Paula Scanlan — Biography

Paula Scanlan is a prominent American figure known for her activism and presence on the internet. She was once a collegiate athlete at the University of Pennsylvania, competing in swimming and diving. Currently, she holds significant roles within the Independent Women’s Forum and Independent Women’s Voice, serving as a Stand with Women Spokeswoman and Advisor, and also manages New Jersey's Early Vote Action initiatives. Scanlan rose to national prominence when she, alongside Riley Gaines, who was then a swimmer for the University of Kentucky, publicly opposed the University of Pennsylvania's decision to permit Lia Thomas, a transgender woman, to compete on the women's swim team and utilize the women's locker facilities. These events contributed to a halt in federal funding for the University of Pennsylvania and ultimately resulted in Lia Thomas being prohibited from participating in women's competitive swimming. Paula Scanlan's heritage includes Irish and Taiwanese roots.