The University of Portland presents an author discussion, panel, book signing and reception for Against the Current: Father Tom Oddo and the New American Catholic by author and UP Education Masters Alum Tyler Bieber. Please join us to learn about the rich and passionate history of former UP President Father Tom Oddo and celebrate the new work from Tyler Bieber.
Father Thomas Oddo (1944–1989)—known simply as “Father Tom”—pioneered LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Catholic Church. In the wake of Stonewall and the Second Vatican Council, he paved the way for those seeking a space where faith and identity could coexist. He co-founded DignityUSA at just 29 years old, positioning himself as a key figure in the fight for civil rights. By 38, he became President of the University of Portland, a rising academic star poised to transform higher education. A tragic car accident cut his life short at 45, but his story and his legacy continue to impact the course of the Church today.
In Against the Current Tyler Bieber offers a compelling biography based on intimate interviews, personal archives, and never-before-seen documents. The book explores encounters with celebrities, politicians, and Pope John Paul II while diving into themes of hope, resilience, and loss. It reveals a forgotten chapter of American history, a story of courage within the confines of tradition, and a meditation on redemption, identity, and the future of Catholicism. For readers of LGBTQ+ history, modern Catholicism, and untold stories of activism, this legacy is waiting to be uncovered.
TYLER BIEBER is a queer higher education professional based in Portland, OR. He has held roles at Clark College, National University of Natural Medicine, Linfield University School of Nursing, and Oregon School of Massage. He is currently the Assistant Registrar at Willamette University’s Pacific Northwest College of Art. Tyler holds a B.A. in Liberal Arts & Sciences from The Evergreen State College and an M.A. in Higher Education & Student Affairs from the University of Portland.
Free copies of the book are available to UP students, faculty, and staff. Register for your free copy at COMPLIMENTARY BOOK. To purchase Against the Current visit UNENCUMBERED PRESS.
This event is hosted in partnership with UP Alumni Relations, and The Center for Gender and Sexuality, and the Garaventa Center to celebrate the intersection of UP history, leadership, ministry, and joy.
Free and open to all. For more information, please contact the Garaventa Center at: 503-943-7702 or garaventa@up.edu. ADA compliant event.
University of Portland
5000 N. Willamette Blvd.,
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