Charlotte Patterson Honored as Outstanding Virginian in Two Different Ways

Equality Virginia, a statewide lobbying organization for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, has named psychology professor Charlotte Patterson in the University of Virginia’s College of Arts & Sciences one of its 2013 “OUTstanding” Virginians.

Patterson, who directs U.Va.’s Women, Gender & Sexuality Program, was among seven honorees recognized at a dinner in Richmond in April.

The organization’s website describes her research on the psychology of sexual orientation, especially her research on the emotional health of children in same-sex households, as “groundbreaking.”

Patterson’s research “has dispelled the misconception that heterosexual parents are a prerequisite for children to grow up happy and well-adjusted. Her work has contributed to precedent-setting court decisions and has been cited in amicus briefs for two current Supreme Court cases concerning marriage equality,” the website says.

Equality Virginia also extended its annual “OUTstanding” Virginian recognition to allies for the first time this year to recognize their contributions made on behalf of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. For information about the honorees and the event, click here.

Media Contact

Anne E. Bromley

Office of University Communications