March 18th - 22nd, 2026

2026 Participant Biographies

 
Mr. Aaron Ayala
He/Him

Aaron Ayala is a 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 25 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.




Heather Ayers

Heather Ayers is a transwoman who believes every human deserves respect and each of us should feel pride in who we are and not let others define our worth.




Ms. Susan Bienvenu
LMSW, LAc
She/Her

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 has given 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 during the conference or via email individually, and will exchange contact information with interested parties at the workshop.




Jamie Yve Brown is a Deaf/HOH, transmasculine non-binary, or as they prefer, transbinary (as in transcending the binary) person, who is an author, artist, performer, public speaker, advocate, & owner of The Blessed Chest, where their message is, “We’re all jewels and gems in the Treasure Chest of The Universe. If pearls were faceted like diamonds, they would be flawed. Likewise, if diamonds were milky in color, like pearls, they would be flawed, so being yourself is the best way for you to truly shine!” Jamie Yve Brown is also the director of Rivertown Pride Center in Columbia, PA, working to help connect people with resources that support the LGBTQIA+ community, and resources to increase accessibility of LGBTQIA+ events for community members with disabilities. They use a wheelchair and also have ADHD, dyslexia, PTSD, and several other disabilities. Jamie Yve Brown is a person who lives life at the intersection of Disability Accessibility & LGBTQIA+ Inclusion, and much of their work centers around intentional Accessibility & Inclusion. Intentional Accessibility & Inclusion, plans for accessibility & inclusion of people with disabilities LGBTQIA+ people from the start rather then retrofitting an event, program, or business later in the planning. They have presented in their own webinars, and at events such as the 2024 TransTech Summit. They have performed at the York County Pride and New Cumberland's Cute Lil' Pride Picnic, under their drag name, Hayden N. Plaincite. Some ot their workshops center around using the arts for self-care and advocacy.



Ms. Karla Brown
She/Her

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



Rev. Joanne Carroll
Executive Director, Trans Advocacy Pennsylvania
She/Her

Joanne M. Carroll is the Executive Director of Trans Advocacy Pennsylvania; a former three-term Commissioner on the Pennsylvania Governor's Commission on LGBTQ Affairs; Past President of TransCentralPA, Past President and Past Vice President of EqualityPA, and is the Co-Chair Emerita of the Keystone Conference She serves as a Consultant to the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and served as a member of the Governors’ LGBT Working Group, the Millersville University - President’s Commission on Gender and Sexual Diversity, and is a member of the Transgender American Veterans Association and is a Life Member of the Disabled American Veterans./ She is an active member of the Penn Central Conference, UCC (United Church of Christ) - Open and Affirming Ministry Team, and is an active member of Christ Church United Church of Christ where she served for two years as the President of Consistory (Leadership Council) in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. She is a member of Lancaster County Embrace, a group providing support to congregations that affirm LGBTQ persons of faith, and by the way, she is an ordained Minister and preaches often in multiple venues in Pennsylvania and routinely serves as a wedding officiant.




Raphaela Cassandra

Raphi is a martial artist and community safety educator with experience teaching empowerment-based self-defense and boundary-setting in community and advocacy spaces. His work focuses on helping people—particularly those from marginalized communities—build confidence, clarity, and agency around personal safety without relying on fear-based messaging or physical dominance. Drawing on years of martial arts practice and applied self-defense experience, he emphasizes decision-making, verbal boundary-setting, and simple, effective physical responses that work under stress. His approach centers consent, trauma awareness, and nervous-system understanding, recognizing how social conditioning and minority stress can impact a person’s ability to respond in threatening situations. As a trans person, he brings lived experience to his work, acknowledging the real safety concerns trans and gender-expansive people face while offering tools to increase safety without living in constant hypervigilance. His workshops integrate discussion, embodied practice, and realistic demonstrations to reinforce that participants already have the capacity to protect themselves.




Mx. Lila Charap
She/Her

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, and father of four, including a transgender son. After losing his wife to breast cancer in 2016, he channeled his grief into purpose, founding The Dads Foundation in 2024 — a national nonprofit supporting fathers of transgender and nonbinary children through storytelling, community-building, and advocacy. Stephen is featured in the Emmy Award–winning Netflix documentary The Dads and serves as producer of its forthcoming feature-length follow-up, which unites a diverse group of fathers in love and support for their gender-expansive kids. He also co-hosts The Parent Advocate Podcast, amplifying the voices of trans youth and their families while confronting disinformation and advancing equity through informed, compassionate dialogue. As co-founder of Rainbow in Black, a Maryland-based nonprofit supporting Black families of gender-expansive children, a Black Youth Advocate with the National Black Justice Coalition, and a member of HRC’s Parents for Transgender Equality Council, Stephen works tirelessly to uplift and center Black and trans voices. A passionate speaker, facilitator, and writer, Stephen travels nationwide to foster empathy and understanding for gender-expansive youth. A graduate of Rutgers University and Seton Hall Law, he lives in Trenton, New Jersey, with his four children and their two cats, Zero and Sunny.




Deann and Cathy are a devoted couple who share a passion for cross-dress travel and the freedom of exploring the world En-Femme. Together, they turn each journey into an opportunity to celebrate authenticity, strengthen their partnership, and uplift others in the community. With every trip, they embrace new experiences, foster understanding, and show that confidence grows when love and support travel alongside you. Their adventures continue to inspire others to step out boldly and enjoy the world as their true selves. We have proudly organized six annual cross-dress travel cruises to destinations like the Caribbean and Alaska, creating safe, joyful, and inclusive adventures for those who wish to explore En-Femme. Our dedication to building community and fostering confidence has turned each cruise into a memorable experience where travelers can relax, connect, and celebrate authenticity together.




Diane, with her 30 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 6 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




Vincent P. Cuccia and Alex Bartlett run Planet Pepper. We have put the booty on the glamazons of the world with hip/butt pads, boobs and under garment accessories for over 15 years. On Planet Pepper, cross dressers, drag queens, afab and trans women, can get the body they crave and the confidence to live their true lives. Visit us at www.planetpeppernyc.com for a free consultation. Confidence has a shape and it’s Astrobooty and Astrobutt.



Mrs. Masha-Leah Dinah
She/Her

Masha-Leah is a Jewish transgender woman who finally started living authentically at the age of 60. She is now retired from the Tech Industry. Masha is an accomplished inventor with over 250 filed patents. Nowadays, she spends her time giving back to the community by being on the board of several LGBTQI+ Socially Responsible Organizations and is fully engaged in fighting hateful legislation by meeting with legislators, testifying, picketing and protesting to make the world a better place to live. This is her sixth year of attending the Keystone Conference.



Ms. Kristin Edwards
She/Her

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.




Erinn Eichinger is a documentary filmmaker, educator, and longtime television professional whose work centers on storytelling to educate and advocate. She is the producer of In Transition. The documentary that follows a mother and her transgender son on a parallel journey of identity, love, and acceptance. Erinn also spent years working in television, where she honed her skills in production, story development, and she now brings that real-world experience into the classroom teaching at the college level in California.



Rev. Grace Ferris
Pastor
She/Her

Mother Grace is a priest in Saint Wilgefortis Church, an independent church in the Catholic tradition that welcomes trans people into full communion. 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.



Bryanna Forsythe
Rise Hair Studio, Harrisburg, Stylist Extraordinaire
She/Her

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!



Ms. Melodee Frederick
She/Her

Melodee is a Baltimore area resident and been crossdressing fully for a little over 3 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 2½ years ago. She has a partner of 11 years as well as a 20yo daughter, both of whom are fully supportive of her dressing. This year will be her fourth Keystone and she'll be quite pleased to meet you!




(if led by Autumn Adamme) Dark Garden founder Autumn Adamme became known as the Godmother of Modern Corsetry after launching the business in 1989, reviving corsets for a modern body and audience. Autumn made her first corset at 12, having already developed an abiding interest in historical costuming and alternative aesthetics. Shortly after reaching the age of majority, she turned the crafting of custom corsets and ensembles into the groundbreaking business which established many of the techniques and standards observed by corsetmakers across the world today. (if led by Marianne Faulkner) Marianne Faulkner (any/all pronouns) is an internationally recognized corsetiere. She is known in the lingerie community for her corset-centric writing and design work, and presence as a founding fellow for the Oxford Conference of Corsetry. Marianne has worked at Dark Garden Corsetry since 2008 and was mentored in the craft by founder Autumn Adamme, known worldwide as the Godmother of Modern Corsetry. Now Creative Director, Marianne’s passion for the field and the company is built upon her love of corsetry as a means through which one can explore and express identity in many forms. Her approach to fitting all body types and sizes is equally informed by comfort, aesthetics, and mechanics of both the human form and the garment itself.




Ms. Karla Goodner
Keystone Registrar
She/Her

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.



Mx. Corinne Goodwin
Exec. Dir. Eastern PA Trans Equity Project
She/Her

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 Pennsylvania Governor's Commission on LGBTQ Affairs, Keystone Equality, The Pa Coalition of LGBTQ Organizations, the United Way, the ACLU, the Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, and other organizations to advance their causes and improve their processes.



Casey Grim
Rise Beauty Company Owner & Master Esthetician
She/Her

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.



Dr. Dr Sven Gunther
He/Him

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.



Ms. Savannah Hauk
Author
She/Her

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.




Jay Hess is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. He owns First Brick Counseling in Camp Hill, PA, specializing in LGBTQ+ mental health needs (including gender affirming letter evaluations), Autism, and ADHD. Jay's experience includes involvement with suicide prevention education at the LGBT Center of Central PA and working at the Adult Community Autism Program (ACAP) through Keystone Autism Services. He combines his personal experience as a queer ADHDer with his clinical training to cultivate a unique therapeutic approach for his clients.



Ms. Caela Hopkins
She/Her

Caela Hopkins (she/her) is the Chairwoman of the Esprit Gala & Conference as well as it's supporting organization, CNE Transventions. From the greater Seattle, Washington area, Caela is a member of the Emerald City Transgender Social Club and is currently serving as its Social Director. As part of a multi-generational transgender family, Caela has navigated the challenges experienced by people at different points on the gender spectrum from first jobs to elder care, and brings this broad spectrum of viewpoints to her advocacy. Caela is a founding member of Gamma Kappa Mu Transgender Sorority/Fraternity.




Dr. Carrie Houssock, MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in Baltimore County, Maryland. A graduate of Johns Hopkins Hospital with over 10 years of experience in aesthetic non-surgical and surgical treatments including hair restoration, she is an expert in the hair restoration community and a member of the International Society of Hair Restoration.



Ms. Janie K
She/Her

For Janie, fashion is a dialect rather than a dress code. As a student of the language of dress, she views personal style as a profound medium for self-revelation and the artful curation of femininity. Her primary fascination lies at the intersection of our inner archetypes and our outer layers. By bridging these universal identities with sartorial choice, Janie explores how the clothes we wear become the living narratives of who we are.




Ms. PD KALTENBACH
She/Her

No bio provided.



Ms. Amy Keisling
ACSW, LCSW, BCD
She/Her

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), a primary focus of her work has been in the provision of gender-affirming care to transgender and gender-diverse people. Ms. Keisling proudly served for six years as Coordinator for the pediatric and adolescent Gender Health Clinic at Penn State Health. She is now providing therapy and support for medical students and physician assistant students in the Office for Professional Mental Health at the Penn State University College of Medicine.




mary klatt

Mary L. Klatt is an attorney with more than 15 years of courtroom experience. She earned her Juris Doctorate in 2007 and later a Masters of Law degree in Trial Advocacy. She continues her education with studies in neuroscience and neurodivergence. Her interests include the role neuroscience plays in effective communication and courtroom presentation.



Natalie Kratzer
She/Her

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 Kruger, JD, CLC
She/Her

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.




Ms. Jennifer Lehman
She/Her

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.



Mrs. Karen Lehman
She/Her

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.



Mx. Miranda Lewis
University Professor
She/Her

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.




Damien Alan Lopez

No bio provided.




Our presenter is stepping out of the closet and into the spotlight, ready to share the next chapter of her vibrant journey. For years, Sabrina Love 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 now embraces openly: Sabrina Rose Love, a crossdresser who has found the courage to step 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. In “boy mode,” Sabrina is a respected professional, bringing years of expertise and a commitment to empowering others. When presenting as MTF, her talents, knowledge, and passion remain the same—delivering dynamic, inclusive, and confidence-building sessions. After two years presenting “Building and Maintaining a Crossdresser Wardrobe” at this conference, Sabrina now extends her story with a fresh, innovative topic: integrating technology into the journey of self-expression. This session, “Discover Your Style: Let Your AI Girlfriend Transform Your Look!”, explores how AI-powered tools can help anyone—MTF, nonbinary, or simply curious—experiment with makeup and fashion, build confidence, and discover new ways to express themselves. Sabrina is excited to share the lessons she’s learned, offering insights on curating a wardrobe that feels authentic, embracing technology, and maintaining the delicate balance of a crossdresser’s life.




Aisling MacDonald (she/her/ella) is a health equity strategist, program specialist, and statewide advocate working at the intersection of transgender wellness, trauma-informed care, and public health systems. At Garden State Equality, she designs and leads educational programs, community resiliency initiatives, and statewide training efforts for providers, schools, agencies, and LGBTQ+ communities. She also developed and implemented New Jersey’s largest intrastate research initiative focused on barriers to transgender healthcare, blending data, lived expertise, and community participation to illuminate gaps in access and equity. Aisling’s facilitation style integrates grounding-based practices, accessible public health concepts, and narrative-driven teaching to help participants understand how systemic stressors such as discrimination, medical gatekeeping, rural access barriers, and carceral involvement shape wellness at the body level. Her work spans curriculum design, coalition building, policy education, and storytelling across healthcare, housing, and social service systems. In addition to her programmatic work, Aisling serves on the New Jersey Department of Corrections State Prison Complex Board of Trustees and the Youth Correctional Institutional Complex Board of Trustees. These roles inform her intersectional approach to community health, emphasizing the importance of dignity, safety, and continuity of care for people navigating multiple, overlapping systems. Aisling is committed to building pathways where transgender and gender-expansive people, especially those with marginalized identities, can access affirming care, reclaim agency, and experience collective resilience.



Wayne Maines
Director of Health Safety, and Sustainability: R&DE at Stanford University
He/Him

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
She/Her

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 Nova 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.



Brynn McCandless
Seasoned Hair Stylist
They/Them

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.



Dr. Douglas McCracken
He/Him

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!).



Ms. Beth McKinley
Financial Advisor
She/Her

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 Certified Divorce Financial Analyst. She is a member of the Keystone Business Alliance, the LGBT Chamber of Commerce in Central PA. Beth's 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. She is also a trained Captain with the Silent Witness Peacekeeper Alliance (SWPA) an organization dedicated to providing a non-confrontational buffer between the LGBTQ+ community and those who would protest affirming events. 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.



Dr. Rachel McNeill
She/Her

Retired Chief of Big Data & Data Analytics Section, Economic Systems Division, at the International Monetary Fund. My section conducted the first proofs-of-concept for machine learning and rudimentary AI Projects within the IMF.

Prior to that, I served as a Project Manager at the IMF and for the US Federal Courts. I began my professional career as a programmer with Price Waterhouse's Law Firm Services Group, in support of forensic accounting engagements. Prior to that, I served in the US Army, in a Signal Corps role.

I am a reluctantly retired ultra-runner, having completed approximately 150 runs or races longer than 50K over the past 28 years, mostly in mountainous back-country. My body informed me recently that it's time to stop running. I still enjoy cycling, backpacking and hiking, though.

My wife and I share a love for the music of J.S. Bach and other, earlier composers, and also love slapstick Rossini and Mozart operas. We live in Frederick, MD, where Rachel is fully "out" to family and friends and is a regular part of our lives.

Dr. McNeill holds a Doctor of Management (DM) from the University of Maryland Global Campus and an MBA from Frostburg University. Her research areas include theories of the firm, transaction cost economics, and risk-mitigation & pricing.



Donna Miller
Donna's Hair Studio

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




Em Miller (They/Them) is a professional speaker & master's student at West Chester University in the Higher Education Policy & Student Affairs program. They frequently substitute teach for various Chester County school districts, & have experience in nonprofit management, communications, & research. This includes their role as the Assistant Festival Director of Lancaster Pride, & a board member for the LGBTQ+ Equality Alliance of Chester County. In their free time, Em enjoys visiting new cafes, writing, coding, & listening to NPR. They plan to eventually open a nonprofit coffee shop called "Mugs & More", in honor of their late best friend.




Allison is a recent graduate from Shippensburg University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. Allison started her affirming practitioner journey at Phoenix Counseling Services LLC. in January 2025, and is now working at the practice as a Pre-Licensed Counselor under the supervision of Dr. Tish Weikel. Phoenix Counseling Services LLC. is a private practice in rural Gettysburg, PA and Phoenix prides itself on being an affirmative counseling practice that provides quality care to LGBTQIAP+ populations.



Ms. Sarah Moore
Detective
She/Her

Sarah Moore (she/her) is a public-safety educator with decades of frontline experience in law enforcement, emergency medicine, and trauma-informed response. She comes to this work as a transgender woman who has spent much of her career examining how systems of authority—particularly policing and emergency response—can create harm when identity, power, and misunderstanding intersect. Sarah is clear-eyed about the fact that many transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse people have had negative, dismissive, or unsafe experiences with law enforcement and other institutions. Her work does not seek to excuse those harms or minimize lived experiences. Instead, she focuses on transparency, practical preparation, and harm reduction—sharing realistic information so people can make informed choices about their own safety. She has trained professionals and community members nationwide on de-escalation, trauma-informed communication, and victim-centered practices, and has collaborated extensively with advocacy organizations supporting survivors of violence. In these workshops, Sarah’s goal is to offer tools—not rules—and to support transgender people in navigating real-world situations with greater confidence, autonomy, and dignity while living authentically.



Miss Mia More
She/Her

Mia More is a professional makeup artist for CDI-NY with a background in Fine Arts from Stony Brook University. She’s been doing makeup at an early age since she discovered the joy of dressing and fem presentation. She had worked with fashion models and on weddings. Her passion is now helping transform cross dressers into their full fem persona. Mia completed her training at Wilfred Academy Cosmetology School in New York City.



Melissa Morton
She/Her

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.



Ms. Suzane Oliva
She/Her

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. 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 board 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. She hosts a Special Dinner at The Final Cut Steakhouse at the Hollywood Casino on Friday night of Keystone Conference. 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!



Dr. Dr. Gwen Patrone
She/Her

Dr Gwen is transgender, former US Marine SGT and entrepreneur and has helped over two million people from around the world. She's authored or co-authored many books including with Brian Tracy and Sir Richard Branson. Trans Truth was published on Amazon and Audible along with her children's book. Her passion is helping those in the cross dresser and transgender space find freedom from fear and dysphoria to find clarity and purpose and thus find their true self and be at peace with their decision.




Ms. Talon Pauling
She/Her

No bio provided.




Parent, Transwoman, Competitive Cyclist, aspiring writer, dog lover, advocate, volunteer, web site developer, and professional who works as a software engineer for a fortune 100 company. I've published 58 stories focusing on my life journey's and my odd medical experiences. Regularly brought in to speak at a couple of the medical colleges in the area on transgender medicine topics, as well other colleges in regard to transgender sports participation. I hold 4 patents in areas of computer networking and software status reporting. Work with teams to develop custom network, software deployment, and security solutions for the industrial control market. A member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), officer in SWE-Lehigh Valley, 3 Cycling teams, on the board of 1 of them, Co-facilitator of a Support Group - Bravehearts over NEPA, and active member within Diversity and LGBTQ+ focused groups within Honeywell.



Mrs. Suzie Petersen
She/Her

I am a lifelong part time crossdresser starting before my teens and now in my mid sixties. I have been married for 40+ years and while the dressing has caused significant up's and down's along the way, my wife is now accepting to some level, even to the point of us having been on several vacations together where I presented female the entire time. Like many in this community, I have developed over the years, from being scared of my own shadow to now comfortably going out in public as a female on my own, just doing every day things such as grocery shopping or going for a hike. Over the last couple of years, my confidence level has increased significantly even to where I now feel comfortable traveling by air, which I have done a number of times. I enjoy meeting others and have been to large events such as SCC in Atlanta and to Keystone. In addition, I also meet with friends around the country now and then for weekend or week long gatherings in girl mode. I love the experience of changing everything about me to look as much as a female as I possibly can. This includes of course the clothing, footwear and suitable padding, and also makeup and hair. I do not have the option of using my natural hair any more, so I have been wearing wigs for many years to complete the transformation, and I enjoy the many options that offers. Being an engineer by trade, and a curious and inventive type, I like exploring beyond just putting a wig on, and like to understand all the options including some way beyond the basics modifications of a wig to fit and look best.



Michelle Popkov
Ask Me My Pronouns!

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
They/Them

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 the Atlanta Comfort Conference, Diva Las Vegas, Keystone, Wildside and BeAll.




Paige Reed

Dr. Paige Reed is Program Director & Associate Professor of Criminal Justice, Affiliate Faculty in Sexuality & Gender Studies, and Director of LGBTQ+ Resources at Mary Baldwin University. They are a transgender educator and advocate with extensive experience in higher education, LGBTQ+ community engagement, and justice-centered work. Dr. Reed enjoys volunteering and giving back to the community, and currently serves on the board of the Shenandoah LGBTQ+ Center as well as on the Collaboratory for Justice Education powered by the Eastern State Center for Justice Education.



Ms. Sharon Rose
Helping Hand Team
She/Her

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.




Wendi Schirvar, PhD, LP, NCSP, is a Board-Certified and Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, and core faculty with the Graduate Medical Education program. As the first clinical psychologist hired by Beebe Healthcare, she concentrates on supporting and advancing the healthcare system’s Behavioral Health services through her expertise in Integrative Behavioral Health services. Dr. Schirvar earned her PhD in Educational Psychology and School Psychology at the University of Minnesota. She completed a post-doctoral clinical fellowship within the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at University of Minnesota Medical School. She is licensed in the state of Delaware as a Clinical Psychologist and a School Psychologist. She completed the Yale Certificate sponsored through Camp Rehoboth "LGBTQ-Affirmative CBT Training for Mental Health Providers" as well as the LGBTQAI+ CBT training through the American Psychological Association. She provides behavioral health care to persons in the LGBTQAI+ community through direct clinical services and precepting medical residents. She is personally invested in addressing disparities in health care for transgender persons. As a proud mom of three nonbinary children, two of whom are transgender, she has witnessed firsthand the difficulties they endure and the need for improved education and service delivery. Prior to joining Beebe Healthcare, Dr. Schirvar served as a pediatric Clinical Psychologist and chief operating officer at the Child and Family Behavioral Health Clinic in Lewes. There, she conducted psychological assessments and facilitated therapies in inpatient and outpatient hospitals, primary care clinics, acute and sub-acute psychiatric settings, veterans’ hospitals, forensic psychiatric facilities, and schools. She has worked on state and national policies, advocating for systematic change, with her research interests investigating social and emotional competencies for persons with high intelligence, efficient and cost-effective systems change, and building biopsychosocial collaborative partnerships for the simultaneous improvement of physical and mental well-being. Throughout her career, Dr. Schirvar’s research has been presented and published in numerous respectable industry publications.



Dr. Robyn Schlesinger
She/Her

Dr. Robyn Schlesinger (she/her) is an attorney who works extensively with the LGBTQI+ community, nonprofit and public sectors, and higher education. Robyn serves as a trustee of the Leonard-Litz LGTBQ+ Foundation and directs its TransPLUS Resource Center. She also consults with businesses, schools, and organizations to create inclusive workplaces and environments. Robyn serves on the Westchester County, New York LGBTQ Advisory Board, the Westchester County, NY, Police Reform Task Force, and the 9th Judicial District Access to Justice LGBTQ+ Subcommittee. She recently retired as the director of LGBTQIA+ programs, resources, innovation, development, and engagement (PRIDE) for Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS), the parent organization of Center Lane for LGBTQ+ Youth. Robyn’s career in nonprofit/higher education development and law has included senior management roles with the University of California, Berkeley, the San Diego Zoo, Singapore Management University, Westchester Community College, and Western Connecticut State University. Robyn was graduated from Harvard College with an AB cum laude, received her JD from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law, and her EdD from Manhattanville University.




Emma Schutte
She/Her

No bio provided.



Mrs. Jill Sherman
She/Her

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.



Tina Siders
Rise Hair Studio, Harrisburg, Owner & Master Stylist/L'ANZA Healing Artist
She/Her

"I believe that I work in the greatest profession in the world!" After 36+ 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



Ms. Lisa Smith
She/Her

S. Lisa Smith identifies as dual gender. She is a 76 year old retired attorney. She has volunteered at the local aquarium and is active in her synagogue. She has surfed for almost 60 years and hopes to be surfing for many more years. She has attended The Keystone Conference for 7 years as well as being a volunteer. At three previous Keystones she led discussions on being dual gender, which were well attended. She also led workshops at The Paradise Conference in Atlanta in 2022 and 2024, First Event in Boston in 2024, and Atlanta Comfort in 2024 and 2025. She also attended First Event in 2020 and was in the fashion show. She loves reaching out to cisgender folks and educating them about the huge transgender umbrella and is active on Facebook. She is a proud member of The Vanity Club, a service and social organization for trans women. She is fortunate to be married to the same woman for 50 years who is supportive and gives her space to be Lisa.



Mrs. Cassandra Storm
Co-Founder of CLK Events, Creator of My Feminine Heart, Keystone Conference Co-Chair, Retreat Yoga Leader & Wild Woman Project Circle Facilitator
She/Her

Meet Cassandra Storm—a visionary force whose work is transforming lives in LGBTQ+ communities. 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 third annual retreat October 2026.

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, working with individuals struggling with PTSD, particularly children and teens in foster care, guiding them through healing practices that nurture both the mind and body. Her yoga teaching dreams have become a reality as she now teaches yoga with horses. The experience of movement and flow in the shared space of freely moving horses has created a powerful healing opportunity with her students. Cass's classes create safe, powerful spaces for emotional release and self-discovery.

Whether leading workshops, retreats, sharing circles 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 the Keystone Conference and Letting Go in Lancaster.




MarySebastian is a queer, neurodivergent social worker who is passionate about animals, the environment, theater arts, and creating intentional communities that lift up marginalized individuals. They have worked for 20 years as an educator of all ages, primarily young children, and have a Masters in social work. As well, they currently are the executive director of Nothing About Us Without Us Creative Arts Therapies, a community bilding mental health organization focused on helping LGBYQ and neurodivergent individuals. MarySebastian lives in Highspire PA with their wife and two cats, Leonardo De Catrio, and Ishtar.



Tesla Taliaferro
Rainbow Rose Center President
They/Them

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.



Ms. Liz Tattersall
Certified Health and Life Coach
She/Her

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.



Lindsey Taub
Image Consultant/Stylist
She/Her

My commitment to become a master of my craft has led me on a journey from cobbling my own shoes, managing retail stores in NYC, and dressing the top 1%. My education at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City, combined with years of hands-on experience, has honed my eye for detail and quality while deepening my understanding of skin tones and spectrum colors. This led me to the world of image consulting, where I discovered my true calling. I have had the privilege of styling a diverse clientele, including men, women, and members of the transgender community. My work spans all shapes, sizes, and walks of life, reflecting my belief that great style is inclusive and accessible to everyone. My tenure at Jeffrey NYC and as the senior stylist for MM LaFleur in Washington, DC, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. The most rewarding aspect of my career is witnessing the transformative impact my styling has on my clients. This inspiration drives me to help curate a wardrobe that reflects personal style and empowers you to feel confident and authentic. Let’s embark on this journey together. Discover the power of personalized, high-end styling with Lindsey Taub.



Dr. James Thomas
The Voice Doctor
He/Him

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.




I am a lifelong transgender person, a victim of a highly abusive childhood, and an addict starting from age 10 but now in long-term recovery from addiction. I chose early in life to do whatever was needed to become a parent. I am college educated with a BS/CS. and an engineer through my entire career, now retired. I chose late in life to go into social and physical gender transition including HRT, GAS, and FFS over the past 7 years. I have been in anonymous, 12-Step recovery from alcoholism and sex addiction since 1989, almost half my life. I have been continuously abstinent from the use of alcohol, smoking tobacco, and sexual acting-out for 28 years now. I never used "drugs", legal or illegal. I almost lost my marriage, young children, and home because of my addictions. I lost my career but started a new and better career once in recovery from my addictions. I did lose my marriage, adult children, and home when I decided to go into gender transition and came out, but I am OK thanks to the support of fellow addicts in recovery, both cis and trans. Thru the decades I have been privileged to help other addicts move into and through recovery, and to speak to many different groups of non-addicts about recovery, and what recovery has done for me and other addicts I have known. I was a serious cave explorer before addiction took me down. I am a science and technology person, religiously Agnostic, but I nevertheless have a "God Place", that being Death Valley National Park. I have lived in Massachusetts since starting college, and I currently live in Boston with my two cats, and I have the great treasure of having some true friends. I remain anonymous on-line as a member of Alcoholics Anonymous and also Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous.




Dr. Brenda Vulpes
Professor
She/Her

Brenda Vulpes (pseudonym) is a professor of biology at a major state university. After earning a Ph.D. in genetics, she held research fellowships at two prestigious universities. She is the author of over 35 peer-reviewed research publications, focusing on the relationship between genotype and phenotype. This involves the molecular and physiological mechanisms that link particular sets of genes with the form and function of body structures, functions, and behaviors.



Mr. James W Walker VII
Certified Professional Electrolysist
He/Him

With over 25 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.



Mr. Max Waltman
He/Him

Max is a 28 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.



Ms. Lilia Weber
Lilia Weber, A-CSM, CSPO
She/Her

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.



Ms. Ambyr Williamson
She/Her

Stan Wojciechowski holds a total of 7 World Titles in Couples, ProAm, ProPro, and Line Dance. He currently teaches dance at PA Dancesport in Hershey, PA, and enjoys putting together and performing showcase routines for his students. Due to studio commitments and comfort, classes would be taught in male persona.




Kiki Wilson is currently an online communications professor at Fortis College, an allied health institution that supports nursing program students. She is a public speaker, activist, and advocate who goes to various universities, conventions, businesses, and organizations to promote her most recent research series, "Conscious Communication. Her series facilitates open discourse to create new and improve existing communication strategies regarding people of color, LGBTQ individuals, bullying in the workplace, conflict resolution, leadership, and organizational communication. Kiki has lived in a few different cities over the years and collaborated with independent theaters, filmmakers, and LGBTQ youth organizations. Her recognition of the challenges faced by women and other minorities, particularly in the field of education, demonstrates her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Kiki supports the causes of people of color, LGBTQ youth, and disabled people by combining her love of learning and the arts. She has even previously helped a few LGBTQ organizations and organizations that support people with disabilities implement inclusion programs. Lastly, Kiki was named the 2023 Blaque Out Magazine's activist of the year. She was also honored as a Distinguished Alumni of Finger Lakes Community College, where she studied, and inducted into the college's hall of fame for her exceptional activism and advocacy work.



Dr. Stephanie Wong
Ask Me My Pronouns!

Dr. Stephanie Wong is a board certified health care professional (medical oncologist and hematologist), trained at UCLA, and contributed to a major breast cancer discovery leading to many new therapies for a deadly form of breast cancer.

She was born in Los Angeles to Chinese imigrant parents who fled mainland China during the communist revolution. Like many of us, she discovered her transgender self at an early age and struggled to figure out who she is and how to live a successful life with career, family and very active social life. She lives a bi-gender lifestyle, sort of boy by day, girl by night. She is the main organizer of the online meetup group "Los Angeles (formerly Billings) TG Meetup" group with over 700 members and well over 1000 scheduled meetups over the past decade.

She currently practices medicine locally and also does travel medicine, while living a bigender lifestyle.



Natasha Xdress
Ask Me My Pronouns!

Natasha is a self-taught makeup artist and crossdresser from Queens for years until she decided to take a makeup school the summer 2025 to improve even more on her makeup skills. 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. She did New York Fashion week for couple of times in 2025. With more than 10K followers on Instagram (@natashaxdress), she has become an aspiring influencer, sharing tips on makeup and dressing up.





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