People

Julie Supple, MA, LCSW Chief Programs and Impact Officer

Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers

In her roles as TPAN's Director of Client Services, Julie brings over 30 years of clinical and administrative experience working in both the non-profit and corporate worlds.

Julie Supple came to TPAN in June of 2011. Prior to arriving at TPAN, Julie worked at Better Existence with HIV (BEHIV); she began her career there as a therapist for 6 years before being promoted to the Director of Programs position. She started a private practice in 1995, and also worked at Charter Hospital as the Director of Outpatient Services.  Her clinical expertise is in couples therapy, LGBTQ focused counseling, family systems, trauma, substance abuse, and she has extensive work with intensive outpatient programs, foster care, youth, children and residential-based treatment.

Having been in the field of HIV care for 15 years, Julie continues to be passionate about TPAN's mission and making sure that clients who are HIV-positive, live a  life free of stigma and receive quality care that focuses on holistic health.

Email: j.supple@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x240

Abbie Brinker Sr. Support Services Coordinator

Abbie is a medical case manager at TPAN. Originally from Philadelphia, she studied fine art at Temple University before moving to Chicago in 2018 to get her master's in art therapy and counseling from Adler University. She is a lover of all things art and mental health-related, and tries to incorporate that into her work as a case manager. When she's not working, which is rare, she enjoys spending time at home with her cat Oliver. She also enjoys traveling, hiking, kayaking, snowboarding, and crochet.

Andrew Kain Miller Manager of Events, Volunteers and Community Engagement

Pronouns: He/Him/They/Them

As the manager of Events, I am responsible for the logistical planning and production of Ride for Life Chicago, Barlesque, Dining Out For Life and more. I also oversee community outreach initiatives and volunteer training and programming.

Originally from Indiana, I have been producing events, theatre, nightlife and more in Chicago for twenty years. I enjoy house music, film and performing in theatrical productions. 

773-989-9400 ex:230
A.miller@tpan.com

Christina Joly, MS, LCPC Psychosocial Therapist

Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I provide individual therapy for TPAN's clients. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations including the LGBTQIA+ community and those living with or impacted by HIV/AIDS, treating a variety of issues including substance abuse, life changes, interpersonal concerns, anxiety, depression and PTSD. I specialize in trauma informed care and have training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems) which are useful to address trauma and many other issues. I use Mindful Self-Compassion as a basis for all therapy as a way to ground, be present and create a judgement-free space of kindness, compassion, and openness where clients can feel safe to set goals, explore, process, heal and grow.

I joined TPAN in 2015 just as I finished my Masters in Counseling at National Louis University in Chicago. Prior to joining TPAN, I worked in business for 13 years before being called toward something more meaningful.

I participated in TPAN’s Ride for Life from 2015-2017, riding 200 miles each year to raise money for the important services provided by TPAN.

In my free time I enjoy running, meditating and being a cat mom.

Email: c.joly@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x208

Denise Crouch Human Resources Coordinator and Distribution Manager, Positively Aware

Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers

As the Benefits & Administrative Coordinator and Distribution Manager, I am responsible for the on-boarding of new employees, payroll, benefit administration, employee maintenance, and office management. I also establish the accounts for individuals and organizations in Raisers Edge for Positively Aware subscribers and handle mail request for the magazine.

Prior to joining TPAN in 2015, I worked at Revere Electric for 19 years. I began as a receptionist and advanced to Human Resources Assistant.

I don't have friends in low places, but I am a huge Garth Brooks and country music fan!  

Email: d.crouch@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x233

Enid Vazquez Associate Editor, Positively Aware

Preferred pronouns: She, her, hers

As associate editor of TPAN’s national HIV treatment magazine, Positively Aware, Enid Vázquez writes primarily about drug development and medical care. She also covers other aspects of the epidemic, such as psychosocial needs, legal issues, and personal profiles.

Before joining TPAN in 1995, Enid worked as a freelance or staff writer for a variety of publications, including The Hartford Courant.

Email: e.vazquez@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x261

Greg Nelson Finance Coordinator

Photo courtesy of Ryl World Photography

Preferred Pronouns:   He/Him/His

Born and raised in the Chicagoland area, I became a hair stylist back in March 2011.  Since then I have had the opportunity to work with some wonderful clients and run my own business.   I received my AS from Mesa Community College in Beauty and Wellness - Business, Entrepreneurialism and Management.   I plan to transfer that to Arizona State to get my bachelors degree, but first I will be going for my state license to teach cosmetology.   I was looking for a part time job and luckily I found TPAN.  I like knowing that in some small way, I am helping make a difference in people's lives.  Working here, I have a greater understanding of just how important TPAN's services are to the community and to be a part of such an organization is truly humbling.   

Interesting facts about me - there are none!  No, there actually are a few.   I was an animal science/pre-vet major at U of Illinois and worked at a canine training center before going to cosmetology school.  The other interesting fact is that I perform as a drag queen.  I have held many titles and I was 1st runner up to Miss Minnesota and competed at Miss Gay USofA in Dallas, TX.  

James Graves Lead Project Specialist

Preferred Pronouns:  He/Him/His

Hey guys, your Lead Project Specialist, James here (he/him), or you can call me by last name as most do: Graves. Born and raised in Detroit Mi—a native midwesterner who can’t say goodbye without having at least one additional conversation. However, it’s because of those random-yet-engaging encounters that would eventually flourish into something that holds a deeper meaning in understanding and compassion within myself. It’s also one of the reasons why I love doing what I do: communicating with LGBTQ community; tackling topics that often go left unsaid in black communities. At the end of the day, there’s nothing like fostering a safe space for the unapologetic, the vulnerable, the amiable, and the inspirational individuals seeking to d be heard.

Jocelyn Gorokhovsky RPh, LSW  HOPE Behavioral Counselor

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

In 2018, I began as a Case Management intern with TPAN while at UIC.  Having earned my Bachelors of Pharmacy from Drake University and my Masters In Social Work (Concentration in mental health) from UIC, my role at TPAN grew from student intern to  licensed social worker.   My expertise include LGBTQIA community assistance as well as those living with HIV/AIDS and anyone wanting to change his or her relationship with the use of substances.  Having worked as a pharmacist in community pharmacies that support HIV/AIDS patients gave me the tools necessary for my role at TPAN.  

As a HOPE Team behavioral counselor, I greet clients for their intake, as well as co-facilitate support groups and provide individual therapy;  both short and long term.   My therapist  approach is client centered and LGBTQIA affirming, focusing  on harm reduction and strength based and trauma informed.  I want our space to be safe, supportive, and  judgment free so you can heal, develop insight, and become empowered.    

Fun Fact: Jocelyn is a big fan of Brené Brown, Ted Lasso and is always open to podcast suggestions.

Phone: 773.989.9400 x296
email: j.gorokhovsky@tpan.com

Joshua Gutierrez Sr Prevention Manager

[Any/All Pronouns]

Hi I am Joshua, Prevention and Sexual Health is my JAM!!! My goal is for each person to feel safe, heard and shown grace each time you come into TPAN for Prevention Services. I also like to make it fun and educational. Testing and sharing can be scary and intimidating, but at TPAN you will be met with respect, conversation and tools to assist you in making the best decisions for your Sexual Wellness. I am originally from Texas, served in the Army, lived in Germany for almost 20 years and now call Chicago home. My favorite thing about Chicago are the people and great neighborhoods!!! Come visit us at TPAN to get tested or inquire about all the other amazing services TPAN offers!!! 

Email: j.gutierrez@tpan.com

Tel:773-989-9400 Ext 269

Leigh Ferguson Front Desk Receptionist

Preferred Pronouns:  She/Her/Hers

I fled the cold, snow and free health care of Toronto to come to Chicago - for more snow and cold and much more expensive health care.

I wanted to volunteer, initially, because: a) I like it; and, b), it was what I was allowed to do legally.

 I ran into our Client Services Director in the grocery store and she said “come work at TPAN, it’s a great organization”.  I couldn’t say no, so I came and did a few hours a week at the front desk.  I got to help out with the events, Chicago Takes Off and Ride for Life and I have been lucky enough to be an Ambassador for Dining Out For Life for many years. 

In 2015, I became an employee, still at the front desk, where I know all the clients by name. The staff works very hard to deliver services and I see the change that occurs in the clients. It is rewarding.

In a prior life I was a probation officer with a degree in sociology/criminology and, later, an insurance broker  focused on disability and catastrophic insurance.

Michael Jeske Manager of Medical Case Management

Preferred Pronouns: He/Him/His

As a Medical Case Manager, I help individual’s access affordable medical care and medications through periodic needs assessments, adherence counseling, and goal-oriented care planning. My goal is to help clients reach a high level of self-sufficiency & self-advocacy when they access medical care. I joined TPAN as an intern in 2016 and was hired as staff in 2017. Through my work at TPAN, I discovered my passion to work with the LGBTQ+ community and other folx impacted by HIV. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, video games, running, and spending time with my cat, Jimbo.

Email: m.jeske@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x251

Rick Guasco Acting Editor-in-Chief, Positively Aware

Preferred pronouns: He/Him/His

Rick Guasco, 57, is the creative director of Positively Aware, the HIV treatment and health magazine published by TPAN. A native Chicagoan, he studied Journalism at Columbia College, graduating in 1985. In 1992, he discovered he was living with HIV when he developed Kaposi sarcoma, which the CDC categorized at the time as an “end-stage AIDS-defining illness.” He successfully underwent interferon treatment through a clinical trial. He first served as art director of Positively Aware in the mid-1990s, and then returned to the magazine in 2010. He created A Day with HIV, the magazine’s annual anti-stigma campaign. In 2016, he was diagnosed with anal cancer, and successfully underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatment in 2018. As an activist, he says, “we live by example so that people living with HIV are not alone.” He posts a picture every day of his daily HIV medication to his social media (@rickguasco). He credits his family, friends, and his faith for his continued good health. A science fiction fan (particularly “Star Trek” and “Doctor Who”), Rick likes to quote a Vulcan saying: “We are here to serve.”

Email: artdirector@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x262