Logo with three horizontal lines, the words 'Lift + Love' with a rainbow-colored heart replacing the 'o' in 'Love', and the tagline 'Strengthening Latter-Day Saint LGBTQ Individuals & Families'.

ALEX DOBBERFUHL

LIVING LIBRARY PRESENTER

Alexander was born and raised as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He came out to his parents in seventh grade and to the rest of his siblings by his freshman year of high school. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder around third grade, Alexander has spent much of his life learning to navigate the world through his own unique perspective.
After spending most of his life in Washington, Alexander moved to Utah to pursue his education in American Sign Language interpreting. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Deaf Studies with an emphasis in interpreting before serving as a missionary for the Church. As an openly gay missionary,

Alexander experienced the unique challenges and complexities of navigating his sexual orientation alongside his faith and commitment to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. His experience offered him a distinct perspective on the relationship between faith, identity, and belonging, as well as opportunities to advocate for greater understanding within his religious community.

Having completed his missionary service, Alexander continues to reflect on and share his experiences at the intersection of faith and LGBTQ+ identity. He hopes to pursue a master’s degree in school counseling, with the goal of supporting Deaf students and creating safe, affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals. Through both his personal experiences and future career, Alexander hopes to help others feel seen, understood, and accepted as they navigate their own identities.

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