In St. Louis, young Black men who have sex with men continue to face disproportionately high rates of HIV, while testing uptake remains persistently low. In response, ChampionSTL emerged as a community-centered initiative designed to reimagine HIV prevention through peer leadership, human-centered design, and accessible science communication. Learn more about ChampionSTL and what it means to build hope, equity, and power through community-academic partnerships.

At a recent Scientific Working Group Community Collaborative meeting, individuals who submitted to the latest call for Partner Pilot Award applications were given the opportunity to reflect and share feedback about their experience.

Meet the inaugural Scientific Working Group (SWG) Community Champions, San Juan Caffey Jr. and Jourdan Lacey. The Community Champion Program uplifts leaders whose lived experience and professional expertise strengthen our shared mission to equitably end the HIV epidemic in Missouri.

When communities are authentically engaged and valued in research, it results in not only better science, but also a healthier, more just future for all.