Crim Dell Association: William & Mary LGBTQ+ Alumni

History

The name "Crim Dell Association" honors the Crim Dell Bridge, a symbol unique to William & Mary that represents the values of inclusion, diversity and love. This bridge has traditionally been a place where love is expressed, making it an ideal representation of our association's values.

Our association builds on the foundational work led by the Crim Dell Leadership Circle from 2019 to 2022. Thanks to their efforts, we proudly join other diverse affinity and identity groups within the William & Mary Alumni Association.

The Crim Dell Association emerged from the legacy of William and Mary Gay and Lesbian Alumni Inc. (GALA), which began in 1986 amid the worldwide AIDS pandemic. GALA was an immediate success, advocating for the rights and concerns of sexual minorities at William & Mary. Under the leadership of the late Stephen Snell ’66, GALA became one of the largest and best-funded collegiate alumni groups, contributing significantly to AIDS prevention programs, spousal benefits and other equity issues.

Over the decades, GALA's terminology evolved from "Gay and Lesbian" to the more inclusive LGBTQ+. This evolution led to the rebranding of the group as W&M LGBTQ+ Alumni and, eventually, to the Crim Dell Association in December 2020. This new name better represents our broader goals and inclusive values, and will stand the test of time as more queer identities and experiences join our ranks.

It's been a long journey from GALA’s beginnings to where we now stand with pride, hand in hand with other communities who have made William & Mary a better place for future generations.