Harley Brown, an unwavering LGBTQIA2S+ advocate and dedicated MSU employee, grew up in rural Michigan where he faced the formidable challenge of coming out as queer in a conservative community.
Recalling his early experiences, Brown shared, “I had teachers who said, ‘I’m so glad you didn’t do this in high school because I would have feared for your safety.’”
He eventually came out on X (when it was still called Twitter) and made online friends he still has to this day.
Despite the obstacles, Brown remained undeterred. “I was known for pushing gender boundaries. I went to university Homecoming in a dress,” he said. “I wanted to combat negative perceptions about queer people, but my family was not supportive and feared that I would jeopardize my future if I was publicly queer.”
Left to navigate his journey alone, Brown found strength in authenticity. “I needed to express my true self. I became the person I needed when I was a kid.”
Today, Brown’s individuality shines through in his daily life. “My nails are always painted a different color every day — I have 117 kinds of nail polish and, yes, I do have that number memorized. And yes, I do have a spreadsheet,” he said with a laugh.
The colorful nails, vibrant blazers and occasional scarves are outward expressions of a person who is inwardly comfortable in his own skin and has found an inclusive and welcoming home at MSU.
Now, Brown is forging a successful career in communications and proudly identifies himself on LinkedIn as a “Queer Social Media Specialist” with the knowledge that he enjoys full backing as an advocate from his supervisor, College of Nursing Senior Communications and Marketing Officer Kristofer Karol.
“I think it’s very important that he can advocate for his community and that we give him an opportunity to do that,” Karol said.
Brown, who smiles easily and often, said the support he receives is critical to his success and job satisfaction.
“I love it here. This is definitely where I belong.”
Q&A
(This interview has been edited for length)
Tell us about your job and what brought you to MSU?
For two years, I have been the content and social media coordinator at the College of Nursing. Before that, I was with the University of Michigan. I wanted a new challenge, so I defected and never looked back.
What are your goals for communications at the College of Nursing?
One of my goals is to tell authentic stories, especially of our students. They are some of the most kind people I’ve ever met. It’s quite nice to have that kind of ability to connect with our Spartans that way.
How do you tell authentic stories?
One way that I started was with an Instagram takeover — nursing students get a temporary password for our Instagram, take over the channel and post things that showcase their experiences. Currently, we have a takeover with several students in London. Because of the time difference, I’ve had to work odd hours to keep an eye on things.
It’s a good recruitment tool. As a 28-year-old, I can talk about this program all I want, but it’s more relatable and authentic for prospective students when current students step into that role.
Any favorite stories from the last two years?
The love story was one because our nursing school is extremely competitive, so a couple getting into the same program while also being high school sweethearts, the odds were so crazy. I think they just got married this month.
Currently, I’m working on a story about two students on an education abroad experience in Ghana who are doing amazing hands-on care with mothers, delivering babies and providing them with care. The students are getting a unique perspective of health care and how privileged we are in the United States.
How can Spartans be supportive as allies?
Educate yourself on the basics, like the acronym, the pride flag, pronouns. Google is free! Learn about resources on campus.
Finally, what has your experience been like at MSU as a queer employee?
Our college is really good at supporting me. A few months ago, after [an incident where two Spartans at the MSU Library were targeted based on their sexual orientation], my supervisor, Kristofer Karol, checked in to see if I was doing okay and messaged Dean Leigh Small, who stopped by my office to check on me and to tell me how much I am valued here. I’ve never had that kind of experience before at previous jobs.
I’ve also started building friendships with other queer people on campus. Getting to know them and sharing what we’re all going through has been so helpful. I like to think that each generation is trailblazing for the next one so that they can be more empowered than us.
There’s a long way to go. But how far we have come is very impressive.