GMHC Congratulates ESPA on their Selection of Nathan Schaefer as their New Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contacts:
Krishna Stone | 212.367.1016

Gay Men's Health Crisis has been incredibly fortunate to have Nathan Schaefer serve as Director of Public Policy since 2008. During his tenure, he has achieved great success such as spearheading the fight to lift the HIV travel and immigration ban, which allowed the International AIDS Conference to be held in the United States in 2012 for the first time in 20 years; and coalescing the coalition behind the new NYS HIV Testing law, legislation that will save lives by alerting people to their HIV status earlier and linking them to medical care and support services. He has also been at the forefront of advocacy to revise Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines which prohibit gay and bisexual men from ever donating blood, building a diverse coalition of LGBT organizations, hemophilia groups and other groups concerned with blood safety and fairness, to push for much needed reform.

GMHC is confident that Nathan will do amazing work at the Empire State Pride Agenda. They are smart to have chosen him, lucky to have him in the position and GMHC's loss will be New York State's gain.

"I have proudly watched Nathan grow and evolve during his nearly five year tenure as our Director of Public Policy, states Marjorie J. Hill, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of GMHC. "Nathan is a strong leader, passionate health advocate and innovative thinker. While sad to see him go, I am just thrilled that he will lead the Pride Agenda."

"My years at GMHC helped me personally grow and professionally develop in profound ways," said Nathan Schaefer. "GMHC will always have a special place in my heart.  I look forward to maintaining strong relationships with clients, volunteers and staff at GMHC."

GMHC looks forward to partnering with Nathan and the Pride Agenda on our ongoing work to improve the lives of people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, and to fight for LGBT equality and social justice. Nathan's first official day at the Empire State Pride Agenda will be October 15.  To view his introductory video, click here.

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About GMHC
GMHC is a not-for-profit, volunteer-supported and community-based organization committed to national leadership in the fight against AIDS.  We provide prevention and care services to men, women and families that are living with, or affected by, HIV/AIDS in New York City.  We advocate for scientific, evidence-based public health solutions for hundreds of thousands worldwide.