Dr Michael Thomas joined Brunel as Programme Lead in Social Work in 2016, following a PhD at Cardiff University and a teaching and research post at the University of Kent. He's a proud Brunel alumnus and graduated from the MA in Social Work back in 2007.
In January 2019 Mike took on the role of Co-ordinator of the LGBT+ Staff Network. He says: "This has been a very rewarding part of my working life at Brunel. It has given me the opportunity to work with staff and students from across the university and beyond. Marching with colleagues and students at Pride in London this summer was an unforgettable experience."
"Our presence at Pride gives a clear public message that we are working to be an inclusive organisation. Making sure LGBT+ staff and students can be themselves at work and study is an important responsibility for all of us at Brunel. Far too many young people face homophobic and transphobic bullying at school and it's important this doesn't spill over into life at university."
The staff and student networks and our allies on campus are working to make sure Brunel is a place where people can be out about their sexuality and gender identity if that's what they choose.
Mike adds: "Wearing a rainbow lanyard is one way of showing our commitment to LGBT+ equality and there's lots more we are planning in the staff and student networks to make Brunel a more inclusive place."