Ian Sutton

I came out as a gay man in my mid forties... a decision in large part made because I found the environment within the university and my own department so accepting, making me comfortable to be my self, after many years feeling the exact opposite. Coming out became the gateway to better mental health and a sense of relief with the removal of an unnecessary burden I had carried since I was a young boy. As a teenager and young adult there was no to few role models for me... but university role models helped me at my department and so, in me becoming one myself, I hopefully can be of help to others in a similar situation... and visibility is key to this, so I'm proud to put myself out there.