
Kara Eastman Chief Executive Officer

Kara Eastman Chief Executive Officer
Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers
I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from Loyola University of Chicago and have over twenty-five years of experience leading social service and nonprofit organizations and in public service. In 2006, I started Omaha Healthy Kids Alliance and transformed OHKA from a small, start-up lead poisoning prevention organization to a nationally recognized, award-winning nonprofit, raising more than $13 million to support green, safe, and healthy housing in Omaha. In 2014, I was elected to the Board of Governors of Metropolitan Community College in Omaha, named one of the top ten community colleges in the country. In 2018 and 2020, I won the Democratic Nomination for the US House of Representatives for the 2nd District of Nebraska where I raised more money than any candidate in the history of the state. I am the current President of the We Have the People PAC and a board member of the Backroads PAC. I have been a board member of the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands and served as an appointed member of the Mayor of Omaha’s Fair Housing Advisory Board. I have one daughter, Sabina, a student at Pitzer College in California with my husband Scott Eastman, a full professor of history at Creighton University. I am originally from Chicago and in my free time I spend time with my family, cooking, practicing yoga, writing, and traveling.
Jeff Berry Chief Editorial Officer; Editor of Positively Aware
Jeff Berry Chief Editorial Officer; Editor of Positively Aware
Preferred pronouns: He/Him/His
As Director of Publications, Jeff has served as Editor-in-Chief of Positively Aware, the leading not-for-profit HIV/AIDS magazine in the country, since 2005, overseeing production, advertising, and distribution of the publication. Jeff is also a member of a small national working group which leads The Reunion Project, a program for HIV long-term survivors that is sponsored by TPAN.
Jeff was a successful Chicago club DJ during the 80s and 90s at a number of popular gay nightclubs including Dugan's Bistro, Paradise, Bistro Too, and Circuit, and was awarded Gay Chicago's 1990 DJ of the Year.
Email: j.berry@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x260

Lorraine Hayes, MA Chief Development Officer

Lorraine Hayes, MA Chief Development Officer
Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Lorraine Hayes (Associate Director, Development): As the Associate Director of Development, Lorraine Hayes is responsible for the submission of institutional grants, grant reporting, and individual donor cultivations solicitations. She oversees advertising sales for TPAN’s Positively Aware magazine. In addition, Lorraine works closely with event staff to develop fundraising strategies, and with the CEO to implement individual giving appeals and other revenue-generating projects. She serves as the staff liaison for TPAN's Board Fundraising Committee.
Lorraine came to TPAN in 2009 as a Case Manager, using her background in social work to work directly with clients. In 2012, she transitioned to TPAN's development staff, but remains committed to the agency's direct service programming. Prior to TPAN, Lorraine managed the Star School Leadership Conference, a federal grant from the Department of Education at Northeastern Illinois University.
Email: l.hayes@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x236

Julie Supple, MA, LCSW Chief Programs and Impact Officer

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

London Woolman Chief Administrative Officer

London Woolman Chief Administrative Officer
Preferred pronouns: She, her, hers
As the Chief Administrative Officer, I oversee the organization’s finance, human resources, business and organizational development. I formerly served as the Director of Operations and Interim Executive Director at Nebraska AIDS Project and bring knowledge of HIV and AIDS Service Organizations to my role.
In addition to my work in nonprofit management, I have also worked in corporate shared services models, owned and operated a small retail business, and worked as a nonprofit and small business development consultant.
In my spare time, you can find me exploring Chicago (on foot!), listening to Prince albums, and watching reruns
Email: l.woolman@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x236
Abbie Brinker
Abbie Brinker
I’m Abbie and I am one of the medical case managers at TPAN. Originally from Philadelphia, I studied fine art at Temple University, and then moved to Chicago in 2018 to get my masters in art therapy and counseling from Adler University. I am a lover of all things art and mental health related, and I try to incorporate that in my work as a case manager. When I’m not working, which is rare, I enjoy spending time at home with my cat Oliver. I also enjoy traveling, hiking, kayaking, snowboarding, and crochet.

Adrienne Pierce Manager of Housing and Retention

Adrienne Pierce Manager of Housing and Retention
Preferred pronouns: She, her, hers
As TPAN's Manager of Housing and Retention, Adrienne oversees the agency's retention and housing program. Working with her housing and retention team to ensure individuals living with HIV/AIDs find and maintain safe, stable and affordable housing, and get connected to healthcare and other services available to them.
Adrienne joined TPAN in December 2017. Adrienne enjoys volunteering her time in the community. Adrienne received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. She completed her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Argosy University, Chicago.
Email: a.pierce@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x313

Andrew Kain Miller Manager of Events, Volunteers and Community Engagement

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

Beverly Brock LCPC, CADC Mental Health Therapist

Beverly Brock LCPC, CADC Mental Health Therapist

Carmen Earsery CHW Medical Case Manager/Peer Advocate

Carmen Earsery CHW Medical Case Manager/Peer Advocate
Preferred Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
I have spent 15 years volunteering and working for those living with or impacted by a loved one with HIV/AIDS. I spent many of those years down in Springfield, lobbying for quality care for those affected by HIV/AIDS. My dedication to the community and my passion for and belief in what I do, is the motivation that I bring to TPAN to ensure my clients receive quality care.

Christina Joly, MS, LCPC Psychosocial Therapist

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

Curtis Hardman Youth Case Manager

Curtis Hardman Youth Case Manager
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Curtis is currently finishing up his final year of studies at NEIU, majoring in social work, with the goal to complete his MSW at UIC in 2021. Curtis is thrilled to be TPAN's new Youth Case Manager and learning from all of the incredible staff here. Curtis shares some of his personal passions: "When I'm not studying, I love curling up to a good book or attempting to bake many of the elaborate dishes on my favorite baking show, "The Great British Bake Off.""
P: 773-989-9400
c.hardman@tpan.com

Curtis Sanders, BA Community Engagement Specialist, Positively Aging

Curtis Sanders, BA Community Engagement Specialist, Positively Aging
email: c.sanders@tpan.com
direct: (773) 632-5532
mobile: (312) 622-3448
general: (773) 989-9400
Dayna Flores, MA, LCPC Mental Health Services Manager
Dayna Flores, MA, LCPC Mental Health Services Manager
Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Dayna provides individual, couples, and group therapy for TPAN's clients. She specializes in working with multi-culturally diverse gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, transgender, and gender non-conforming individuals, as well as HIV/AIDS impacted clients. Her areas of interest include trauma informed care, identity formation, substance use, and sexual health and wellness.
Dayna joined TPAN in 2009 and helped to design, implement, and manage Our Voices Advocating Health (OVAH!), TPAN's first federally funded youth program. OVAH! was an integrated pyscho-educational HIV/STI and substance abuse prevention program that combined the delivery of group-level intervention, community outreach and education, HIV testing, and monthly events geared towards creating a safe, empowering and supportive space for black MSM and trans youth between the ages of 18-24. Dayna holds a Bachelor of Science in Cultural Anthropology from Loyola University Chicago and an Master's in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Email: d.flores@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x283
Denise Crouch Human Resources Coordinator and Distribution Manager, Positively Aware
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

Emily Rubin Medical Case Manager

Emily Rubin Medical Case Manager
Preferred pronouns: She, her, hers
As a Ryan White Medical Case Manager, Emily address' individual's needs and goals, and collaborates with individuals to access to medical care and treatment, by enrolling individuals in: ADAP/PAP, applying for benefits, accessing Emergency Financial Assistance, mental health and substance use services, transportation and food. Emily's main goal is to empower clients to elevate their sense of self by supporting them in achieving self-sufficiency and self-advocacy.
Outside of work Emily enjoys spending time in the outdoors- especially rock climbing.
Email: E.Rubin@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x205
Enid Vazquez Associate Editor, Positively Aware
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

Erin Conley, MA, LPC EPIC Behavioral Counselor & Lifeline Prevention Counselor

Erin Conley, MA, LPC EPIC Behavioral Counselor & Lifeline Prevention Counselor
Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers
As a mental Health and HIV Prevention Counselor with TPAN since 2017, I provide behavioral counseling for the EPIC program as well as a prevention counseling for the Lifeline program. My work with the EPIC program includes facilitating groups as well as providing long-term individual therapy to program participants. My work with the Lifeline program involves providing short-term, goal oriented counseling to Lifeline program participants. Long-term therapy is available for Lifeline participants as well, if it is necessary for the overall wellness of the client. As a member of the prevention department, I also do HIV and HCV testing as well as provide support to those accessing our syringe exchange program.
I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and completed my clinical practicum and internship with the Center on Halsted, where I provided individual and group therapy. Combining my schooling with my passion for what I do, allows me to support my clients from a strength-based, trauma-informed, and person-centered place. My commitment to anyone that walks through TPAN’s door is that I will provide compassion and understanding to each and every one of you!
Email: e.conley@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x280

Greg Nelson Reception/Website management

Greg Nelson Reception/Website management
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
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.

Jeffery J. Pulliam, CADC Youth Program Manager

Jeffery J. Pulliam, CADC Youth Program Manager
Preferred pronouns: He, him, his
Jeff is a certified AODA counselor and Program manager for both the HOPE program and the Tea Room. Jeffrey engages and connects with the youth and young adults in our communities regarding services and resources. He works with our youth in developing important life skills to help sustain and build stability in their lives. He also counsels clients who struggle with mental health and substance use issues.
Prior to joining TPAN in 2017, Jeffrey worked as Residential Case Manager at Chicago House and Social Services Agency.
Email: j.pulliam@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x271
Jocelyn Gorokhovsky RPh, LSW HOPE Behavioral Counselor
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

Joseph Kaufman, MSW Medical Case Manager

Joseph Kaufman, MSW Medical Case Manager
Preferred Pronouns: He/Him/His
As a Ryan White Part B Medical Case Manager, Joseph helps connect individuals with vital resources in the community to best help his clients whether it be medical care, dental, vision, mental health, transportation, even food resources. Joseph’s main goal is to help clients reach a high level of self-sufficiency & self-advocacy and maintain healthy and fruitful lives.
Joseph joined TPAN as a Case Management intern in August of 2017 as a student at Northeastern Illinois University. Joseph always knew he wanted to work in the LGBTQ community but in working at TPAN he was able to discover a love for working with individuals impacted by HIV. After his internship experience Joseph was hired as a housing navigator in September of 2018. Joseph then left the agency to pursue his Master’s degree in Social Work from University of Illinois-Chicago in August of 2019. Joseph was then hired back on staff as a Medical Case Manager in April of 2020. Outside of work Joseph loves, working out, yoga, reading, exploring the outdoors, and hanging out with friends and family.
773-989-9400 ext. 274

Joshua Brown Housing Technician

Joshua Brown Housing Technician
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hi, I'm Josh! I'm excited to be joining the TPAN team in the role of housing technician. I have my Master's in Education from Saint Xavier University and my Bachelor's in Biology and Spanish from Taylor University. I worked as a zookeeper and marine mammal trainer at Brookfield Zoo after college. I've spent the past twelve years traveling and teaching high school science - AP Environmental, Biology, Marine Biology - in Chicago, Medellin (Colombia), Denver, and Honolulu.
I've decided to leave the classroom and give back to a community that has had such a profound impact on my life. I look forward to empowering individuals living with HIV by helping them find stable housing and feel supported as they utilize our services here at TPAN.
Email: j.brown@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 ext. 237

Joshua Gutierrez Prevention & Health Education Manager

Joshua Gutierrez Prevention & Health Education 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
Juan José López, LCSW Manager of Case Management
Juan José López, LCSW Manager of Case Management
Preferred pronouns: All pronouns used respectfully
As TPAN's Manager of Case Management, Juan José oversees the Ryan White Part A medical case management and Linkage programs. Working with his team of case managers, Juan José ensures that all clients receive access to the healthcare, housing, and human service programs available to them. TPAN is lucky to benefit from Juan José breadth of experience with the agency, and his dedicated involvement in Chicago's LGBTQ communities.
Juan José first came to TPAN in August of 2007 as a social work intern while he completed his bachelor's in Social Work from Northeastern Illinois University. In 2008 Juan José was hired as a Prevention Specialist, and became a member of Chicago’s HIV Prevention Planning Group, a Board Member of Orgullo Èn Acciòn, and a community member of United Latino/a Pride.
In 2010, Juan José completed his Master of Social Work degree program from the University of Illinois at Chicago, with a concentration in Mental Health, and moved to TPAN's medical case management staff. He began overseeing the program in 2016. During this time Juan José joined the Illinois Department of Public Health's Medical Case Management Advisory Board.
In January, 2017, Juan José became a member of the Chicago Area HIV Integrated Services Council CAHISC), a 42-member steering committee for the City of Chicago, which provides guidance on the allocation of funding to deliver HIV prevention, care and housing services throughout Chicago.
Email: j.lopez@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x238

Kendall Herbert HOPE Outreach & Recruitment Specialist

Kendall Herbert HOPE Outreach & Recruitment Specialist

Leigh Ferguson Front Desk Receptionist

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.
Liz Bennett, MBA, CPA Staff Accountant
Liz Bennett, MBA, CPA Staff Accountant
Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers
As the Director of Finance, Liz manages all things financial including project and organizational budgets, accounting, audit and tax compliance, and general business matters. She joined TPAN early in 2015 motivated to use her skills to contribute to a direct service organization with a valuable mission; now she is inspired daily by the work TPAN does for its clients and community.
Prior to joining TPAN, she was the Director of Finance and Budget for 16 years at a non-profit policy research center with a focus on vulnerable children and their communities.
Email: l.bennett@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x247
Martha F Hernandez, M.D. Psychiatrist
Martha F Hernandez, M.D. Psychiatrist
Preferred pronouns: She/Her/Hers
As TPAN's staff psychiatrist, Dr. Hernandez meets individually with clients, guiding them through the transformative process of therapeutic and medication intervention. Her therapeutic philosophy allows the patient to be the driving force for self-healing and self-discovery. Her focus at TPAN is on the strengths and resilience of patients, from victims to victory over all adversity.
Dr. Hernandez is a holistic Psychiatrist who's practice has spanned more than 25 years in Indiana and Illinois. She joined TPAN in 2015.
To schedule an appointment, contact Julie, 773-989-9400 x240.

Michael Jeske Medical Case Manager

Michael Jeske Medical Case Manager
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
Michelle Randall-English Database Applications & Quality Analyst
Michelle Randall-English Database Applications & Quality Analyst
Preferred pronouns: She, her, hers
I have been with TPAN for 6 years as the Database Applications & Quality Analyst, which has me managing TPAN’s electronic medical records system as well as network security, performing data management activities, reporting to funding sources, and coordinating with staff on quality improvement initiatives.
Prior to joining TPAN in 2015, I worked for five years as a data specialist at Christian Community Health Center, managing and analyzing data and providing data support for quality improvement initiatives. I was also a participant in the Great Chicago Quality Management Group.
I graduated from DeVry University with a degree in Health Information Technology and Robert Morris University with a degree in Computer Networking.
My interests include: Tinkering with gadgets, Reading, Cooking, Midnight Snacking, and am a Miniature Enthusiast.
Quote: At the end of the day, life should ask us if we want to save the changes or not.
Email: m.randall-english@tpan.com
Phone: 773-989-9400 x245

Rick Guasco Creative Director

Rick Guasco Creative Director
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

Yamari Lewis Youth Navigation Specialist

Yamari Lewis Youth Navigation Specialist
Pronouns: She, Her, Hers
As TPAN's Youth Navigation Specialist, I connect youth clients to resources inside and outside of TPAN. I work primarily in the Tea Room and with the HOPE program. I am passionate about all assets of public health, and I am dedicated to the advancement of racial, gender, and sexual minorities. All this is done at the same time as I pursue my master's degree at UIC.
Since joining TPAN in 2020, I've participated in lively conversations about a wide range of topics, watching reality TV, and lending an ear when I can. I love trivia and learning new facts that I can share with my friends. I also have a dog, a ravenous sweet tooth, and high energy which makes my work life and personal life very interesting.
(773) 989-9400 ext, 292
y.lewis@tpan.com