Meet Our Team

Robert Marx (they/them) — Director

Robert Marx (they/them) is an Associate Professor of Child and Adolescent Development in the Lurie College of Education at San Jose State University. Their research examines how family, school, and community supports contribute to the well-being of queer and trans youth, empowering them to live authentic, fulfilling lives. Robert collaborates with LGBTQIA+ community groups, schools and school districts, and community organizations to create queer-affirming spaces and improve their policies and practices. They live in the Bay Area with their lovely husband and the world’s cutest dog, a poodle-mix named Poppy.  A walking encyclopedia of The Golden Girls, Frasier, and Murder, She Wrote facts, Robert would be an asset to any trivia team—or any discussion of television made for older women.

Danny Castillo (they/them) — Program Coordinator 

Danny Castillo (they/them) is an Interdisciplinary Master's student at San Jose State University, specializing in queer anthropology and child development. They bring valuable expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion to their work at Queer Hope Institute, informed by their research in queer theory and LGBTQIA+ youth wellbeing. Danny also serves as an Associate Management Analyst at the Santa Clara County Executive Office of LGBTQ Affairs, working to advance LGBTQ+ rights and resources. They hold a Cum Laude Bachelor's in Child and Adolescent Development, with a focus on Early Childhood Education. In their free time, Danny enjoys creative pursuits like crocheting and songwriting, as well as gaming and spending time with their partner and cats.

Ellery Carlson (he/him) — Program Coordinator 

Ellery Carlson (he/him) is an undergraduate and soon to be Master’s student at San Jose State University, studying Child and Adolescent Development in the pre-service teaching track. He brings experience with social-emotional development, tracing the relationship between this healthy development and academic careers. Ellery is also engaged in research on the impacts of Gender Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) in schools. In his free time, he enjoys being active, reading, and spending time with his partner and pugs. He can also be found exploring new coffee shops and getting ice cream.