Empower a Trans Winemaker's Journey

Many of you know that for 25 years I worked in theatre, but during the pandemic, I took the time to re-evaluate my life and where I wanted to see my future. The decision to transition from theatre-making to wine-making wasn't easy, but ultimately I have never been happier than when my hands are purple and my back hurts after a 14-hour day. This experience has taken me to Oregon, back to Chicago, back to Oregon, and now, moving to Washington to work full-time in the cellar. Along the way, I've been studying, learning, and reading all I can about winemaking, and I'm excited to say that I've now been accepted into Washington State University's Enology Certificate Program for 2025 and the Viticulture Certificate Program in 2026. These two programs will help elevate my knowledge, establish my place in the winemaking industry, and legitimize the work I've already done learning on the job.

Acceptance into the program has come as a surprise to me, and I was not financially prepared to drop the tuition on top of also having to move up to Washington and start a new life in a new place. I looked into grants and unfortunately, I don't qualify. And with the state of our country, I am reticent to take out any more student loans. With Washington being one of the most expensive places to live, I am asking my friends and family to help me raise half the tuition necessary for the two programs. I'm not asking for others to foot the whole bill, but to meet me halfway.

With this education, I will be in a better place to launch my own label in a few years, and of course, you'll all be the first to know about it. As a trans person, there are very few of us in the winemaking world, and it's also my hope that I will inspire other trans people to learn the craft and carve out space for us. Eventually, I'd like to create a scholarship fund that will give grants to trans people for wine education. Any amount received over the amount of the fundraiser will be put directly into creating this scholarship fund.

I believe wine is a part of our culture, and I aim to craft wine that is as warm and welcoming as a family gathering, and as bold and beautiful as the landscape of the Pacific Northwest. Thank you for any help you can offer!