Women's and Gender Studies

John Erickson

Director of Public Affairs, Planned Parenthood Los Angeles
UWO ’09 English major, Women’s Studies minor

UWO Outstanding Young Alumni Award Honoree, 2015

What do you do during a typical day at work?

As a public affairs professional, my work varies day to day. One day I am working on advocating for policies at the local, state, and federal levels that advance the issue of women’s reproductive healthcare and then another day I could be organizing actions to coincide with our policy advocacy. Whether I’m working with our community partners, political leaders, or helping oversee my team’s day-to-day work, I hone my focus on making sure I advance the rights of women and girls (and men) who rely on the services Planned Parenthood offers every day.

Why did you choose UWO?

I was a transfer student and chose UWO because I wanted to be part of their prestigious men’s volleyball program. At my previous school, I was the victim of a hate crime and as a result wanted to find community at a school that accepted me for who I am as well as helped advance my educational goals. UWO was that school and I became the first openly gay student athlete on campus and am so proud of all the work and advocacy I accomplished while I was a student.

How has Women’s and Gender Studies influenced your career path?

As a man in feminism, I focus my work on making sure I identify my privilege in the work that I engage in on a daily basis. Women’s and Gender Studies has influenced not only my academic work but also my advocacy and professional lives. I am proud to say I use my degrees every day because all of our careers benefit when we view them through the lens of equality and justice for all.

Do you have any advice you’d like to share with current students?

Never give up. Advocacy and education are hard but believing that you’re on the right path is even harder. Believe in your ability to change the world because I guarantee that you can (and will)!