The Shady Side Academy Senior School Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) club welcomed Schuyler Bailar, the first transgender NCAA Division 1 men's athlete, to campus on Monday, May 21, 2018. Bailar attended community assembly, where he spoke about his childhood, swimming career and coming to peace with his transgender identity. A Q&A with the audience followed. Bailar enjoyed lunch with members of the GSA, attended class, and met with faculty and administration to discuss maintaining an open and inclusive school environment for all students.

Bailar is the first openly transgender athlete to compete in any sport on an NCAA Division 1 men's team. By 17, he set a national age group record in breast stroke. Shuyler's difficult choice - transitioning while potentially giving up the prospect of being an NCAA champion - was historic and timely.

Bailar is a sought-after speaker, having spoken at more than 80 schools, the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Annual Conference, state governments, NCAA committees and USA Swimming. He has been featured in The Washington Post and on 60 Minutes and The Ellen Show.

Bailar's visit served as the kickoff to GSA Pride Week at the Senior School.