“I ended up coming out and it was the best decision I ever made in my life.” Champion professional skier Gus Kenworthy told Pfizer colleagues.

In honor of LGBTQ Pride Month, the OPEN (Out Pfizer Employee Network) Colleague Resource Group welcomed Gus Kenworthy for a conversation reflecting on his personal journey toward coming out.

Moderated by Laurie Olson, Executive Vice Presient, Strategy & Commericial Operations, and Executive Sponsor of OPEN, Kenworthy discussed how he decided to come out after experiencing the struggle of finding happiness while “in the closet.” After coming out, Kenworthy had the most successful season of his career, and the best season of any free skier. He attributes this success to being able to compete without inhibition.

Years later, Kenworthy qualified for the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Games, and alongside figure skater Adam Rippon, was the first openly gay US male Winter Games athlete. He felt fulfilled despite not winning a medal, because he was able to compete authentically and represent the LGBTQ community.

The theme of the event was “Energize with Pride,” and was followed by a colleague meet and greet.

 

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