DEB ABBOTT
Director
dabbott@ucsc.edu

I have come 'full circle' at UCSC. I was an undergrad here during the 70's, majoring in biology and writing. I never stopped loving the campus and community, and except for a couple of brief forays out-of-town -I've been here in Santa Cruz ever since.

I worked in a variety of local non-profit organizations over the years and then went off and got my master's degree in clinical psychology. For the past fifteen years, I've had a private counseling practice. I've been an adjunct prof at a graduate psych program over in Santa Clara. I've published lots of my writing --- everything from scholarly articles to lesbian erotica to a book called From Wedded Wife to Lesbian Life.

In November 1997, I was offered the Center Director position, and I have been counting my lucky stars ever since. I love being back under the redwoods and working alongside all of the wonderful queer and queer-friendly folks on the UCSC campus. If we haven't had the chance to meet, or it's been awhile since we've been in touch, please stop by the center and say 'hi.' I'm busy, but not too busy for you!

Oh, and what do I do for fun? I love yoga, swimming, kayaking. I'm a consummate reader. I play a mean game of Scrabble. I love hanging out with Rebecca, my partner of ten years, and my wide circle of family and friends. It's a good life!

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

2003. Chosen by Assemblyman John Laird as "Woman of the Year" in the 27th Assembly District. Every year assemblymembers in the state select one woman from their district who has contributed significantly to their community to be “Woman of the Year” from that district. <Read More>

2003. Honored for her community activism by the Bay Area Municipal Elections Committee (BAYMEC), a four-county lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender political action group.

2003. Honored by UCSC Community for five years of service. <Read More>

2002. Porter College Alumnus of the Year Award.
Nominations for this award were based on exemplary and exceptional professional achievement, commitment to student advocacy and community activism, and a dedication to the betterment of the UCSC community.

1997. Appointed as Director of the GLBT Resource Center by Vice Chancellor Francisco Hernandez.

What folks are say about Deb:

"Very passionate, sweet, mellow open-minded lady. See her as kind-of a mother figure--friendly person."

"She voices out her concerns and thoughts in the most ideal manner possible."

"Very motherly, and caring. She would give you vitamin pills when you show signs of being sick."

"Deb has a lot of great ideas, encourages everyone to take care of themselves and laughs frequently."

"Creative and crafty -- Deb understands how to make a small budget last!"

"Incredibly motivating, she makes people feel welcome at the center."