Meet the Interns: Marisa Halper

(Development Intern - Based in Orlando)

1. Tell us a little about yourself...

My name is Marisa Halper. I am graduated magna cum laude from Florida Southern College with a BA in Religion with minors in Psychology and Women' Studies. I love playing sports, especially ultimate frisbee and laser tag. I am from central Massachusetts, but I have come to love Florida though this will be my first Florida summer; my mind may change once the thermometer reaches 100. A fun fact about me is that I collect bumper stickers. I have over 70 bumper stickers on 3 poster-boards.

2. Why are you involved with LGBT activism?

I am particularly interested in LGBT activism in a church setting. Seeing how some lgbt people are treated by their churches sparked my interest in fighting for their rights as human beings. I think that by educating Christian communities about LGBTQ issues, it will make the world a more loving and accepting place to be.

3. Why did you want to intern at Equality Florida?

I'm excited to intern with Equality Florida because Florida, as a swing state, is uniquely positioned to set an example for both liberal and conservative states. Equality Florida has already made its mark in the lgbtq movement throughout Florida and that is something I definitely want to be a part of. I am hoping that interning with EQFL will help provide me with the experience I am looking for in non profit work and introduce me to some amazing networks and resources.

4. What are your plans after you graduate?

I plan on securing a job in lgbtq ministry or in higher education as a resource for LGBTQ college students on their campuses.