I am constantly reminded when I visit colleges in the South how much work there is to be done. But I also forget how much change is happening across the nation -- even in the South.

Yesterday Campus Pride was at the University of Louisiana Lafayette. I delievered my program "What's Your Gay Point Average?" This was the first national program of its kind brought to campus -- over 200+ students attended -- not bad, huh? It was one of the many featured events during National Coming Out Month. Earlier in the day I spent time with several students and also did a workshop for the Resident Life Assistants. One of the things that I learned through the RA session is that 75% of the RAs had a family member who was LGBT and similarly 75% also had a "best friend" who was LGBT. Not surprisingly, all but a few had experienced or witnessed LGBT harassment in some form.

I share this because indeed LGBT youth are the future and change is happening. And even in the South, I find young adults who are impacted positively by "best friends" and family who are out as LGBT. This National Coming Out Day use your voice to come out to family and loved ones. Change is happening not because of politicians, athletes or celbrities coming out -- but rather our personal relationships with those we love.

Happy National Coming Out Day!

Congratulations to University of Louisiana Lafayette for a successful NCOM! Keep up your hard work! Plus, I enjoyed eating fried alligator and meeting all of you! Check out a photo from the swamp on campus -- GEAUX RAGIN CAJUNS!