Pelosi Statement on Dr. Grant Colfax Appointment as Director of Office of National AIDS Policy

Contact: Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after President Obama appointed Dr. Grant Colfax as the new Director of the Office of National AIDS Policy:

"The announcement that Dr. Grant Colfax will serve as the New Director of President Obama's Office of National AIDS Policy brings enormous pride to many San Franciscans and prestige to our city's efforts to increase prevention, ensure treatment, and support research.

"As Director of the HIV Prevention Section in the San Francisco Department of Public Health, Grant has been essential in ensuring a decline in new HIV infections. With experience as a health care practitioner, researcher, and public policy thinker, Grant is uniquely suited to lead the lifesaving efforts of the Office of National AIDS Policy. He has pioneered groundbreaking, evidence-based prevention strategies, such as monitoring and mapping 'community viral load' for decreasing new HIV infections.

"San Francisco's model of care for HIV/AIDS has become the national standard, and today, with the appointment of Grant Colfax, President Obama has recognized our efforts."