"Schuyler was one of the best presenters that I've heard in 40 years in athletics. He connected with students in a way that allowed them to comfortably engage with a topic that can be difficult. His message is broader than gender. Among many other things, he speaks to the importance of being true to one's self and how to support with others who are dealing with personal issues. It was a fantastic hour."
Jeff Ward, Athletic Director, Brandeis University
Schuyler Bailar is the first transgender athlete to compete in any sport on an NCAA Division I men’s team. By 15, he was one of the nation’s top 20 15-year-old breaststroke swimmers. By 17, he and his relay team set a national age group record. In 2019, Schuyler finished 4 years swimming for Harvard University on what ended up being the 8th fastest men’s team in the nation and Harvard’s winningest team since 1961. Schuyler’s best swim secured him as Harvard’s 3rd fastest breast stroke swimmer for the 2018-2019 season and placed him in the top 15% of the NCAA overall.
Schuyler’s difficult choice – to transition while potentially giving up the prospect of being an NCAA Champion – was historic and timely. His story has appeared everywhere from The Washington Post to 60 Minutes and The Ellen Show.
MTV cited his story in their list of “2015’s Best Moments for the Trans Community” and Buzzfeed named him one of the “11 Transgender people who are shifting our views.”
Schuyler’s advocacy has earned him numerous prestigious awards including Harvard’s rarely awarded Director’s Award. See his full list of accolades here.
Schuyler is an engaging, energetic and uplifting speaker. He is comfortable in large and small settings and is experienced with a range of event formats.
"Schuyler is an amazing young man who's had a remarkable journey and shares his perspective and insight in a beautiful and non-confrontational way."
State Street Bank
Schuyler’s speaking experience spans elementary school classrooms to high school and college auditoriums of nearly 1000. He's spoken at nonprofits, corporations, and governments, including such hallmarks as USA Swimming, the NCAA, and the Massachusetts Senate. His talk has even been offered as continuing education by one national non-profit.
Schuyler’s story focuses on the universal challenges of trying to "fit-in" in our media-rich world with integrity and authenticity. He explains his struggles and why he ultimately chose to put many potential accolades at risk to be true to himself. Because he has lived his life from many perspectives – woman, Korean American, mixed-race, gay, trans, “Harvard white guy” – his story resonates with young and old, from all walks of life.
Schuyler loves to talk to students, educators, and parents.School visits are the centerpiece of his advocacy.The highlight of Schuyler's visits are the Q&A
sessions when he answers any and all questions in a comfortable, inviting style that creates a learning conversation for all.
A typical school visit includes some combination of:
"Schuyler was a HUGE success. He far exceeded my expectations. His authenticity, good humor and use of story was so incredibly effective. He also did an amazing job of honestly and directly answering the audience’s questions."
Jay Rapp, National Association of Independent Schools NAIS Annual Meeting
"Moving and inspiration! Everyone can take something away from it!"
Capital One, Global D&I Event
Schuyler’s talk appeals to broad audiences at the corporate level from diversity and inclusion groups to teams looking for an inspirational motivational speaker. His journey is one of truth, authenticity and overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges.
A typical event might include:
Schuyler has a unique connection with student/athletes. He speaks to topics ranging from body image, eating disorders, LGBTQ inclusion and the exhilaration and challenges of breaking national records and competing at the National and NCAA D1 level.
For Private events
Contact us at speaking@pinkmantaray.com to plan your in-person or online event with Schuyler.
Limited budget? No problem!
To accommodate all budgets and audience sizes, Schuyler hosts public workshops that are low in cost. He also always has scholarship spots available. You can find more information about upcoming events here.