Promoting Gay Mental Health and Wellness"
TEDx Talk: "Empowering Gay Youth Through Education" (2020)
Host of the "Rainbow Health Podcast," discussing LGBT+ sexual health research

Unique Values and Experience

Charles Rossi brings together rigorous research, practical interventions, and a deeply empathetic approach to LGBT+ education. His work uniquely combines data-driven advocacy with lived-experience insights, delivering measurable improvements in mental, sexual, and social health outcomes for gay individuals worldwide.