Alumnus Mark Weller (he/him) is a Consulting Director at Simpson Weller & Associates and we recently caught up with him ahead of LGBTQ+ History Month 2023 to hear about the changes he'd like to see take place in regards to LGBTQ+ rights.

What does LGBTQ+ History month mean to you/why is it important to you?

For me, it’s a moment to pause and reflect. Reflect on the sacrifices others have selflessly made before us. On how far we have come, and the difference we see today. And yet still how far we have to go - a chance to step up and take the baton forward, for the next generation. 

Do you have any LGBTQ+ role models that inspire you? Who and why?

Wow - so many. Sandi Toksvig for her refreshingly positive, yet fiercely determined, advocacy of LGBTQ+ equality. Josh Cavallo and the painfully recently-passed Simon Dunn, for moving mountains on and off the sports field. Allies far and wide for their unwavering support. And every single member of the LGBTQ+ communities from across the Commonwealth who walked into the stadium alongside Tom Daley at the 2022 Games, heads held high in celebration for the world to see. Heroes!

What career or personal achievement/s are you most proud of?

I still look back so fondly on my time at Exeter – it’s such a special place and the catalyst for where I am today – I’m forever grateful for that opportunity. Career wise, I guess always pushing the boundaries - with the right level of determination and focus. Nothing is unachievable and no one should say otherwise. I’ve been lucky with my career and worked with some great people, inspirational leaders, in purposeful organisations. In others, I’ve experienced toxicity and a ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ culture - there’s work still to be done…yet we make progress every day.

Progress has been made in terms of LGBTQ+ rights, equality, and inclusion but what is a change would still like to see?

A world where inclusion isn’t a department, an agenda item, or someone’s job - it’s a given. A culture where equality is the norm, not the goal. A better, kinder world.

I had a milestone birthday recently and during my speech, with my husband by my side, we launched a climate scholarship in partnership with Exeter; climate change and ocean plastic being topics very dear to me. It was a chance to give something back. In wrapping the speech with our friends and family gathered, I concluded with: “One day a gay couple holding hands in public, having kids, or just - being, won’t be an issue. Until then we’ll keep doing what we must and I thank you, deeply, for your support towards a brighter, more open-minded world”. The pride on the faces in front of me was a picture - immeasurable and indescribable. I’ll cherish that. 

Do you have any advice for students at the university?

Be your whole, true self. The rest will follow.