Belonging @ KU Series

Belonging @ KU Series: Exploring Gender Identity  
Featuring Dr. Kara Nishimuta, Kyle Velte, & Beck Baumler 

Belonging @ KU is an educational programming series that is an interdisciplinary, multimodal opportunity for students, staff, and faculty to explore identity, culture, and the meaning of community. It showcases the innovation and excellence of University of Kansas scholars and practitioners, emphasizing KU’s commitment to fostering a dynamic community where each Jayhawk can thrive.  

The “Belonging @ KU: Exploring Gender Identity” event will feature valued members of the KU community, including Dr. Kara Nishimuta, a clinical assistant professor and licensed psychologist for the University of Kansas Medical Center Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences; Kyle Velte, Associate Dean and Professor of the University of Kansas School of Law; and Beck Baumler, KU Alum and doctoral candidate at the University of Texas at Austin. 

Date: Thursday, October 29th, 2026 
Time: 11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.  
Location: Virtual via Zoom 

During this virtual event, panelists will explore gender as a social identity and related experiences. Based on panelists’ expertise, participants will learn how interpersonal, organizational, legal, and structural factors affect belonging and well-being outcomes for individuals across the gender spectrum. Panelists will highlight practices for respecting gender identities in learning environments, clinical settings, and workplaces.   

This event is free and open to all KU and KU Medical Center students, learners, staff, faculty, and affiliates.  Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all KU-sponsored events. If you require reasonable accommodations in order to participate, please contact the Office of Civil Rights & Title IX by October 22nd, 2026, at belonging@ku.edu.