About Us

The University of Rochester Medical Center was one of the first research sites in the U.S. to conduct HIV vaccine studies. Our long-term experience has allowed us to offer guidance to many other international HIV studies.

The Rochester Victory Alliance

Safe Space at University of Rochester logo - text in a hexagon framed in a rainbow of colors
Our team proudly carries the Safe Space designation. We have committed to providing a welcoming and nurturing environment to people of all gender expressions, sexuality, races, cultures and other identities. Learn more about the Safe Space program at the University of Rochester

The Rochester Victory Alliance is a committed group of experienced, local pioneers passionate about developing an HIV vaccine. We first opened our doors in 1988, and were one of the first five such research clinics focused on HIV vaccine research in the world.

We work closely with the Rochester community to inform and educate on HIV prevention. This includes faith communities and student groups interested in global health and the health of marginalized populations. We also participate in many events throughout the year to engage folks interested in our work. Some of the events we proudly sponsor include Image Out, Rochester’s Pride Parade, Rochester Black Pride, local World AIDS Day events, and Trillium Health’s annual White Party.

Team

Director & Principal Investigator:
Dr. Michael C. Keefer

Chair of Infectious Disease, mPI:
Dr. Paul Bohjanen

Investigators:

Dr. Thinzar Wai

Dr. Cynthia Monaco

Dr. Sonal Munsiff

HIV/AIDS Clinical Trials Unit Coordinator:
Catherine A. Bunce

Clinical Coordinator:
Michael O’Connor

Community Education & Recruitment:
Andrew Moran, Rudi Lott, Dawn Wendt

Research Nurses:
Andrea Raynard, Emily Smith

Data Manager:
Andrew Moran

Research Assistant:
Dawn Wendt, Otetia Woodard, Allison Reece

Community Advisory Board

Supporting the HIV/AIDS Clinical Trials Unit
The Community Advisory Board (CAB) provides an integral link between local researchers and our communities. Members represent the diversity of our communities and come from many backgrounds. All of our members are volunteers, and we are always looking for new community members to join our CAB and/or a sub-committee. 

The CAB typically meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month in the Saunder’s Research Building, 265 Crittenden Boulevard. Dinner is provided at each meeting. There are also several sub-committees that meet independently of CAB at the convenience of its members.

Chair:
Ramil Sapinoro

 Co-chair:
Michael Willoughby

HVTN GCAB Rep:
Ramil Sapinoro

ACTG:
Kevin Aiken

Interested in Joining?

We are happy to welcome guests and new faces at any of our meetings. We are also looking for new CAB members. CAB members have access to member resources and are welcome to join any of our sub-committees.

As a CAB member, you benefit in a variety of ways:

  • Receive up-to-date information from COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS researchers
  • Opportunity to provide input on educational materials
  • Be a part of research
  • Participate in community activities and events
  • Networking opportunities

If you would like to attend an upcoming meeting, please email or call (585) 756-2329 to let us know.

CAB Resources

(members only)