2025 Participant Biographies

Dr. Michele Angello works with gender variant youth and adults. She offers individual, group and family therapy, as well as corporate education and training on a variety of issues of sexuality and has presented internationally on her work with trans-youth and working with children of transitioning parents. She facilitates several monthly support groups for transgender adults, youth and parents. Dr. Angello is often called on to speak as an expert on transgender issues to universities, corporations and the media. She has appeared on Larry King Live, the Tyra Banks Show, and various documentaries. She base her practice in Paoli, PA.




Aaron Ayala is a transgender voice-specialized Speech-Language Pathologist and Singing Voice Specialist in the Department of Otolaryngology (ENT) at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA. He holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is licensed to practice in Pennsylvania. Aaron earned his Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Georgia State University in 2017 and his Master of Vocal Pedagogy from Westminster Choir College of Rider University in 2022. Aaron's professional services include videostroboscopy (direct visualization of the vocal folds), voice evaluation, and voice therapy. While he works with a wide range of vocal issues and symptoms, he specializes in working with transgender and gender diverse patients for gender-affirming voice care, as well as working with singers and the injured voice. Aaron is a trained singer who has performed in professional and community musical theatre for over 20 years and continues to perform locally. He is an active member of the Voice and Upper Airway Disorders Special Interest Group of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and frequently presents on topics related to the voice and voice disorders.




Since completing her cosmetology license, Genna Betros has been a makeup artist in New Jersey for over seven years. She caters to a diverse range of incredible and beautiful clients. She is currently the head makeup artist at Glamour Boutique in Fairfield NJ and has had the pleasure of working with hundreds of clients. Sharing a special bond with each unique client allows her to tailor the make overs specific to each client's personalities and desires. She feels pure joy every time she sees her client's reaction of their inner beauty shining through and looks forward to turning many more chairs around to show clients their gorgeous selves.




Susan is a Licensed Social Worker and Clinical Acupuncturist with a background in teaching communication skills in a therapy setting and in the Information Technology industry while managing large projects and technical teams. She is widowed, and was married to Judith (Jude) Bienvenu, who transitioned in 2009. Susan and Jude gave a presentation that describes communication methods for partners progressing through transition for several years at Keystone. Susan is willing to be contacted for discussions with SOs outside of the workshop setting and can meet in the SO Sanctuary during the conference or via email individually, and will exchange contact information with interested parties at the workshop.




Rain Black, M.P.H., CPH (Fae/He) is a trans autistic watercolor artist and forager who earned faers bachelor’s degrees in Biology, Public Health and Art from Cedar Crest College. He holds a Master of Public Health degree in epidemiology from the University of South Florida and is Certified in Public Health. He is a community educator with 7 years of experience focusing on topics around domestic and intimate partner abuse, queer and transgender justice, foraged art making, life skills, and public health. Fae also teaches about native plants, forest conservation, and foraging on social media and in person. He is a founding organizer of Queer & Trans Lehigh Valley.




A two-spirited individual who presents as both genders. I have attended Keystone the past three years.




Karla utilizes a strength-based approach. Karla recognizes that respect, empathy, and authenticity are core conditions to build therapeutic relationships. Karla is enthusiastic, empathetic, and non-judgmental by nature. She focuses on providing a welcoming and safe environment for those who need it most. Each individual Karla meets as a mental health professional matter to her. Her main goal is to assist individuals of all ages in developing functional coping skills that will assist them to enjoy their lives to their fullest potential. Karla focuses on helping his clients to build insight into how their body shows up, communicates with us and can be an agent to promote growth and healing. Karla collaborates with clients from all intersections of life with sensitivity and cultural awareness. Karla is proud of her family and community. She enjoys reading and writing poetry. Karla enjoys cooking for family and friends. Karla is a soccer fan. Karla enjoys listening to classical and modern music. Karla Specializes In: Individual and Family Therapy Intersectionality Culturally Sensitive Therapy Exploration of gender identity, gender dysphoria, and social transition LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy Life and Career Transitions Self-Empowerment and Self-Compassion School Stressors and Life Stressors Social Skills and Healthy Boundaries




Lila Charap (she/they) is a Philly-area professional in education attending Keystone for her fourth year in a row. She's married, the parent of three humans and two non-humans, and an active leader within her Jewish faith community.




Stephen Chukumba (he/him) is an activist, advocate, inspirational speaker and one of the founders of The Dads Foundation. As a single father of four, including one transgender child, Stephen works tirelessly to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues. He’s a member of several organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, Garden State Equality, and PFLAG, and frequently speaks on topics like race, gender, and intersectionality. Stephen co-hosts the podcast The Parent Advocate with Lizette Trujillo, discussing his journey as a father of a transgender child. Stephen also worked with youth organizers to produce Trans Prom, the first-ever political action prom for trans youth and adults. He is featured in the Emmy-winning Netflix documentary The Dads, which premiered at SXSW.




Natalie Crouse (she/her) is an AAHIVM certified HIV Clinical Pharmacist for the Caring Together Program, a partnership between WellSpan Health and Family First Health. She began her Clinical Pharmacy career in primary care with Kaiser Permanente in the MD/DC region, later transitioning to WellSpan Health. Throughout her academic and professional career, HIV management and Infectious Diseases have been a passion; resulting in several research and presentation opportunities.

Outside of pharmacy, Natalie enjoys time in nature, practicing yoga, crafting and baking (desserts are her specialty!). It has been a joy sharing these activities with friends and family.




Diane, with her 25 years of experience working with both men and women, is a dedicated commercial photographer and filmmaker. Her clientele includes notable names such as Coca-Cola, Chick-fil-A, the PGA, various banks, law firms, as well as models and actors. She has crafted, helmed, and refined commercials for the national audience. However, her most significant achievement is her transition to Diane, marking five years of living authentically and embracing her true self. To book a photography session click https://calendly.com/dianecrowproductions/keystone-portrait-session-with-diane-crow




Simran “Simmi” Dutta, MPH (they/them) is the Linkage Navigator for Project TEA at North Jersey Community Research Initiative (NJCRI). Project TEA (Trans Empowerment in Action) is an all-trans and nonbinary team at NJCRI centered around the empowerment of the trans and nonbinary community. In addition to this role, Simmi is a board member of the Trans Equity Coalition, an organization dedicated to uplifting trans and nonbinary communities across the state of New Jersey.




Kristin is passionate about the safety and security of the LGBTQIA+ community. She uses her 30+ experience as a federal law enforcement officer and Army veteran to help her achieve those goals. Our fundamental rights to life, liberty, and to seek out happiness and joy exist only as far as we are willing to defend them. She served over 20 years with U.S. Marshals rising to be a Chief Inspector. She was an expert in behavioral and protective investigations. As an Army officer she was both in the infantry and civil affairs. Kristin fought in both Operation Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. After her government service, Kristin took her skills and passion for training to the private sector. She worked as the Director of Training for a small defense contractor on the outskirts of Boston. She has trained major government law enforcement agencies, entertainment venues, and professional sports arenas to improve their security skill sets. She now works as a security trainer and consultant for Safe Conduct, LLC. Kristin identifies as a trans woman. She prefers the use of she/her pronouns but refuses to give anyone power over her with gender words. Kristin has previously presented at the Keystone Conference and the Atlanta Comfort Conference. Non Gradum Retro




Ms. Evans is a Professional Engineer with over 35 years of Experience. She is the President of Evans Engineering Inc a Civil and Structural Engineering firm based out of Harrisburg Pa, A company she started in 1989. She is also a Senior Partner in Strata Development, a Construction Management Company, as well as a partner in the firm Modern Architectural Design and the Managing Member in Blue Mountain Properties LLC. All Companies started by Ms. Evans. In Her professional career Ms. Evans has worked with companies such as Amazon, Pepsi, Hershey, Proctor and Gamble, Whirlpool, and Prologis Corp. In preforming her work she interacts with corporate executives, lawyers, contractors and various government agencies. In April 2018 Ms. Evans publicly transitioned and began working full time as her authentic self. Throughout her transition she has found acceptance from her business partners, clients, piers and co-workers.




No bio provided.




Mother Grace is a priest in the Catholic Apostolic Church in North America (CACINA) and is pastor of CACINA's Saint Wilgefortis TRANSmission, the online spiritual home for the transgender community. CACINA is an open, affirming, and inclusive independent Catholic church; Mother Grace is its only transgender priest. A graduate of the seminary at Liberty University and a former Southern Baptist minister, Mother Grace had what she calls her own personal "Damascus Road Moment" a few years ago which gave rise to her tandem transitions, one from Southern Baptist to Catholic and the other from Gary to Grace. Mother Grace recently retired as a chaplain (1LT) for the 10th Area Command of the New York Guard, which supplements and augments the New York Army National Guard. The parent of five grown children, Mother Grace spends most summer Saturdays on the competitive drum corps circuit with the Hawthorne Caballeros.




Bonnie's passion for hair removal originated from serious health challenges during her adolescence, leading to excessive hair growth, which caused immense damage to her sense of self. During her college years, a fortuitous encounter with a compassionate electrologist profoundly transformed, not only her life, but the vision she would have for her future. It was through this experience that she discovered her true calling…to help others in the same way she had been supported.

Following her graduation from college, Bonnie enrolled in an electrolysis program in 1989, where she would soon meet Jill. Their partnership quickly evolved into a professional collaboration founded on a shared empathy they innately felt for others, and a commitment to excellence. Together, they have fostered an environment where clients feel safe, comfortable, and genuinely cared for.

In 2016, after attending the first Keystone Conference, Jill & Bonnie’s Electrolysis and Laser expanded its vision, excited to reach out to, and formally welcome the LGBTQ community into their supportive circle. Over the past few decades, the practice has served countless clients, from all walks of life, creating a legacy of transformative experiences and feelings of deep gratitude.




Bry is a true master of all things beauty. From hair and makeup to nails, hair extensions, and beyond—if you can name it, she can do it! With a natural talent for creativity and a deep passion for her craft, Bry is skilled in a wide range of hair techniques and styling methods. She takes pride in bringing her clients' visions to life, ensuring they leave her chair feeling both beautiful and confident.

For Bry, beauty is more than just appearance—it’s about how you feel. That’s why she is constantly honing her skills, learning new techniques, and staying up to date with the latest trends in hair, makeup, and beauty. Her dedication to growth and innovation ensures that every client receives top-tier service tailored to their unique needs.

For your convenience, Bry will be at the Hilton providing makeup, hair and wig styling, and nail and pedi services! Bry is excited to welcome you to Rise Hair Studio, where she offers a variety of services, including:

• All hair services (including wigs & styling)
• Professional makeup application
• Manicures & pedicures
• Facial & full-body waxing
• Lash extensions
• …and so much more.

Let Bry help you look and feel your absolute best!




Lisa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the parent of a transgender child. Lisa has been a therapist in private practice since 2021, specializing in the provision of trauma and trans services. Lisa’s work with the trans population began during her employment in a Residential Treatment Program in 2014. Her experience continued to develop with employment in the Integrated Behavioral Health and Private Practice Settings. She is published with Drs. Alex Redcay and Paul Felker in the Journal of Residential Treatment of Children and Youth on the topic of treatment of transgender and gender expansive youth in the residential setting. Lisa received her undergraduate degree in Child Development and Family Relations from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She received her Master’s in Social Work from Millersville University. Lisa has been providing services in the clinical setting for 14 years.




Isaac Gallinella is the Head Instructor of RVA Karate Dojo. He is a passionate and dedicated Martial Arts Instructor with over a decade of experience inspiring and mentoring students of all ages and skill levels. A 2nd-degree black belt in Traditional Okinawan Shidokan Shorin Ryu Karate, with a proven ability to build confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills in students while fostering an inclusive, supportive dojo environment. Known for developing tailored training programs, cultivating respect and teamwork, and ensuring safety and progress for every practitioner. His journey as a Karate Instructor reflects a blend of technical mastery, compassionate mentorship, and a dedication to enriching lives through martial arts.




Heart (he/ él) is a Social Worker in Training at Columbia University in New York, set to graduate in May 2025. He is a research assistant on trans masc access to gender affirming care and sexual health services such as PrEP. Heart is an organizer and co-founded monthly Trans Men and Trans Masc social meet ups in Asheville, North Carolina in 2022 which continue to meet today. He is currently a Ridgewood, NY resident. He finds himself in the art galleries of Chelsea and the Blue Ridge mountains of Appalachia. Prior to graduate school, Heart created a community and brand, Trans Yoga Teacher. He enjoys teaching yoga as a liberatory practice. Showing up for his practice is much like his queerness, a refusal to comply with society’s expectations of us and a choice to choose one’s self and self-love as an everyday gift. Heart studied yoga under the tutelage of Aqeel Yaseen in DC and Sri Dharma Mittra, primarily, although he is indebted to many teachers' care and generosity. He received his 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Certificate in 2017 from Dharma Yoga in New York and completed a 500-Hour Training in 2019. Yoga gave him tools to cope with getting sober and and supported him through his coming out process and trans and queer. He is also in recovery from disordered eating and teaches from a space that is anti-diet and weight neutral. Heart originally hails from the DMV but considers himself a student of the world. He is multilingual and loves learning about other ways of living. He's spent time living in Madagascar and the Dominican Republic and hopes to return to living abroad again, perhaps in Berlin, where his family's Pennsylvania Dutch roots lie. Talk to him about travel and where you've spent time outside the US and his ear's all yours. Fun fact; he started elementary school in Dauphin, just outside of Harrisburg and hasn't been back since he started transition, so it will be great to be back!




Karla is a transgender woman who came out to her spouse in 2009. She began her transition in 2017 while working for South Londonderry Township as head of maintenance and a licensed Wastewater Operator. Retiring this year after 25 years on the job. After having spent her career behind the scenes, she continues in community service. She is a member of TransCentralPA, My Feminine Heart and a new member of the Vanity Club. She serves as the Registrar for the Keystone Conference and Secretary/Treasurer for TransCentralPA. She enjoys traveling and astronomy.




Corinne Goodwin (She/They) is a Spouse, Father, Woman, Advocate, Friend, and Business Owner. As Executive Director and founder of Eastern PA Trans Equity Project she focuses many of her volunteer efforts on empowering transgender and gender non-conforming people. Corinne also volunteers with the Keystone Equality, the United Way, the ACLU, the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, and other organizations to advance their causes and improve their processes.




Robin Gow (it/fae/he & él y elle) is a trans poet and educator. It grew up in rural Pennsylvania and lives with his queer family on unceded Lenape land also called Allentown Pennsylvania. Awarded the Jerry Cain and Scott James Creative Writing Fellow, Gow earned faer MFA in Creative Writing from Adelphi University where fae also taught as a professor of English. Over the last five years, Robin has trained over 3,000 people on LGBTQIA2+ Inclusion and Equity and Neurodiversity/Disability Justice topics. He's given presentations at national conferences including the Philly Trans Wellness Conference and Youth Rise Up Conference and to organizations like Arts Quest, Bethlehem School District, Rutgers University, and Allentown City Hall. He serves on the Board of Eastern PA Trans Equity Project and Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living and is a founding organizer of Queer & Trans Lehigh Valley. Robin is the author of critically acclaimed poetry books and LGBTQ+ young-adult and middle-grade novels, earning




Casey Grim is a professional esthetician and owner of The Rise Beauty Co. I am cisgender and love to offer my skincare and makeup services and expertise to the transgender community. Diversity and inclusion are core components of the culture at RISE. Casey does makeover transformations for Cassandra Storm in York, PA and is a Founding Club Member Expert of My Feminine Heart and TransTuesdays from day one - Cass even filmed her first episodes in Casey's salon! Casey is also an 11-year Air Force Veteran having served one tour in Iraq as a staff weather officer to the 101st Airborne Division and 4th Infantry Division. I look forward to connecting with you at Keystone! My contact information for setting up a makeup appointment is 717-850-3430. Please send a text message with your name and requested appointment time.




For more than 15 years, increasing access to gender affirmation surgery has been a driving force of Dr. Sven Gunther’s education and training. For Dr. Gunther, it is more than a profession but a calling: to provide compassionate and comprehensive care throughout patients’ journeys to find themselves. Dr. Gunther understands that this journey touches nearly every aspect of a person’s life including self-identity, social and romantic interactions. Dr. Gunther brings his unique training and artistic eye to the operating room with a focus not only on function but also aesthetics.

Dr. Gunther graduated valedictorian, with an associate degree in chemistry from San Diego Mesa College. He graduated summa cum laude from University of California San Diego with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and cell biology. Dr. Gunther attended medical school at the University California Davis School of Medicine as a Regents’ Scholar, one of a select group of students with demonstrated academic excellence, leadership and exceptional promise. He also received a master’s degree in clinical research during which he obtained a research training grant for his research on wound healing.

He went on to graduate at the top of his medical school class and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha national medical society, a reflection of the principles of lasting commitment to professionalism, leadership, scholarship, research, and community service. One of Dr Gunther’s greatest personal achievements during medical school was founding and co-directing a free hormone clinic for transgender and gender non-conforming patients.

Dr Gunther attended Case Western Reserve University/University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center for his plastic surgery residency, Here, he trained with multiple world-renowned surgeons in the study of gender affirming top surgery, facial aesthetics, rhinoplasty and facial feminization. Dr. Gunther was fortunate to spend his last year of training at Oregon Health & Science University, focusing on all aspects for gender affirming surgery including phalloplasty, vaginoplasty, chest masculinizing surgery, breast augmentation and facial feminization. Dr Gunther has been an active member in WPATH since 2018.

When not in the operating room, Dr. Gunther enjoys tending to his orchid and plant collection and trying to get various birds to eat from his hand. He is an avid runner, hiker, and a culinary experimenter best known for his pasta making skills.




Amy Harlacher, LPC, is a Specialist Clinical Counselor in the pediatric-adolescent Gender Health Clinic at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, serving the needs of transgender and gender-diverse children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. She completed her undergraduate degree in Religion-Philosophy and Humanities from Roberts Wesleyan College and earned a Master’s degree in Counseling from Shippensburg University. She received post-graduate training in Couples and Family Counseling and completed the Level 3 Training and Practicum in Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Ms. Harlacher worked in community mental health and independent practice prior to her role at Penn State Hershey. She is an active member of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) and is currently pursuing certification.




Detroit-born Savannah Hauk is an author, podcaster, advocate and TEDx Speaker, living a confident, visible and successful male-to-female crossdressing life. Through a lifetime of experience and research, Savannah has come to understand the many reasons men crossdress, the struggles and fears they face, and the weight of the crossdressing labels they accept but may not truly understand. Her eLit award-winning "Living with Crossdressing" book series is written to demystify and destigmatize the dual gender experience for both crossdressing men and their loved ones. Savannah also co-hosts the weekly The Fox and the Phoenix Podcast, reinforcing the same positive and inclusive message of gender identity and expression. She also leads conference workshops and has given two TEDx talks. When Savannah isn’t working or advocating, she loves the MCU, rebuilding LEGO sets from bulk bricks, and spending time with her girlfriend and two fur babies.




Imani Hayes is the Program Manager for Project TEA (Trans Empowerment in Action), the first all trans/non-binary staffed grant in the state of NJ at NJCRI. A graduate of Rutgers University with a B.A. in Journalism, she has 5 years of experience helping transgender individuals, living with & without HIV, with their medical care and achieve their gender affirming goals. Imani's passionate about empowering her clients to unlock their potential and achieve meaningful results in both their personal and professional lives. Her passion enables her to assist my clients in gaining clarity, setting realistic goals, and developing actionable plans to overcome obstacles and achieve success.




Owner of Dominion Wellness Coaching. As a home health physical therapist for over 20 years, I subscribed to the weight-centric approach to health and believed that achieving and maintaining a “healthy” weight was the best thing we could do to ensure a long and healthy life. However, as a chronic dieter, I was no more successful at losing weight than my patients or clients were and my own relationship with food and body became very disordered and dysfunctional. I became a certified Transformational Health and Life Coach through the Health Coach Institute in September 2020 in the height of the pandemic. I went on to become a certified intuitive eating counselor under the guidance of registered dieticians Elyse Resch and Evelyn Tribole. Along the journey, I experienced profound healing and change for myself, especially in my relationship with food and my body. Now, my passion is helping others heal from disordered eating and embrace authentic health through a compassionate approach to wellbeing. As an intuitive eating counselor, I help empower my clients as the experts of their own body. Together, we create a powerful partnership to decouple self worth from body size or shape, let go of guilt and shame around food and body, and foster a greater connection with the body. Through the process of intuitive eating, my clients achieve increased energy, improved physical and mental health, greater self-esteem and positive self-regard.




Cheryl Hogle has been a is the owner and stylist of the salon U-GotThe-Look and has been making women beautify for 40 years now. Her jewelry business is an added bonus to making women feel like they have the whole package. Adding Swarovski sparkle to women not only gives them the confidence they need to shine bright, but turns heads and gets people to notice them.

She has two wonderful men in her life: my husband of twenty-four years whom I love traveling the world with, and my handsome son who is a very talented musician and will be heading back to college in the fall to get his masters.




It has taken me over 50 years to see and believe that I too, have a beautiful and amazing story to share. I will never forget the first time I looked in the mirror, and the first time I saw a photo of myself; and loved who was looking back at me. Throughout my life I have struggled with not knowing who I really am or how I fit into the world. So, it was not unsurprising that tears of joy and happiness filled my eyes and streamed down my face, as I fell in love with me. Many people at times struggle with who they are or who they want to be. We are our own harshest critics, identifying every slight imperfection being hyper critical of ourselves. We fail to celebrate the beautiful and amazing things that make us the person that we are. I have always admired people who have the courage, confidence and self-love and are able to live unapologetically as who they are. Professionally, day to day, as a portrait photographer, I want to help people find the courage, confidence, and self-love by helping them share their beautiful and amazing story in portraits that celebrate who they are. I was diagnosed with gender dysphoria in Dec. of 2021. The hardest part has been having to live a dual life of secrecy and navigating learning to love all of ,myself as I have been torn and afraid of the future. I have been lovingly married for almost 20 years and together we are trying to navigate the challenges my gender dysphoria and life have presented. I am also the proud father of two daughters, a son in law and grandson, who do not know about my beautiful Steph side. Not unlike most trans peoples, I navigates not only through her dual genders, but also dual cultures, one which is very accepting and supporting, and one in which carries great risk for me and my loved ones should I be inappropriately outed. I am an award winning and internationally published professional photographer, who has a small portrait studio near Washington DC. I am active in teaching and leadership roles in the Virginia Professional Photographers Association and Professional Photographers of America (PPA). and have achieved my Master of Photography, and my Certified Profession Photographer accrediting through PPA. Prior to starting my photography business, I spent about 25 years in leadership roles in supply chain management and banking and was a farmer. I have a Bachelor of Science in Business, as well as a Master’s in Business Administration and several Certificates in Photography. I love to travel, photograph steam trains, and ride my bicycle, and admit I am a Manchester United fan. As I have continued to learn and love more of myself, I am looking to share my story of survival, resilience, and love to provide hope and encouragement to others. You are not alone, you are amazing and you are loved! (please note - I do live dual gendered and have not listed my male professional online presence here)




Jamie, a New Jersey crossdresser who's been dressing for 30yrs+. She enjoys the art of makeup and fashion and loves helping others in the community with tips on how to be the best you can be whether it be makeup or presenting in public. She is a business owner for the past 25 yrs and a friend and supporter of glamour boutique in NJ. Please stop by and say hello--you never have enough friends.




Amy Keisling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. She earned a Bachelor's Degree from Dickinson College and received a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. A certified provider member of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), the primary focus of her work has been in the provision of gender-affirming care to transgender and gender-diverse people. In 2019, Ms. Keisling left the world of private clinical practice to become the Coordinator for the pediatric and adolescent Gender Health Clinic at Penn State Health, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, serving the needs of transgender and gender-diverse children, adolescents, young adults, and their families.




Alex Kline identifies as a gender fluid person who crossdresses. She's chatty, friendly, and a little bit goofy but also compassionate, patient, and she love helping others. Alex is local to the Harrisburg area and is active in the community. Since attending her first Keystone, she knew she could be doing more. Alex is a part of the Helping Hand Program and she looks forward to assisting you in experiencing everything the Keystone Conference has to offer.




With more than a decade of experience providing transparent, holistic advice, Natalie Kratzer (she/her) focuses on educating and empowering clients as they make important financial decisions that impact them now and in the years to come. This leads to long-lasting relationships amongst our clients and their families.

Natalie leads the Roots Financial Group at Thrivent, a dynamic team of financial professionals provide financial planning services for those seeking guidance on their journey to financial clarity with a specialization in assisting nurse anesthetists, student nurse anesthetists, and nurses on the path to becoming nurse anesthetists.

Natalie is a Chartered Financial Consultant and Chartered Leadership Fellow (CLF), designations granted by the American College, Bryn Mawr, PA. She holds the Certification for Long-Term Care CLTC). She has also achieved Million Dollar Round Table status, an industry honor based on sales excellence, outstanding client service, ethical conduct and professional knowledge. She is a member of the National Association of Fraternal Insurance Counselors (NAFIC), and has earned the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) Quality Award for demonstrating a commitment to excellence through performance, professional education, and industry service. Locally, Natalie volunteers as a Board member for the Lower Dauphin Communities That Care, the Hummelstown Business Professionals Association, and with the Saturday groups serving the differently sheltered in Harrisburg, PA.

Natalie is an active member of Thrivent’s Pride Business Resource Network and is focused on building practice that is open and affirming.




Abbe is a MBSR trained, Certified Life Coach, who coaches cis and straight partners of transgender, gender diverse and LGBTQ+ folx. Abbe offers a range of coaching services including one-on-one coaching, group coaching, workshops and online support groups. She is a former attorney, legal recruitment executive, CEO and community leader. She is a wife and mother who lives in New York.




No bio provided.




Jason is the founding Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Youth Congress. He has been a leader in the LGBTQ youth movement for nearly a decade as the first person to work directly and specifically with LGBTQ youth on the statewide level in Pennsylvania. Jason is an advocate for LGBTQ rights at the local, state, and national levels. A fifth-generation Pennsylvanian, Jason is from Lower Merion Township and a graduate of both the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Pittsburgh School of Law.




Ms. Jennifer Lehman is a transgender woman who after a lifetime of hiding her true self executed a successful gender transition in 2013. She has been married for 40 years to her college sweetheart, Karen, who is now the Significant Other Program Director of TransCentralPA. Jen and Karen have a daughter, son-in-law, son, daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters. Jen is a business development manager, bowls competitively in two leagues and is very active in her local Lutheran ELCA church. Jen has presented workshops on gender transition at the 2014-2023 Keystone Conferences, the 2014 and 2018 Philly Transgender Health / Wellness Conference, the Philadelphia EEOC, and several local churches and high schools.




Karen is the Significant Other Program Director of TransCentralPA. She is married to Jennifer (Jen) who transitioned in 2013. Karen and Jen met in college and had been married for 24 years when Jen confided in Karen that she was transgender. It took Karen five years to accept that Jen needed to transition and that she wanted to try to make their marriage last. They renewed their vows as Karen and Jen for their 30th anniversary and have now been married for 40 years. They have a daughter, son-in-law, son, daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters. Karen is recently retired from teaching Preschool and is a very active member at her Lutheran ELCA church. Karen is available throughout the conference, in group sessions and individual meetings as needed. She can be reached after the conference via the significant other email through the TransCentralPA website.




Miranda Lewis (she/her) is passionate about guiding individuals through transforming their lives, achieving their dreams, and unlocking their true potential. With a strong background in military leadership and education, I combine decades of experience with certified coaching methodologies to empower individuals to take charge of their lives and realize their biggest dreams and goals. Miranda is a 30-year veteran of the US Marine Corps, a certified DreamBuilder coach and Life Mastery consultant, and Crucial Conversations Facilitator/Instructor. She has spoken to and coached national professional organizations and federal agencies as well as individual clients.




Our presenter is stepping out of the closet and into the spotlight, ready to share the story behind her vibrant journey of building and maintaining a crossdresser's wardrobe. For years, she stood before the public as a man—confident and accomplished as a speaker and trainer. But behind the scenes, a secret bloomed in the shadows of her closet, nestled among silks and sequins. A secret she is now ready to embrace openly: She is Sabrina Rose Love, a crossdresser finally stepping into the light.

Her journey began quietly, with a whisper of femininity tucked away in forgotten corners. Four years ago, that whisper roared into a loud voice when a chance invitation to a "girls' night" with fellow crossdressers became a pivotal moment. The first time stepping out publicly dressed as a woman, Sabrina found herself surrounded by a supportive, safe space. Adorned in her hidden finery, it felt like coming home to a reflection she had never known existed.

The road hasn't been without its challenges—balancing societal norms, acceptance, and the delicate dance between two identities. But through it all, Sabrina has discovered not just a wardrobe full of confidence, but a supportive sisterhood that has empowered her every step of the way. Today, she’s ready to share the lessons she’s learned, offering insights on curating a wardrobe that feels authentic, building the courage to express oneself fully, and maintaining the delicate balance of a crossdresser’s life.




As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Therapist in private practice in Hartford, CT, treating gender-nonconforming and GLBT children, youth, and adults, Carole MacKenzie is a member of PFLAG Hartford, WPATH, and a TransWeek (formerly Fantasia Fair, Provincetown) keynote speaker as well as co-facilitator of TransWeek's SO/Couple groups and on-going virtual monthly meetings of cis gender SOs from all over the country. In addition, she facilitates an ongoing monthly group of transgender partners of cis women from First Event, Boston.

MacKenzie attended the University of California at Berkeley, the University of Vienna, Austria, and Smith College School for Social Work. An adjunct professor in psychology at the University of Hartford for 22 years, where she taught Human Sexual Behavior, she has taught at Antioch New England Graduate School, NH, St. Joseph University, West Hartford, CT, and Quinnipiac University, CT.

MacKenzie evaluates and treats transgender persons collaborating with endocrinologists and surgeons. She has presented on transgender issues at many conferences over the past twenty years. She lives, works, and gardens in Hartford, CT with her spouse, Alan, and dogs, Virginia Woof, a Cavalier King Charles spaniel (RIP) and Alice Waters, an English springer spaniel and picky eater. *Update: A Cavalier King Charles puppy arrived late last year. Her name is Rosa Barks.




Meg Maginn, LCSW, is a psychotherapist with over three decades of experience specializing in couples counseling, ,eating disorders trauma, and family therapy , LGBTQIA+ issues. She is the founder of Eating Disorder Associates and Lifeworks NY. As the former spouse of a transgender woman, Meg integrates her professional expertise with personal insights to explore the complexities of relationships during gender transitions




Dr. Wayne M. Maines is the proud father of identical twins, Jonas Maines and Nicole Maines. Wayne and his wife Kelly worked extremely hard to raise their children in an environment that was not and is still not ready for the new generation of transgender and gender expansive children.

While working in an Air Force Hospital the doctors convinced Wayne to attend college. He was the first in his family to do so. Little did he know that many more firsts were in his future. Wayne attended Cornell University, and then received his Doctoral Degree from West Virginia University.

Wayne has been an industry and higher education leader for the past thirty years. He has had the pleasure to lead and mentor staff and students at an International chemical company, the University of Maine System, Austin Community College, and now Stanford University. Being successful in these positions requires technical knowledge, confidence, excellent communication skills, and the ability to implement change in environments that often had little appetite for change.

Wayne was successful in creating change at each job. Why was it so hard for him to do the same at home, in his town, and at local, state and national level? He was not ready when organized hate groups came to his small town. They arrived without notice, with attorneys, reporters, and unprecedented fear, and anger. Their attacks forced him to address his own fears, and then he and his family fought back, sometimes placing Jonas and Nicole in harm’s way. His family’s story is featured in Becoming Nicole: The Transformation of an American Family. The Washington Post describes it as “the inspiring true story of a transgender girl, her identical twin brother, and an ordinary American family’s extraordinary journey to understand, nurture, and celebrate the uniqueness in us all.”

Wayne says that everyone has a story to tell that can help promote change. We need to reach their hearts to open up their minds to learn more about why we all fear the unknown. For the past fifteen years his focus has been how to help others embrace the diversity that exists in the world. He has conducted training for the FBI, the Department of Justice, Harvard Medical School, the Austin Texas Police Academy, and many others. His latest change project includes working with a group of amazing fathers, and filmmakers.

Wayne had a dream to take fathers of transgender children fishing. It was a chance to get away, to meet other dads who were struggling to keep their children safe, happy, and supported at home and at school. So Wayne and other supportive fathers started an organization called The Dads Foundation. And when award winning director/producer Luchina Fisher heard about this dream, she wanted in. The end result is a Daytime Emmy award winning eleven-minute film of dads fishing for trout in Oklahoma. Check out the short film 'The Dads' on Netflix.




Jennifer Marie is a proud transgender woman, bestselling author, and the founder of Jennspire. She is dedicated to fostering understanding, acceptance, and empowerment for individuals, families, and organizations navigating the complexities of gender identity. With her unique approach, Jennifer simplifies the transgender experience, helping individuals find their Gender Equilibrium™—the place on the gender spectrum where they achieve personal, emotional, and mental balance. Through her coaching and the supportive Jennspire Sisterhood, Jennifer empowers others to embrace authenticity and live their happiest, most authentic lives.




Martha Marvel is a trans person who spent over 40 years in the closet while working for a major christian denomination. When she retired in 2017, she came out of the closet and began to live her faith - but not talk a lot about it. She is the founder and current President of a community of care and service that is known as the (Green) Bay Area Council on Gender Diversity (BACGD). Today BACGD is a growing all volunteer non-profit organization with an email list of over 500 trans persons, parents, family members and community allies. The organization offers a number of monthly and special programs and services for adults and youth primarily in NE Wisconsin. BACGD also has a group called the Trans Artists Collaborative (TAC). This talented group created "The Transperience" a multi-media digital and tactile immersive art experience that has been staged at various colleges and a museum in NE Wisconsin. Martha has two master's degrees - one in Social Work and another in Religious Studies. She is married, with four mostly grown children and eleven grandkids.




No bio provided.




Brynn is a passionate and dedicated hairstylist who began both her gender transition and her hair career over a decade ago. Since 2014, she has not only embraced her true identity but also built a fulfilling career in the beauty industry. With an innate talent for hairstyling, she quickly became known for her creativity, charisma, and ability to make clients feel confident and reflected in their own bodies.

Throughout her journey, Brynn has been committed to breaking boundaries and supporting others on their own paths to self-discovery. Her work in the salon reflects her belief in the transformative power of self-expression, whether through hair or through the act of living authentically.

Her story is one of resilience, passion, and constant evolution, inspiring others to live their truth unapologetically and to pursue their dreams with confidence.




D. Scott McCracken, MD, is a family physician and Medical Director at WellSpan Community Health Center in York, Pennsylvania. He has been taking care of transgender patients and prescribing hormone therapy since 2015. As a leader of WellSpan's LGBTQ+ Steering Committee, he is involved in improving access to care for LGBTQ+ patients across WellSpan's service region of southcentral PA (and is always looking for comments/feedback!).




Miles McGovney (they/them) is a combined Internal Medicine/Pediatrics resident physician, currently in their fourth and last year of residency. Originally from Albuquerque, NM, they currently work with Penn State Health in Hershey, PA, and have been hired to work after residency as a primary care physician with Lehigh Valley Health Network in Allentown, PA. Their areas of expertise include gender affirming care for transgender and gender diverse children and adults as well as care for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities.




Beth McKinley (she/her) brings a unique blend of experience, passion, and advocacy to her role as Associate Wealth Advisor at Roots Financial Group at Thrivent. After 15 years as a donor advisor for regional, national, and international non-profit organizations, Beth transitioned her expertise in charitable giving to the financial services industry, where she’s committed to helping clients build financial plans that reflect their values and priorities. Beth is particularly dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, offering a welcoming and inclusive approach to financial planning. She works closely with individuals, couples, and organizations who want to integrate giving into their financial strategy, empower women to take control of their financial futures, and create a space where everyone feels seen and heard. Beth holds the Affirming Advisor (AA), the Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) designation, and is a member of the Keystone Business Alliance, the LGBT Chamber of Commerce in Central PA. Her leadership extends beyond finance: she was the first Chair of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging for the Carlisle Branch of AAUW and co-chaired the ELCA Lower Susquehanna Synod’s LGBTQIA+ Affirming Taskforce. Beth’s passion for giving back is also evident in her extensive volunteer work. Currently, she serves on the Board of Directors for the YWCA of Carlisle and Cumberland County and is a member of the organization's Development Committee. Through her work and advocacy, Beth is deeply committed to making a positive impact in her community, particularly for those whose voices are often marginalized. With Beth, you’ll find more than just financial planning – you’ll find a partner who understands the importance of creating a secure, equitable, and compassionate future for all.




Charlie Mesure (he/they) is a trans photographer and model from Philadelphia. Bored with cisgender/heteronormative beauty standards, his work focuses on trans and queer bodies and the infinite spectrum of self-expression in the LGBT+ community. He thinks that everyone deserves to feel desirable and loved—even you, person reading this. When he’s not making art he’s generally being a menace in the local comedy scene or rescuing stray cats. Check out his work or book a session with him on Instagram @spookyboneboy_




Donna's Hair Studio & Spa was founded more than 35 years ago and has been at its current location for over 25 years. The salon is now a Paul Mitchell Focus Salon carrying the full line of John Paul Mitchell Systems hair products and styling tools, a full line of exclusive Bodyography Super Natural Cosmetics, 2 fully-equipped manicure stations, a private skin care room featuring full body waxing, facials and massage, a private pedicure room, and seven hair stations. We have a small wig salon carrying Raquel Welsh, Gabor, and Henry Margu. Visit my site at Donnaswigs.com




Melissa Morton is an attorney turned accountant (now retired) who has been interested in history for many years. Melissa graduated from Davidson College with a B.A. degree in history. While attending law school at the College of William & Mary, Melissa worked at Colonial Williamsburg as a costumed historical interpreter. From this experience she realized that the stories of people, places, and ideas do not tell themselves: they have to be told by others. Melissa occupies the narrow niche of crossdressing historical reenactors, and has become well known in the world of Civil War reenacting. She has an impressive collection of reproduction dresses from multiple eras of history.




Alicia Mullens is a professor and department chair of Meteorology at De Anza Community College, in Cupertino, California; she also lectures part-time at nearby San Jose State University. She is a proud transgender woman, who has devoted tremendous time to making her classroom and college campuses more welcoming to LGBTQ+ students, staff, and faculty. She has presented workshops on supporting transgender and LGBTQ+ students at national and regional conferences (such as the National Association of Geoscience Teachers), along with holding discussions and workshops at her local colleges. Her work has won her awards, such as the 2022 De Anza College Faulty Equity Champion Award, and the 2022 San Jose State College of Science Excellence in Teaching Award. Born and raised in Southern California, Alicia grew up in a working class family, in a world where gender was oftentimes the last thing on someone's mind. Growing up in the 90's, transgender representation was often limited to a few daytime talk shows and sitcoms, many of which weren't very affirming of transgender individuals, and as such, Alicia remained closeted until the late 2010's. Upon making space for this side of her, Alicia quickly realized that her identity was that of a transgender woman, and during the space that the COVID-19 Pandemic created for people to explore themselves, she, along with her wife Jamie, made the decision that she should transition into Alicia full time. She began her transition at work in 2021, first by participating in campus LGBTQ+ events as Alicia, but, thanks to a supportive campus community, quickly began integrating Alicia into her professional life more and more until, in January of 2022, she finally heard those heels clicking down the hallway as she walked into class. At her places of work, Alicia continues to advocate for better policies and procedures for transitioning students and staff on campus, and she continues to turn her classroom into a safe space for queer students who may not feel like they have elsewhere to go. In her spare time, Alicia enjoys fashion, craft beer (including homebrewing), travel (via all modes of transportation), and spending time with her wife Jamie.




Emmy Nim has been involved with Yoga for many years and has risen to the position of Dahn Master, and teaches in the Chicago area.She has received extensive training in the United States, Korea and New Zealand. She teaches Yoga to a broad span of age groups from pre teens to seniors in their nineties. Her style of teaching is Korean based, and concentrates of the combination of mind and body. She is an accomplished Red Belt in Dahn Mundo(Korean Tai Chi), and Holistic healing, Her method concentrates on Stretching, Meditation, Breathing Relaxation, and Brain Vibrations.




Suzane Oliva Yendall is a Retired fully Transitioned Trans Sexual Woman who still does “Consulting & Trouble-shooting” work for “special” clients. Suzane is a Valve, Actuation, Steam, & Strainer Application, Specification expert – “guru”. She has traveled to Five continents and worked on multiple national and international projects with global partners. She has been involved in developing Engineering approvals for major end users like P&G, Linde, Exxon Mobile, Sunoco & the US Navy. She has been a Farmer, Owner Operator, Line Haul Driver, Manufacturers Representative, Product Manager, VP of BDK Engineering in North America, & Product Application Specialist. You cannot get on a USSN ship that does not have a Valve Line she has not been “involved with”. In her previous life when she was playing a “Bit Part on the stage of Life” she was the President of the Maryland Association of the FFA for 75-76. Suzane was one of the original members of Trans Central PA. She was also a member of the Island Girls in Chicago, a charter member of the Classy DC Sisters, and the Transgendered Houston Cover Girls. She has attended and participated in every Keystone Conference except for the very first one. She originated the “Tuesday Pre Keystone” dinner for early arrival attendees. Was instrumental in getting Amy from Just you in Las Vegas to come and work at The Keystone Conference. She hosts a Special Dinner at The Final Cut Steakhouse at the Hollywood Casino on Friday night of Keystone (Was Thursday before 2023) Her favorite Quotation comes from Dr. Seuss “ Why Blend in WHEN YOU WERE MEANT TO STAND OUT! The ringtone on her phone is the Shania Twain song “Man I Feel Like A Woman”. So if you have a question or want to converse stop over and see her. She does have a few stories!




Tess Olsson (they/them) is a nonbinary trans person currently working as a Project Coordinator at NJCRI, a comprehensive community-based organization in Newark, NJ. They supervise NJ GURRRLS (Garnering Urgent Recommendations, Resources, & Research to Lift up Sisters), also known as NHBS-Trans Newark, a CDC- and NJDOH-supported bio-behavioral study aiming to learn more about the health and resource needs of trans women and transfeminine people living in the Greater Newark area. In 2023, they received a Master of Public Health in LGBTQ+ Health from the Rutgers School of Public Health. Tess’ research career centers the health promotion of queer and trans communities and their topics of interest include barriers and facilitators to gender-affirming healthcare for trans individuals and communities, the impact of legislation on LGBTQ+ health and wellness, and the unique health needs and experiences of trans people who menstruate. In their free time, they enjoy playing video games, obsessing over Star Wars and Marvel, forest bathing, and reading any queer book they can get their hands on.




Jae O’Neal is a passionate diversity, equity, and inclusion advocate with a wealth of experience in creating inclusive environments. With a background in corporate leadership, Jae has trained teams on the importance of diversity and ensuring safe spaces for all individuals. As an Auxiliarist with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Jae worked to foster diversity within their flotilla, promoting a broad range of ideas and perspectives. Jae’s focus is on empowering marginalized voices and advancing DEI practices in every space they engage with.




Michelle Popkov has given presentations at the major Transgender Conferences since 2011 on style and technique. She is the President Emerita of the Vanity Club and a co-founder of the Las Vegas-based Transgender United—an all-inclusive social and support group for the LGBT community. Michelle is retired and lives in Las Vegas, NV.




Marg Produe is a person living with intersex traits. Marg is a retired Scientist, Inventor and Video Producer who has worked and taught extensively. Marg holds degrees in General Science, Biology, Information Technology and Technical Prosthetics. Marg has been happily married for 42 years and now works part-time during the summer as a lumberjack at the family tree farm and also in winter as a woman’s costumer. Marg is a member of interACT, InterConnect, Egale, Madison Area Transgender Association, Lake Country PFLAG, The River City Gems, Transgender Heaven and Crossdresser Heaven. Marg also volunteers for Pride and PrideFest and has attended Atlanta Comfort Conference Diva Las Vegas, Keystone, Wildside and BeAll.




Kelly is a fairly recent addition to the crossdressing community. Although thoughts of crossdressing and inner femininity have been a part of her life since youth, the image of Kelly wasn't fully realized until about 5 years ago. Kelly describes herself as quiet, reserved and demure in most situations but is very sociable as CD/TG events and in Crossdresser Heaven chat. Kelly currently serves as Assistant Managing Ambassador for chat on CDH.




Gwen is the co-founder of The Effective Consulting Group—a boutique consulting firm helping organizations, teams, and individuals reach new heights and greater levels of effectiveness and personal growth. Her passion is the pursuit of personal wellness; and, her research explores Diversity Studies—examining social differences defined including race, class, gender, religion, ethnicity, age, diversity, and other markers of identity—with a view to help others understand different cultures, allowing them to interact in a wider range of social groups and feel more confident in themselves as well as in their interactions with others.




Haley Rohrbaugh is an attorney with CGA Law Firm with extensive years of legal experience in both Florida and Pennsylvania. She joined the Bankruptcy Law Group at CGA in 2010, where her primary focus is in Chapter 13, Chapter 11, and Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, although she also assists clients in business formation and representation and estate law.

Haley attended Fairfield Area School District most of her life, but graduated from high school in Fort Myers, Florida. She is a graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business. After moving back to Pennsylvania and while working as a full-time paralegal at CGA Law Firm, she completed her Juris Doctorate at Widener University Commonwealth Law School via their Evening Division Program.

In college, Haley spent extensive time traveling abroad on mission trips to Romania, Hungary, Australia and New Zealand. As a team leader for each trip, she and her team focused on restoring homes and playgrounds, which were weathered by time, graffiti and litter. They also worked with local orphanages and churches to help those in need. Haley’s fundraising efforts enabled her to participate in these mission trips and eventually translated into a multi-year position on the York County Paralegal Association as Fundraising Chair.

Haley is a member of the York County Bar Association and the Young Lawyers Section. She also works closely with Mid Penn Legal Services and Middle District Bankruptcy Bar Association to offer pro bono representation for low-income families. Haley was honored with a Pro Bono Recognition Award from the York County Bar Association for her work with pro bono clients in 2017 and 2022.




Sharon Rose is a transgender person who has attended every year of the Keystone Conference. For many years, she has served as a member of the Helping Hand Team, answering questions and assisting first-year attendees with maximizing their experience at Keystone. She believes in “paying it forward” and enjoys making newcomers feel welcome. She is a proud member of the Vanity Club, and she is also active in her local transgender support groups. She is married to a supportive spouse and has two children. Sharon lives and works in the Washington D.C. Metro area. Her interests include long distance running and snow skiing. She is an active member of her Reform Synagogue.




Carlos Salazar is a passionate community relations and outreach specialist, a dedicated dad, and a champion for inclusive conversations. With a career spanning nonprofit leadership, youth engagement, and digital transformation, he’s worked with WSSC Water, The Dads Foundation, the Human Rights Campaign, and the Scouts of America. A certified Project Management Professional, Carlos has earned national recognition for his work in multicultural communications and outreach. He is also the subject of The Dads, Too, a follow-up to the Emmy Award-winning short film The Dads.




Melodee is a Baltimore area resident and been crossdressing fully for a little over 2 years. She's an organizer for DC area Meetup groups and gets out locally to CD/TG events as well as simple outings with friends or mall trips. Melodee is an Assistant Managing Ambassador on Crossdresser Heaven, a site she joined 1½ years ago. She has a partner of 11 years as well as a teenage daughter, both of whom are fully supportive of her dressing. This year will be her third Keystone and she'll be quite pleased to meet you!




Jill Sherman has dedicated her career to providing exceptional hair removal services, building a reputable business specializing in electrolysis and laser hair removal over the past 35 years. Her passion for client care and her expertise in both techniques have established her as a leader in the field. Jill is deeply committed to the transgender community, understanding the vital role hair removal plays in their journeys. This commitment to education and client well-being informs all aspects of her practice.

In 2016, after attending the first Keystone Conference, Jill & Bonnie’s Electrolysis and Laser expanded its vision, excited to reach out to, and formally welcome the LGBTQ community into their supportive circle. Over the past few decades, the practice has served countless clients, from all walks of life, creating a legacy of transformative experiences and feelings of deep gratitude.




"I believe that I work in the greatest profession in the world!" After 34+ years in this business, Tina Siders is still proud to be a professional hair stylist and is passionate about every aspect of the craft. Educating for L'ANZA Healing Haircare for the last 7 years has kept Tina at the top of her game. Leader of the team at Rise Hair Studio, Harrisburg, it is important to her that ALL people have the opportunity to feel respected and safe in their salon environment. This belief led Tina to become an alliance member of the Dresscode Project, an organization born “to educate and empower hair stylists and barbers to give people haircuts that help them look the way they feel.” Tina and team are ready to welcome you to Rise for a multitude of services including makeup, all hair services including wig styling, manicures, pedicures, facial, full body waxing, lash extensions and more! We are 10 minutes from the Hilton downtown. Call us at 717-540-1225. 🏳️‍🌈 #proudally #saferspace #hairhasnogender




Skylar W. Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist. They recently opened a Private Practice this past September called Welcoming Connections, LLC with use of space at the Central PA LGBT Center in Harrisburg. Skylar knows personally and professionally the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and strives to do more to be a part of the Queer community. They are an avid reader and student of life, have a wife of 35 years, have 2 cats, value nature and spirituality, enjoy good food and drink as well as open to meaningful conversations about life and promoting well-being through making art, play, and humor. For the past 2 years, Skylar has also been the lead co-facilitator of Acrasid, a Trans/Nonbinary Group which meets weekly in Lancaster city under the banner of The Eastern PA Trans Equity Project.




I am currently a licensed family physician with a full time outpatient practice and also work as a part-time hospitalist at Wellspan York Hospital. I first started to provide gender affirming care in residency after an encounter with my first trans-female patient. When I asked her about pronoun use, she burst into tears and said that no doctor had ever asked her that before, and she asked if since I knew about pronouns, if I could help her undergo medical gender affirming therapy. I helped start the gender affirming medical program at Wellspan York Hospital Family Medicine Residency with a beloved faculty member (Dr Cathy Carpenter) and truly embodied the idea of "see one, do one, teach one". I helped build that practice and trained staff on working well with this unique population, then when I graduated residency, had a large group of gender diverse individuals follow me to my new practice in Brogue, PA where I now have a large gender diverse and gender affirming medicine panel. Amidst the chaos, long hours, and endless frustrations with modern medicine, it is truly my work with gender affirming medicine that provides me with the "why I do this" answer every time I get to work with one of my patients.




Ann Stillwater (she/they) M.Ed. BSN, BA, ADN and certified yoga instructor specializes in chair yoga and guided meditations.




Meet Cassandra Storm—a visionary force whose work is transforming lives in LGBTQ+ communities as well as specializing in women and children recovering from trauma. As the Co-Founder of CLK Events, Cass is dedicated to creating inclusive, affirming spaces for personal growth and empowerment. Along with her Keystone Conference Co-Founder Kristy Snow and Transformative Life Coach Liz Tattersall, she co-created Letting Go in Lancaster, an innovative women’s retreat designed to unite cis and trans women in a supportive, healing environment. Join the girls for their second annual retreat October 2025.

Cass’s journey began in 2012 when she was invited to photograph the Keystone Conference, sparking her deep connection to the transgender community. Since then, she’s photographed and taught transformative workshops on poise, feminine comportment, and yoga, from Boston to Fort Lauderdale. In 2020, she launched My Feminine Heart, a trans feminine online resource, and in 2021, became Co-Chair of the Keystone Conference. Her advocacy earned her the Member of the Year Award from the Keystone Business Alliance in 2022 for her outstanding contributions to the transgender community.

A dedicated yogi for 20 years, Cass earned her 200 RYT certification in 2019 and specializes in trauma-informed yoga. She works with individuals struggling with PTSD, particularly children and teens in foster care, guiding them through healing practices that nurture both the mind and body. Cass's classes create safe, powerful spaces for emotional release and self-discovery.

Whether leading workshops, retreats, or simply offering guidance, Cass’s work is all about empowerment, healing, and helping others step into their full, authentic selves. Ready to join her on a journey of transformation? Don’t miss the opportunity to experience her magic at First Event, the Keystone Conference and Letting Go in Lancaster.




Tesla is an active and dedicated LGBTQIA+ advocate and an openly transgender/gender fluid, queer, and polyamorous person. They serve as president of the Rainbow Rose Center board, has previously served as the secretary of PFLAG York, and is the former chair of the social justice committee of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of York. He works as the Coordinator for Information Technology at Pennsylvania Court Appointed Special Advocates (PA CASA). He is an award-winning contributor for The Central Voice, Central PA’s LGBT+ news source. They currently live in Harrisburg with their husband and their many menagerie of pets.




Liz is a Transformational Life Coach, Dream Builder Coach, and Life Mastery Consultant who helps individuals who feel overwhelmed and confused at a crossroads in life to find clarity, purpose, and energy so they can live an authentic life they love. Liz believes we are all capable of far more than we realize, and that we can really live a life that we love living. A Registered Nurse by training with more than 20 years in the pharmaceutical industry, Liz brings her decades of training, mentoring and life experience to her Transformational Life Coaching business, helping people build their dreams, accelerate their results, and create richer, more fulfilling lives. As a sought-after life coach and professional speaker Liz offers inspiring workshops as well as transformational in-depth coaching programs to help clients achieve new heights of success, fulfillment, and spiritual aliveness. A regular presenter and speaker at many of the Transgender Conferences throughout the year, Liz is privileged and honored to serve the LGBTQ community.




Hi! My name is Lindsey. If you saw my shoe collection you’d understand – FASHION IS MY PASSION! A passion that led me to a life in the luxury fashion industry where I quickly became an invested student – learning how to cobble my own shoes, make garments my own and dress the top 1% to impress. While attending New York City’s Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), only after years of working in the industry, did I learn to truly understand and respect the nuances of skin tone and the spectrum of colors that goes with it. I became more intrigued with image consulting than fashion creation. I have had the joy of styling men and women and the privilege of working with the transgender community; styling people of all shapes and sizes from all walks of life. I’ve gained an enormous amount of knowledge while working for companies like Jeffrey NYC, Saks and was a senior stylist for MM LaFleur, in Washington, DC. The affirming and positive impact I’ve had on my clients has given me the inspiration to know that I can help shape your entire wardrobe and help you find your personal style.




Grace Thomas is a retired pastor with over 30 years of ministry experience. She raised two gay sons and one straight daughter. Grace came out as transgender later in life, after retirement. She now identifies as lesbian. She has been married to Cindy for 48 years. Since 2016, when Grace came out, they have worked hard at finding ways to make their marriage work. Starting Oct 2021 they began experimenting with their “shared sacrifice” with Grace living and functioning as a woman part of the time while living and presenting as Cindy’s husband in shared spaces. Sixteen months ago Grace and Cindy made the decision for Grace to transition fully. They both remain committed to each other while now walking through the experience of separation. Grace is very involved in supporting parents of LGBTQ+ kids and often leads online book clubs to help people explore affirming theology and various related topics including friendship. An introvert by nature, friendships have never come easy. But they HAVE become the lifeblood of Grace’s thriving as a queer person. Helping others experience this thriving is another one of her passions.




Dr. James Thomas, a laryngologist specializes in voice change and voice disorders. His undergraduate and medical training started at Penn State, followed by residency training at Southern Illinois University and subsequently a voice fellowship at Loyola University in Chicago. He currently offers fellowship training in laryngology in Portland, Oregon. A pioneer in surgical vocal pitch change, he develops procedures to alter voice. He developed Feminization Laryngoplasty (FemLar) over the past 20 years and has presented and published results at professional meetings and peer reviewed professional journals. Refining surgical procedures is ongoing for Feminization Laryngoplasty, vocal cord webbing, thyrohyoid elevation, pharyngeal narrowing and laser vocal cord thinning.




Jodie has had her Touchstone Crystal business for over 10 years and her true passion is to help make women feel beautiful and confident about themselves. It just takes a little Sparkle to make that happen! Looking forward to sharing not only the beautiful Swarovski sparkle, but also getting to meet everyone! Please join her for her Workshop on Friday! She was recently was married in November to her husband Carl and between them have 5 kids and 4 grandkids.




Trixie is relatively new to being public in the crossdressing scene. She identifies as a gender fluid person who crossdresses. She's cheerful, friendly, creative and loves strutting around like a “sassy peacock” in her favorite 8” heels. But most of all, she enjoys helping other CD/TG gals find their confidence and poise, encouraging and assisting them to expand their comfort zones and explore new opportunities. Trixie is local to the NoVA area and tries to participate in as many events as she can balance with her family and work obligations. This is her first Keystone Conference, attending alongside some of her best CD friends.




With over 20 years experience as a transgender care specialist electrolysist, Mr Walker has built up plenty experience in both hair removal and the special challenges faced by the transgender community. Many have been aided and guided through the complicated maze of transition.




Max is a 27 year-old trans man who came out in 2023. He is local to the Harrisburg area and in his free time enjoys watching youtube video essays, knitting/crocheting, and taking care of his plants.




Lilia Weber is a veteran of the Keystone Conference with 100% attendance. She is a proud parent, grandparent, and professionally is an Agile Coach and Senior Manager Consultant working in software development. She completed her professional transition in place in 2016 while continuing with the same employer. Lilia currently serves on the board of the Eastern Pennsylvania Trans Equity Project as Vice Chair and also serves on in her employer's corporate DIB Council as Vice Chair. She is active in many of the company’s ERGs. She is a member of multiple trans support groups and is an active person of faith.




Dr.Tish Weikel is a Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of Phoenix Counseling Services, LLC, a private practice in rural Gettysburg PA. Phoenix prides itself on being an affirmative counseling practice that provides quality care to LGBTQIAP+ populations. In addition to running the Phoenix group, Tish is also an adjunct instructor at Shippensburg University of PA. Lastly, Tish cofounded Doug's Haven Inc, a grassroots non-profit organization working to end stigma against marginalized populations such as the LGBTQIAP community.




Hannah Wenger, MD (she), is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine and PennState Health Hershey Medical Center Division of General Internal Medicine.  She completed an internal medicine residency and clinical medical ethics fellowship at the University of Chicago and a rural health fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. In her clinical practice, she provides primary and consultative care to transgender adults across the PennState Health system. Her areas of academic interest are Indigenous health, gender care, and sexual health. Outside of her work at Penn State, Hannah is a clinical consultant at the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board, a regional tribal public health authority in the Pacific Northwest; in this role, she provides supports medical care for American Indian/Alaska Native Two Spirit and transgender community members across the United States.




April Wightman is a relationship coach and HR professional who is passionate about helping others live their best lives. Prior to launching Goldfinch Empowerment Services, She honed their expertise in human resources, leading high-performing teams and mentoring individuals on professional and personal development.

April's coaching approach is deeply rooted in understanding human behavior and fostering self-awareness. She believes that authentic relationships are built on a foundation of self-compassion, clear communication, and mutual respect. April's own journey of personal growth, including a longstanding yoga and meditation practice, has instilled in her a deep appreciation for mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and the power of self-reflection.

April is passionate about creating safe and inclusive spaces for individuals to explore their relationships with themselves and others. She recognizes the unique challenges and joys that come with navigating relationships within the LGBTQ+ community and are committed to providing affirming and supportive guidance for trans individuals and their allies.

April's dedication to personal and professional development extends beyond the coaching realm. She actively seeks opportunities to learn and grow, staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in relationship counseling, LGBTQ+ issues, and mental health. April is a resident of Maryland and enjoys spending time with her family when not coaching. She enjoys road biking, birdwatching and her regular meditation practice.

April is excited to share their knowledge and expertise with participants in this workshop, fostering an environment of growth, understanding, and empowerment.




Born in Los Angeles to Chinese Immigrants fleeing mainland China during communist revolution. Growing up in Southern California (Los Angeles, Santa Monica, La Habra and Fullerton) Discovered at an early age (<10 year old) her penchant to wear girls clothes By age 17-18 learned to accept herself and love herself Early adulthood stayed closeted dresser Age 36 first time out fully dressed (not during Halloween) Not ready to transition learn to live the bigender lifestyle (part time crossdresser) sort of boy by day, girl by night effort. Continues to live this lifestyle Age 54 started the online highly successful meetup group, Los Angeles (formerly Billings) TG Meetup Group. We have just celebrated our 10th anniversary and have nearly 700 members Weekly meetup outings scheduled regularly with now well over 1000 scheduled meetups under out belt. College: UCLA, major chemistry Medical School: UCLA Internship residency: UCLA internal medicine Fellowship training: UCLA Hematology Oncology Previous medical faculty at UCLA Currently local offices in Santa Monica and Inglewood. Actively engaged in travel medicine (current locations include Maine, Alaska, Kansas City) Noteworthy achievements: Numerous publications both primary and coauthorship including two seminal articles reflecting discovery of the HER2 gene in breast cancer (Science 1987, 1989), Awarded $40,000 fellowship research grant; Received top 10% faculty teaching award (May 2023) University of Missouri, Kansas City.




Natasha is a self-taught makeup artist and crossdresser from Queens. She began her journey in 2016, but started getting more serious about dressing up and makeup in 2021. She offers both in-person and online makeup classes, as well as makeup services tailored to crossdressers and trans individuals in the New York City area. With nearly 10K followers on Instagram, she has become an influencer, sharing tips on makeup and dressing up.




Christine Zuba (She/Her) is from Blackwood, NJ, just outside of Philadelphia. She's responsible for National Sales Accounts for Dielectric LLC, a Maine based manufacturer of equipment for the television and radio industries. Christine travels nationwide working with senior level management of ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and PBS amongst others. Christine’s corporate parent is Sinclair Broadcasting, one of the largest group owners of television stations in the US. Christine has a BSEE from Penn State, an MBA from Rutgers, and has been employed in engineering and sales for over 30 years. She transitioned successfully in 2015.