ESU Welcomes Isis King, First Transgender Contestant On America’s Next Top Model, October 6

Posted by: admin on September 25, 2014, No Comments

On October 6, East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania will host Isis King, the first transgender contestant on the TV Show America’s Next Top Model, as a guest speaker during “coming out week.” Her talk will be held in the Keystone Room at 7 p.m.

“The underlying message I have for ESU students is that they should always follow their dreams and not allow any circumstances to challenge who they are,” said King. “They should live their lives happily and overcome any forces that come their way.”

King became one of the most visible transgender people on television when she landed a spot on America’s Next Top Model Cycle 11. Prior to her role as a contestant on ANTM, King attended the Art Institute of Philadelphia and earned her degree in fashion design. After graduation, she was introduced to a new world through a documentary on MSNBC titled “Born in the Wrong Body: On the Edge.” Currently, King works as a freelance model, fashion designer, and motivational speaker.

King will speak to ESU students about the struggles she faced entering the fashion industry, how she coped with bullies, and how she overcame obstacles.

This event is open to the public and is free of charge. It is sponsored by ESU’s Office of Multicultural Affairs, LGBTQA Center, PRIDE Student Organization, and the Residence Hall Diversity Committee. For more information about the talk, please contact Matthew Simmons, resident director and coordinator of LGBTQA programs, at 570-422-3614, or msimmons@esu.edu.