What is your name and where are you from?

Jan Kosmyna. I’m originally from Toledo, Ohio and now I live in Cleveland, Ohio

When did you join the ACTG? 

I joined in 1991 as a research nurse. I’m now retired and stayed involved with the ACTG as a community member

Why did you get involved with the ACTG, and what are some of the things you’ve done as a member?

I was an oncology research nurse, but was so touched by the HIV epidemic that I contacted the local ACTU PI and switched careers. After retiring, I wanted to continue my advocacy in a new way.

Describe your community.

We’re based in metropolitan Cleveland, comprised of a wide base of individuals living with HIV

What are the most important treatment issues to your community?

Cure research. Vaccines and treatments. Long acting ARVs and other agents. 

How do you want your work in the ACTG to be remembered?

I hope people remember me as a nurse with a passion for community advocacy

What are your future hopes for the ACTG and HIV research?

Continued and expanded funding! Also, that someday we won’t need it because we’ll have a cure