My name and role:
Bronagh Kelly– LGBTQIA+ Students Representative
Can you give some information about your role?
My role is to represent the views of all students on LGBTQIA+ matters at The Open University, and to advocate for the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community within the University’s decision-making process. My role is also to help make the student experience of distance-learning better for everyone, as well as to promote visibility of support for LGBTQIA+ students.
What made you want to be part of our Student Leadership Team?
I spent almost a decade as a youth worker with an LGBTQIA+ organisation in Northern Ireland, so when I saw this role it felt like a natural next step. I have a good understanding of what support looks like when it works well and where the common gaps tend to be, and I wanted to put that to use somewhere relevant.
What are you hoping to achieve in the 2026–2028 term?
Mainly I want to make sure LGBTQIA+ students can easily find the support that is available to them, because right now that is not always straightforward to everyone. I also want to do some work around helping tutors feel more confident supporting LGBTQIA+ students online. Beyond that, I am keen to get involved in University events throughout the year, and to make sure LGBTQIA+ students feel part of things.
Tell us some fun facts about yourself!
I am really into space, specifically galaxies and how they formed. I also recently rediscovered my childhood Pokémon collection, which has taken up more of my time than I would like to admit.
When I have some free time, I like to travel and explore museums. I'm currently reading I am Legend and playing Séance at Blackwood Manor but I am always open for some new recommendations!
And finally – what do you love about the OU?
I already graduated from the OU, went off and did an MSc somewhere else, but continued studying individual modules because I love the OU studying experience! I am currently enrolled on M347 Mathematical Statistics. The flexibility makes great quality university education possible for people like me who could not do it any other way, and as someone who has studied in a few different places now, that is something the OU does genuinely well.
How to contact me:
Email me
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