community
She wasn't looking for love when she swiped right for the very first time. She found it anyway.
By Greg Owen at LGBTQ Nation
· June 26, 2026
· 4 min read
It started with a swipe. "In November of 2023, my friend took my phone out of my hands, downloaded the Her app, and created my online profile," says Jennelle Kariotis, a fortysomething assistant professor of Psychology at Northeastern University in Boston. The mother of two, twice-divorced from men,
Key takeaway "In November of 2023, my friend took my phone out of my hands, downloaded the Her app, and created my online profile," says Jennelle Kariotis, a fortysomething assistant professor of Psychology at Northeastern University in Boston.
Why this matters
Jennelle Kariotis's story highlights the complexities of online dating for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those with prior relationships and children. Her experience with the Her app, a platform designed for queer women, demonstrates the potential for meaningful connections in a digital space. The fact that Jennelle and Becca took their time getting to know each other, sharing personal stories and interests, suggests that a thoughtful approach to online dating can lead to deeper relationships. Their introduction to each other's social circles, including Jennelle's daughters, also underscores the importance of considering family and community in the dating process. As LGBTQ+ individuals navigate the often-challenging world of online dating, stories like Jennelle's offer a hopeful perspective on the possibility of finding love and building a life with a partner who accepts and supports all aspects of one's identity. The couple's participation in Pride celebrations also emphasizes the significance of shared cultural experiences in their relationship.
About this story
Original reporting by LGBTQ Nation . LGBTQ News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: community ·
Published: June 26, 2026 ·
Source: LGBTQ Nation ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? It started with a swipe. "In November of 2023, my friend took my phone out of my hands, downloaded the Her app, and created my online profile," says Jennelle Kariotis, a fortysomething assistant professor of Psychology at Northeastern University in Boston. The mother of two, twice-divorced from men,
When was this published? This article was first published on June 26, 2026 by LGBTQ Nation and curated for LGBTQ News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Greg Owen at LGBTQ Nation. To learn more about how LGBTQ News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more community coverage from LGBTQ News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .