Jordan

“Volunteering for an HIV vaccine study reminds me that I am privileged. I am young. I am healthy. I have a healthy immune system. It’s the least I could do.”

Jordan’s life is dedicated to ending the HIV epidemic. As an HIV researcher for Duke University in North Carolina (but based in the San Francisco Bay Area), Jordan—who identifies as gender non–conforming and prefers third–person plural pronouns—not only volunteers in support of HIV prevention, but also works to learn how to make life better for people living with HIV. Their research focuses on how people who are living with HIV and depression can better adhere to a regimen of antiretroviral therapy through the delivery of stronger mental health services to diagnose and treat depression. They describe a dedication to ending the HIV epidemic by noting self–privilege and the responsibility that comes with that privilege. Gratitude, responsibility, and the need to give back are all strong core values for Jordan.

A New England native and recent San Francisco transplant by way of North Carolina, Jordan enjoys life in the Bay Area. “It’s so beautiful here,” they said when speaking about hiking—a newly formed habit resulting from recent relocation. They also like to bike around San Francisco and are thankful for San Francisco’s very bicycle–friendly community and city infrastructure. From Jordan’s perspective, San Francisco’s coffee culture is another plus to life in the Bay Area. An Americano in the afternoon before a bike or hike seems to do the thing.

And then there’s the music. “People in this city love to dance,” says Jordan with a broad smile. Using Traktor Pro software, Jordan obliges with all sorts of music—house, hip hop, dance remixes, and sou—helping people all over San Francisco find their groove.

Jordan is thankful to the clinical staff for their commitment and for making the volunteer experience a positive one. “You know these people want to be there,” they said when speaking about the clinicians and counselors who work with volunteers in the clinic. In spite of a fear of needles, Jordan comes in for volunteer visits and blood draws. And the one surprising thing about volunteering? “That I had to do a saliva test.” After laughing about that comment, they add, “Again, it’s the least I could do.”