Erin Cross, most recent director of Penn’s LGBT Center, has been named to Pennsylvania’s 2023 Pride Power 100 list, which lists the most influential figures in the state’s LGBTQ+ community. This year’s Pride 100 List was compiled by City & State staff and freelance writer Jeremy Rodriguez.

Dr. Cross has advocated for and expanded LGBTQ+ campus support systems for more than 20 years. She is known for her innovative partnerships on- and off-campus, working across constituencies, educational outreach and consulting, advocacy for all-gender restrooms, and creating a welcoming space where people feel they belong. Most recently, she secured a $2 million anonymous gift to create a residency program to bring prominent leaders to Penn’s campus.

Dr. Cross left her position on June 5 after more than two decades at Penn.