M Pease (they/them) is a doctoral student in counseling psychology at the University of Maryland, College Park. They hold a Master of Science in counseling psychology and Bachelor of Science with high honors in psychology and minors in Asian American studies and public leadership, both from UMD. Supported by a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship award, their research program broadly explores race, gender, and sexuality and how intersectional systems and experiences of oppression contribute to mental health disparities, especially for LGBTQ+ and Asian American communities, as well as how we can elevate experiences of strength and joy in marginalized communities. They currently serve as Director of Research and Assessment at Trans Maryland, supporting community-based research and policy advocacy efforts for trans communities in the State. Their research-based advocacy and teaching efforts both at UMD and beyond seek to promote social and organizational change, especially around promoting LGBTQIA+ well-being, ethnic studies, bereavement support, and culturally competent mental health services. Their research work has been featured in peer-reviewed journals such as the Journal of Counseling Psychology, Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, and Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology. They have experience in equity consulting with progressive organizations as well as speaking and training experience with healthcare agencies, educational institutions, professional organizations, and corporate settings. They are also a member of the American Psychological Association’s Advocacy Coordinating Committee and the 2025 Vice Chair of the Maryland Commission for LGBTQIA+ Affairs, becoming the first out trans person of color in leadership of a Maryland commission. M’s work seeks to bridge science with advocacy and activism efforts that tangibly improve conditions for marginalized communities in the pursuit of social justice, equity, decolonization, and liberation.