Diana Simon

Prof. Diana Simon is a Professor at the Faculty of Design, University of Florida. Her research focuses on marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals, exploring mental health, sociopolitical resilience, and cultural identity. She collaborates with institutions like the University of Tennessee and Arizona State University on projects addressing Latinx transgender communities and Black transmasculine experiences. Her ¡Chévere! Lab leads initiatives on collective esteem, activism, and identity development through expressive writing interventions and community narratives. Prof. Simon mentors doctoral and undergraduate students in projects analyzing anti-Black racism, pandemic impacts, and cultural values influencing sexual orientation disclosure. She emphasizes translational research, presentations at symposiums, and media engagements to amplify community voices.

Research Highlights:

• Expressive Writing Intervention Study for Trans Latinx Immigrants
• Sociopolitical Factors Affecting Latinx Transgender Well-being
• Black Transmasculine Community Support During COVID-19
• Black Trans Youth Activists' Well-being Amid Systemic Racism
• Bi+/Plurisexual Latinx Identity and Family Dynamics

Lab & Mentorship: The ¡Chévere! Lab under Prof. Simon’s leadership addresses intersectional challenges faced by marginalized groups, fostering collaborative research and advocacy. Her mentorship spans doctoral and undergraduate students, guiding projects that blend qualitative analysis with community-driven insights.