Melissa Taylor, right, is all smiles as she receives her diploma and Children's Hospital cap from Sherry Stringfellow during the Pediatric Nurse Residency program graduation ceremony.
photo by Dana Johnson
HIV/AIDS conference to focus on role of communities
A community-oriented conference on HIV/AIDS research at Vanderbilt next week will focus on the roles communities play in the successful development of prevention research (vaccine), treatment research and traditional models of outreach.
The conference is about the marriage of major HIV/AIDS research entities with traditional community work, like that of Nashville CARES.
“This conference will provide individuals involved in HIV/AIDS-related research and traditional outreach efforts an opportunity to meet and discuss the critical role that communities play in the successful development of new ways to treat and prevent HIV/AIDS,” explained Josh Barnes, a program coordinator with the Vanderbilt HIV Vaccine Trials and one of the conference organizers. “We'll also examine the need for — and challenges of — integrating HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and research efforts into a comprehensive response to HIV/AIDS.”
The conference, “Sharing our Strengths: Communities and HIV/AIDS Research,” is set for July 22-24 at the Vanderbilt Commodore Ballroom Student Life Center. There is a $40 registration fee, but Barnes said no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Anyone who wishes to attend the conference can apply for sponsorship in various amounts up to $40.
Due to a limited number of attendees at the conference, early registration is encouraged.
The conference is sponsored by the Vanderbilt HIV Vaccine Program and Vaccine Community Advisory Board, The Vanderbilt-Meharry Center for AIDS Research and the AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition.
For registration information, visit the Web site at www.crosscabconf.com or call (615) 322-HOPE.