2007 POINT SCHOLARS

Derrick Clifton

Northwestern University

Psychology and Sociology

Born in Chicago, IL, Derrick is a product of a family composed of many Baptist ministers and devout religious individuals. His academic and personal journey led him to Walter Payton College Prep, a highly selective, nationally recognized Chicago high school and an environment he assumed would be more accepting of his queer identity.

Facing harassment and ostracism from students during his freshman year, Derrick was unpleasantly surprised. It was not long before he dedicated himself to not only rise above the mounting challenges he faced, but also to leave behind a positive legacy for other LGBT students.

Capitalizing on his strengths as a Novice Team Coach and Captain of his high school’s nationally competitive debate team, he took a leadership role in his high school’s Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) and helped organize a Day of Silence, LGBT social gatherings and educational screenings of LGBT documentaries. Derrick also successfully led an awareness campaign against the FDA’s ban on blood donation for males sexually active with other males. He finds comfort in knowing his high school is a much better environment for LGBT students than when he arrived, and that he now has the support of a few relatives.

Derrick currently attends Northwestern University as an undergraduate in Evanston, IL. He intends to utilize his academic background for careers in either law or psychotherapy, and plans to maintain involvement with organizations committed to transforming the social and legal landscape for the LGBT community.