Student Affairs celebrates Curt McKay (‘88, MS, Library and Information Science), former director of the campus LGBT Resource Center, on his selection as an Honorary Grand Marshal for the 2025 Rockford Area Pride Parade.
McKay, chosen to represent the parade’s Remember theme, was recognized for his leadership during a pivotal period in the 2SLGBTQIA+ rights movement. As the first full-time director of Illinois’ LGBT Resource Center (now the Gender and Sexuality Resource Center), he guided the campus through a time of significant social change—expanding resources, advancing inclusive policies, and creating a welcoming environment for all students.
Under McKay’s direction, the center became a trusted space where members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and their allies could find support, affirmation, and connection. His efforts strengthened campus culture, fostered visibility, and helped ensure that students of all identities could thrive at Illinois.
“I want to give credit to all the others on campus who made my work possible—from the multitude of students to my colleagues and friends across Student Affairs,” McKay said.
“Specifically, I’d like to credit my bosses, Bill Riley and Leigh Estabrook, and Chancellor Richard Herman, who provided the funding allowing us to go full-time. Especially important was the work of my predecessors who were staffed as a ‘half-time equivalent’ office, and that of my amazing assistant director, Khristian Kemp-Delisser.”
The Rockford Area Pride Committee’s recognition honors McKay’s broad contributions to building a more inclusive society. His work stands as a testament to the power of advocacy, education, and community leadership.
Learn more about how to support the Gender and Sexuality Resource Center.
