Innovation Through Intersectionality: Shaping What's Next for #AllOfUs

As we celebrate Pride Month 2026, Coupa’s Illuminate Employee Resource Group honors the vibrant LGBTQ+ and ally community that makes us stronger together. This year, we aren't just celebrating Pride; we are championing and encouraging authenticity.

For many in the LGBTQ+ community, their identities are intersectional.  When it comes to living authentically, intersectionality isn't just a buzzword—it is the active understanding that our identities (race, gender, background, and who we love) do not exist in silos. They overlap and compound, creating the unique, nuanced lived experiences that define who we are. When we honor the full spectrum of these identities, we don't just "accept" difference; we unlock the unique perspectives that drive creative problem-solving and true belonging.

From our community stewardship to our professional growth, every story shared here is a testament to the fact that when we bring our whole selves to work, we push boundaries and build a more inclusive future for everyone.

For me, leadership is about fostering the psychological safety that allows us to integrate our multifaceted identities into our professional lives. When I was starting out, a simple moment—our then Chief People Officer celebrating my creative hair color—didn't just make me feel 'accepted.' It validated that at Coupa, my personal expression of identity wasn't a distraction, but a vital part of who I am. That small act of recognition signaled that my entire identity, with all its unique layers, was not only welcome but celebrated, setting a standard for how we champion intersectionality by honoring the visible and invisible aspects of each other's journey.

The following stories from Coupanians illustrate this power—showing how living authentically isn't just a personal journey, but a collective contribution to the culture we are building together.  

Inclusion Through Authenticity: Lee Reemsnyder

For Lee Reemsnyder in our Sales organization, embracing intersectionality means redefining what professionalism looks like by removing the need to hide.

“I feel comfortable at Coupa bringing my authentic self to work,” Lee shares. “I don't have to stumble over my words when I say things like ‘my husband’ or feel a need to mask while at work.”

That sense of psychological safety was established early in his Coupa journey. Before Lee even flew to Chicago for his 1-on-1 training with his manager, he was asked to take a Coupa Colors assessment to understand his working style. Once in person, that assessment snowballed into deep conversations about his goals and passions. “At the end of the 3-day intensive training, I felt seen,” Lee reflects. “I mean this with all sincerity when I say across the board, in every department, Coupa has good people.”

Outside of work, Lee’s Pride celebrations are vibrant and community-focused. His favorite Pride memory? Seeing Mariah Carey headline LA Pride in 2023, delivering a speech on equality that had the crowd in tears before launching into Emotions.

For Lee, building community also means paving the way for others. “I always try to extend a hand, open a door, or make a connection for the next generation whenever I can. This was done for me several times and made a huge impact. It's important for us all to lift each other up and remember there's enough room for everyone on the ride.”

His advice for early-career LGBTQ+ professionals navigating the corporate world?

“People might surprise you, IN A GOOD WAY! People respect and appreciate authenticity, and when you show up as yourself, others will too.”

Community Through Mentorship: Lexie Guccione

For Lexie Guccione in Customer Success, intersectionality and belonging are deeply tied to community building and generational support. Having been with Coupa for over eight years, she sees the sheer existence of the Illuminate ERG as a powerful catalyst for connection. "I love that Coupa is willing to create resources for employees in the LGBTQ+ community and give us a chance to connect with allies to work toward a common goal of inclusion and opportunity," she shares.

Coming from a conservative upbringing, building a "chosen family" was instrumental to her personal growth. Today, she focuses her energy on paving the way for others. "Now that I’m older, it’s been amazing to give back to younger members of the community through peer mentorship," Lexie explains. "My friend group spans generations, and I love the circular economy of knowledge and lived experience we share!"

Her advice for early-career professionals navigating the corporate landscape? There is no rush. "It’s okay if it takes time! You don’t have to pressure yourself to immediately disclose everything about your personal life as soon as you start at a new company. Give yourself the grace and time to feel comfortable."

Crucially, she turns that advice toward leadership as well: "Make sure you’re creating a space for employees where they can be their whole self and not worry about unfavorable experiences." At Coupa, Lexie considers it an honor to help build exactly that kind of inclusive culture for the next generation.

Sr Associate Digital Customer Success Juliana Arango shares how she felt comfortable sharing her authentic self with her manager, Lexie Guccione. Watch the video.

The journeys shared here are a reminder that innovation and community thrive when we are free to be ourselves. When diverse perspectives and intersecting identities are not just welcomed, but amplified, we all move forward together.

At Coupa, we celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and our allies who continue to challenge conventions, push boundaries, and inspire us to build a better, more inclusive future.

Check out our Belonging page to learn more about Illuminate and our other employee resource groups.