The National Minority AIDS Council (NMAC) recently named Ravinia Hayes-Cozier the new Director of Government Relations and Public Policy (GRPP).  In this role, Hayes-Cozier will develop and recommend HIV/AIDS policy on behalf of the 3,000 HIV/AIDS faith- and community-based organizations (F/CBOs) and AIDS service organizations that NMAC represents nationwide, to policy makers, opinion leaders and funders. She also will serve as NMAC’s Official Spokesperson, providing insight into the agency’s stance on issues of policy, as well as disseminating information about its programs and services.

“Ravinia brings over 25 years of leadership in HIV/AIDS advocacy to NMAC. Her influence in raising awareness, developing policy and implementing change in communities of color affected by HIV and AIDS cannot be overstated,” says NMAC Executive Director Paul Kawata. “We are honored to have her as part of our team and look forward to better serving our constituents through this auspicious partnership.”

Prior to joining NMAC, Hayes-Cozier served as Executive Director for the Harlem Directors Group, a consortium of 33 F/CBOs, and was responsible for program and policy development for the consortium. She also served as an Assistant Commissioner for HIV services for New York City’s Health Department, ensuring the sustainability, capacity and financial stability of F/CBOs delivering HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment services in all five of New York City’s boroughs. She also headed HIV policy development for the City, and played a key role on the national stage in the development of the Minority AIDS Initiative.