Svet was born in Armenia and raised in Bowling Green, Kentucky, before moving to Columbus in 2016 and enrolling in The Ohio State University’s history PhD program, where the focus of their studies was gender and sexuality in Russia and the Soviet Union. During her time at OSU, Svet conducted archival research in Russia for her dissertation, titled “There is No Sex in the USSR”: Sex, Soviet Identity, and Glasnost, 1986-1991.
In Russia, Svet connected with grassroots activists and archivists who maintained a private community archive preserving Russia’s LGBTQ+ history. While there, Svet gained an appreciation for the important work of grassroots community organizing and robust LGBTQ+ communities around the world.
After completing her PhD in 2023, Svet joined the Ohio History Connection to grow the Gay Ohio History Initiative and work with communities around Ohio to create 10 new Ohio Historical Markers to celebrate the state’s queer stories. Svet has also worked at Kaleidoscope Youth Center, where she focused on strategic communications and advocacy initiatives.
In 2026, Svet joined the Stonewall Columbus team, where she is the Executive Operations Manager. They are excited to bring their skills and experience to the organization and continue learning and connecting.
In her free time, Svet enjoys Sci-Fi, spending time in nature, and being surrounded by friends and family.
