Data show that representation matters for underrepresented populations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Representation increases a sense of belonging [1,2,3,4], retention [1], and success [4,5,6]. It shows trainees what is possible and what is welcomed within their chosen profession. However, sexual and gender minority [e.g., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and the many other affirmative ways people choose to self-identify (LGBTQ+)] visibility relies on self-disclosure. Unfortunately, ~30–50% of LGBTQ+ people in STEM [7] or in non-STEM workplaces [8] report that they are not out at work, meaning they are not open at work about their identity, with 35% reporting that they feel compelled to lie at work to conceal their identity. The high rates of nondisclosure are likely connected to LGBTQ+ people in STEM reporting more experiences of harassment, social isolation, career devaluation, depression, insomnia, and minor health issues compared to cisgender (i.e., their gender identity aligns with birth sex), heterosexual peers [9, 10].

Professional academic societies have taken initial steps to capture LGBTQ+ representation among their attendees. The American College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ACNP) is one such professional society, made up of neuropsychopharmacologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and neuroscientists. The ACNP annual conference features leading research from preclinical and clinical investigators to promote a high-quality translational experience for members and nonmembers. Membership within ACNP is divided into different tiers that generally correspond to career seniority and achievements, including associate members, members, fellows, and emeritus. Membership is competitive with an acceptance rate of about 50% in 2020 as there are only a few open membership slots per year. Diversity within ACNP membership has been discussed, especially pertaining to male/female gender and racial diversity. In 2020, ACNP added a voluntary LGBTQ+ affiliation question to its demographic profile (i.e., Do you identify as LGBTQ+?), which is available to all members and nonmembers. People that chose to update their profile and respond could answer Yes, No, or Prefer not to answer. All other demographic questions were mandatory. These data were de-identified prior to being shared.

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