Muses

Chase T. M. Anderson:

First and foremost, I would like to thank the kids, teenagers, young adults, and families that I've been fortunate to work with in Muses. Collaborating with each of you has been a privilege and a gift. Years ago when I shared that there was the possibility of this program being created and those of you I was working with in fellowship were so enthusiastically on board, you helped this program happen. Each of you inspires me every day; this program is eternally for you.

I'd also like to acknowledge the pivotal role that UCSF and The Department of Psychiatry has played in helping support my career and this program. Being a Black, queer, child and adolescent psychiatrist in academia is still exceedingly rare, and to be at a university where I can be open about my own mental illnesses and health, speak openly about discrimination in medicine and America, be with the kids and families I love dearly, and exist as my full self has been life-saving. This thanks especially includes Drs. Jennifer Ly and Brittany Bryant, who, when they learned about the idea for this program were immediately on-board, and have been colleagues and friends I once only was able to dream of working with.

I am deeply grateful for my sister, mom, dad, relatives, mentors, friends, and colleagues. Each of you has helped me become the physician and person I am proud to be today, and that has come through you embodying yourselves and your values in life-changing ways. You all put so much of yourselves into those around you to better our society and heal hearts and minds. I am fortunate that we are part of each other's lives.

Years ago, I began to meet people who saved my life, who showed me I could exist happily as a Black, queer person in America. These friends and family who became chosen family created space where I experienced authentic and continual love, learned to share my love for others openly, and learned that my dreams of a peaceful world are seen and treasured. This program is named after our group nickname that started in college: The Muses.

Thus, to the Muses; Resonance, Serenity, Friendship, Wisdom, Fantasy, Trust, Drive, Listener, Truth, Passion, Emotion, Strength, Innocence, Optimism, Freedom, Beauty, Courage, Song, Growth, Protector, Mentor, Love, Peace, Shine, Fate, Faith, Hope, Lady Justice, Advocate, Confidence, Kindness, Determination, Unity, Champion, Bravery, and Leader, thank you for being chosen family and constant reminders of the world we can and will have through community.

This program was created to honor each of you, and I love you all.

Brittany Bryant:

I am deeply grateful to my family and my children, whose love, support, and unwavering belief in me serve as my daily motivation to continue this work. Your presence reminds me why it is so important to create spaces where all children feel valued, supported, and seen.

To my mentors—thank you for modeling what it means to advocate fiercely for minoritized populations. Your guidance and example have shown me the power of using our voices to create meaningful change and to open doors for those who have been historically excluded.

To those who doubted me, thank you. Your skepticism became the spark that ignited my determination. Your disbelief has been the fuel propelling me forward, pushing me to achieve what you thought was impossible. I carry that fire with me every day as I continue this work.

This work is not mine alone—it is the culmination of the love, lessons, and challenges that have shaped me. I am profoundly thankful for everyone who has walked with me on this journey.

Jennifer Ly:

A huge thank you goes out to Dr. Chase Anderson and Dr. Brittany Bryant for co-creating this space for our patients to be their full selves and shine. I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to my husband, family, friends, mentors, colleagues, and trainees for keeping me grounded and focused on this important work.

Finally, I’d like to thank all of the children, youth, and families I’ve had the privilege of working with — you do so much by showing up every week, leaning into your vulnerability, learning new skills, and allowing me to support you in achieving all that you deserve and more!

Brady D. Hanshaw:

First and foremost, I want to thank my family on Buzzard Rock in West Virginia—my parents, Stacy and Jesse, and all those who have surrounded me with love from the very beginning: my grandparents, Mawmaw Kitty, Mawmaw Madeline, and Pawpaw Dale, my Aunt Connie, and my cousin Tara. Their sacrifices made it possible for me to be here today, and their unwavering love is my greatest strength. I am also deeply grateful for my sisters, Bayli and Josi, whose support means the world to me.

To my friends, Ben and Rachel—you were the first to truly see me and love me for who I am: an unapologetically gay man. You taught me that the love I create for myself and others is boundless, and that queerness is not just an identity but a force for radical joy and transformation. Because of you, I have built a family and support system that fills my life with purpose and gratitude every single day, and I have the strength to advocate for the wider LGBTQ+ community.

Finally, to the LGBTQ+ mentors and faculty who have guided me, including Drs. Lina Rosengren-Hovee, Chase T.M. Anderson, Alex Keuroghlian, Jennifer Potter and Jack Turban—you have shown me the power of authenticity in medicine. Through your example, I have learned that love, acceptance, and queerness are not just personal truths but forces that can shape the future of healthcare. Thank you for lighting the way.