Event Date
Dr. Koen Van Rompay will take you on the thrilling journey of his dual life. Koen Van Rompay is a veterinary doctor, originally from Belgium, who came to Davis in 1989 to pursue a PhD. Since then, he has been an infectious disease researcher at the UC-Davis California National Primate Research Center. His discoveries in nonhuman primate models of HIV built the scientific foundation for several interventions that are now used globally to treat or prevent HIV infection (including PrEP). In 1997, a trip to an AIDS conference in India inspired Koen to found the Davis-based volunteer-run 501(c)3 nonprofit organization Sahaya International (www.sahaya.org), which he manages during his spare time. Sahaya International is a growing network of friends who dedicate their time to support healthcare, education and socio-economic development in several developing countries (including India, Kenya, Uganda, Vietnam, Philippines). This includes also HIV awareness – including peer education - programs for low-literacy communities. In recent years, Sahaya’s programs have also expanded into community-based conservation programs in Uganda to protect a variety of wildlife (including gorillas and lions). Experience and learn how by daring to step outside of our comfort zone, each of us has the ability to create ripple effects.
This event is open to all attendees, but food will only be provided for paid LARC, PRIDE, and/or SOH members.