MEMORIAL

SCHOLARSHIPS

PFLAG Denver Memorial Scholarships honor the legacy of our trailblazing leaders who built a lifelong foundation of support, advocacy, and love for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families in the Denver community. These scholarships celebrate the enduring impact of those who came before us, empowering a new generation of students to carry forward the spirit of inclusion, education, and hope. Through this program, PFLAG Denver continues its mission by investing in tomorrow’s changemakers and honoring the lives that helped shape our path.

NANCY KEENE

Nancy Keene’s involvement in PFLAG was deeply rooted in her life’s purpose of loving and serving God. With a degree in Christian education, she was uniquely equipped for this role—not only in her ability to reference scripture but also in her unwavering commitment to compassion and advocacy. When she first joined PFLAG, the atmosphere was one of celebration; she frequented dance clubs, befriended countless gay men, and embraced the joy of the community. However, the AIDS crisis soon shifted the landscape, and Mom’s leadership within PFLAG became a vital source of strength during that turbulent time. Everything she did was infused with her profound love for humanity, and I was endlessly proud of her ability to advocate for me—and others—in ways I couldn’t yet do for myself. I believe this is true of many PFLAG parents, whose love and support often speak louder than their children’s own voices.

Mom’s calming, stabilizing presence was a gift. Her wisdom and warmth,\ made her a trusted figure for hurting parents and heartbroken LGBTQ+ individuals. She became a fixture in the gay community of the 1980s and early ‘90s, not just as an ally but as a beacon of hope. Whether she was dancing with gay men in clubs or offering solace to grieving families, her kindness left a lasting impact. My sister Meredith and I have always been immensely proud of her dedication to PFLAG, a testament to her boundless love and her belief in a more inclusive world.

Elinor & Tom Lewallen

Elinor and Tom Lewallen were tireless champions for justice, inclusion, and love—values they lived every day in their family, faith, and activism. After both of their sons came out as gay, they transformed personal struggle into public action, becoming leading voices in Denver’s PFLAG chapter and across the country. Elinor served as National PFLAG President in the 1980s and Tom as a regional director, with both dedicating decades to Helpline calls, chapter meetings, Pride marches, and national conventions. They offered thousands of LGBTQ+ people and their families something rare and life-changing: the deep, steady love of chosen family. Their own faith community saw their bold witness as they challenged the church to be truly inclusive, and the city of Denver celebrated their legacy with civic and community awards.

But beyond their impressive service, Elinor and Tom were generous, kind, and profoundly human. They knew that justice started in living rooms and church pews, through quiet conversations and unwavering presence. They believed that love could transform fear, and they helped generations of LGBTQ+ people believe they were lovable and worthy. This scholarship honors students who carry forward their example—those who face adversity with courage, embrace diversity with joy, and believe that change begins with showing up, listening deeply, and loving fiercely.

Shirley & Moe Weaver

Shirley and Moe Weaver were pillars of the PFLAG Denver community from its very beginning, remembered as fierce, loving parents who helped lay the foundation of the chapter’s work in advocacy and support. Shirley served as the chapter’s first Treasurer, offering steady guidance and dedication as the organization found its footing. Moe, described as one of PFLAG Denver’s “parent co-founders” alongside national leader Betty Fairchild, gave voice to a generation of fathers learning to support their LGBTQ+ children with openness and pride. Together, the Weavers modeled a bold new way of parenting: leading with compassion, challenging injustice, and helping others feel less alone.

The Weavers' influence stretched far beyond administrative roles—they embodied the soul of the organization. Their presence in support groups, public outreach, and personal relationships brought comfort and clarity to countless families navigating unfamiliar terrain. In a time when acceptance was far from guaranteed, Shirley and Moe stood in love and solidarity, not only with their own child but with an entire community. This scholarship honors students who reflect the Weavers' legacy of fierce familial love, bridge-building, and the kind of advocacy that starts at home and ripples out into the world.

KAREN JOHNSON

Karen Johnson was a beacon of love, leadership, and fierce advocacy in Denver’s LGBTQ+ community. After her son came out in 1997, she quickly immersed herself in PFLAG, finding strength through support and becoming a lifeline for countless families on their own journeys. She volunteered tirelessly—facilitating support groups for new parents, serving on the PFLAG Board, and becoming chapter president from 2002 to 2004. Karen believed deeply in taking love and support into the community, building authentic connections in LGBTQ+ spaces, fundraising with drag performers, and creating safe, affirming spaces where others felt unconditionally accepted—often for the first time. Her warmth was magnetic; she made strangers feel like family and helped transform fear into pride.

Karen’s legacy extended beyond her years at PFLAG. She volunteered with Project Angel Heart and worked for the U.S. Postal Service, where she made history by hiring the region’s first transgender employee. Known for her open heart, joyful humor, and unwavering support, she was honored with the Swan Award in 2005, a reflection of how deeply she touched those around her. Karen believed in action rooted in love—and her spirit lives on in those who extend that same love to others. This scholarship honors students who lead with empathy, create inclusive communities, and continue Karen’s legacy of changing lives through compassion, courage, and connection.