June 12, 2023 | By Nick Pfost
Spectrum Center is thrilled to welcome Tristan “TK” Morton as associate director. Ze joins the center having most recently served as director of the LGBTQIA Resource Center at the University of California, Davis. Following a competitive national search, Morton returns to zir home state of Michigan to take over the role vacated by Jesse Beal after their selection as director in December 2022.
“I’m delighted Tristan has joined the Spectrum Center in this critical role,” said Beal. “Ze brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to our community, and I look forward to leading Spectrum Center with zir as my partner.”
Morton is a Black, trans, queer educator; advocate; and joy creator. Ze brings experience in student affairs; social justice; and supporting LGBTQIA2S+ and marginalized staff, faculty, students, and alumni. Ze centers queer and trans BIPOC joy, laughter, and advocacy, making sure that all spaces are accessible, centering the love and care of the community. Before directing the center at UC Davis, ze worked at several other institutions across the country, bringing a variety of experiences to support LGBTQIA+ folks. Ze has also held leadership positions with the Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals and the Midwest Institute for Sexuality and Gender Diversity. Morton has a bachelor’s degree in women’s and gender studies from Eastern Michigan University and a master’s in higher education administration from Stony Brook University.
In zir role, Morton will provide key leadership of the center’s work across major strategic, organizational, and administrative areas, including assessment, budget, programming, and education.