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Marisol Peña, PhD

Dr. Marisol Peña is a globally recognized researcher and educator specializing in LGBT-Queer studies, sexual health, and inclusivity in education. With over 12 years of experience, she integrates rigorous research, policy advocacy, and community engagement to improve health outcomes and social acceptance for LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Specialization

  • LGBTQ+ Sexual Health
  • Queer Studies and Gender Diversity
  • Adolescent LGBTQ+ Mental Health
  • Inclusive Education and Curriculum Development
  • Public Policy for LGBTQ+ Rights

Education

  • 2005–2009: BA in Sociology, Universidad de Buenos Aires
  • 2009–2011: MA in Gender and Sexuality Studies, University of Toronto
  • 2012–2016: PhD in Queer Studies and Sexual Health, University of California, Berkeley

Professional Experience

  • 2016–2018: Research Fellow, LGBTQ+ Health Initiative, San Francisco
  • 2018–2021: Senior Lecturer in Queer Studies, University of Toronto
  • 2021–Present: Director, Global Queer Health Programs, International LGBTQ+ Alliance
  • Consultant for governments and NGOs on LGBTQ+ inclusive policy and education

Selected Research Projects and Case Studies

  • Project RainbowYouth (2017–2019): A longitudinal study on mental health and sexual health access among LGBTQ+ adolescents in North America. Results: 65% improvement in access to counseling services; policy recommendations adopted by 5 school districts. Quote: "Our findings demonstrate the transformative impact of inclusive curricula on LGBTQ+ youth wellbeing." – Marisol Peña
  • Queer Health Equity Initiative (2019–2021): Implementation of community-based health interventions for queer adults in Latin America. Results: 40% increase in HIV testing rates; launched 3 community-led peer-support programs. Quote: "True inclusion starts with listening to the community and adapting programs to real needs." – Marisol Peña
  • Digital Pride Curriculum (2022–Present): Development of an online educational platform for LGBTQ+ sexual health and rights. Results: Over 25,000 users in first year; integration into 12 universities’ diversity programs. Quote: "Digital tools allow queer youth worldwide to access knowledge safely and confidently." – Marisol Peña

Selected Publications

  • Peña, M. (2021). "Inclusive Sex Education for LGBTQ+ Adolescents: Best Practices." Journal of Queer Studies, 14(2), 112–137.
  • Peña, M., & Sanchez, R. (2019). "Mental Health Outcomes in Queer Youth Programs." International LGBTQ+ Health Journal, 7(4), 45–69.
  • Peña, M. (2018). "Community-Based Approaches to Queer Health Education." Global Health Review, 10(3), 77–101.

Professional Memberships

  • International LGBTQ+ Health Alliance
  • American Sociological Association – Sexualities Section
  • World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH)

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

  • Guest on NPR: “LGBTQ+ Health and Education in Schools”
  • TEDx Talk: “Building Inclusive Futures for Queer Youth” (2020)
  • Featured on “Queer Voices” podcast discussing sexual health and community engagement

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Peña’s work emphasizes evidence-based, community-centered approaches. Her hands-on experience in diverse cultural settings, coupled with rigorous research, allows her to design interventions that are both scientifically valid and socially impactful. She prioritizes amplifying queer voices, bridging gaps in education, and creating measurable improvements in health and wellbeing.

Articles by Marisol Peña, PhD

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