THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

Now leading workshops, presentations, and trainings on Diversity & Inclusion topics in the workplace, Stephanie also has over 40 years of professional experience working with and within Fortune 100 companies. Recently retired from her position as Corporate Vice President at New York Life Insurance Company, Battaglino is well versed in the ways of corporate America and has become a leader in the conversation surrounding workplace equality for transgender and gender non-conforming people.

"I wrote this book with one singular thought: that by telling my story, and what I learned along the way, it could help people whether they're trans-identified or not. I simply felt that by sharing what I experienced on the journey to embracing my authentic self it could, in its own unique way, serve to expand the narrative on trans inclusion in the workplace. But something unexpected happened. After I came out, I found myself involved in another fight for equality — gender equality. It's this intersection of gender identity and gender inequality which creates a perspective that is singularly my own", Battaglino says.

Battaglino's book shines a light on one of the biggest issues that LGBTQ people face today. It is an unfortunate reality of our times that LGBTQ people often feel as though they must make a choice between coming out in the workplace and assuring their job security.

During this challenging and paradoxical time where the rights and protections for LGBTQ people are threatened and we also see history made with the appointment of out transgender individuals in the Biden administration and increasing visibility of trans youth and their supportive families, Stephanie's book offers her wisdom and encouragement based on her life experience.

"I've learned over the years that as a trans person the greatest weapon we have in our battle for equality and inclusion is our stories, for they possess immense power. Their collective strength can and does create the change we seek in society. And at its heart, that is what this book is: a collection of stories that I hope can change hearts and minds — and contribute to making our world a more thoughtful and loving place."

Reflections from Both Sides of the Glass Ceiling, published by L'Oste Vineyard Press, is set to be released on May 11th, and is available at stephaniebattaglino.com/reflections-from-both-sides-of-the-glass-ceiling/ .