Name: Gina Upshaw
City, State: Philadelphia, PA
Age: 41
Profession: Director of Climate & Culture, School District of Philadelphia
Instagram: __gigi1913__
In a few words, how would you describe yourself?
I am ambitious, independent, hard working, reliable and fun-loving.
Your favorite hangout spots.
I love to travel, hangout at happy hours with a beautiful view of the skyline and brunch with my wife. I also love hanging out right in our kitchen listening to music and cooking with our two awesome teenagers.
Favorite guilty pleasure.
Ordering from Amazon, scrolling on Pintrest and watching Love & Hip Hop. I also love finding new recipes for our favorite foods and making them at home. Del Frisco’s has nothing on my crab cake!
Favorite quote.
“Wanna fly, you got to give up the shit that weighs you down.” -Toni Morrison (Song of Solomon)
Who is your biggest influence? And why?
Honestly, my wife is my biggest influence. She pushes me out of my comfort zone, calls me on my bullshit and is always there for me no matter what. She is my partner in all things, and as cliché as it may be she is my best friend. She listens without judgment, asks thought provoking questions and is super supportive. She is the yin to my yang.
Favorite event.
Happy hour! Also, whenever Beyoncé is performing is my favorite kind of event. I love live performances.
Do you have any regrets in life?
I only regret not cherishing sacred moments longer. Life moves at such a fast pace so I only regret not being fully present in the moments that would last a lifetime.
Favorite lesbian/queer celebrity.
Janelle Monáe hands down, musically she is amazing and I can watch her on screen everyday.
Any fun facts or anything else you want our readers to know?
I legit love being home with fresh flowers, candles and nice chilled cocktail in hand with my wife snuggled up, watching a good movie. Currently, I am working on my dissertation for my doctoral program and love researching.
