M Valle Pease is a doctoral student in counseling psychology at the University of Maryland, College Park and Director of Research and Assessment at Trans Maryland. Supported by a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship award, their research program broadly explores race, gender, and sexuality, how systems of oppression contribute to mental health disparities, and experiences of strength and joy in community. They have engaged in research-based advocacy and teaching efforts to promote social and organizational change, especially around promoting trans rights, culturally competent mental health services, and broader intersectional social justice. In the pursuit of equity, decolonization, and liberation, M’s work seeks to bridge science with advocacy and activism efforts that tangibly improve conditions for marginalized communities.