As the longest-serving state AIDS director in America, James Vergeront, M.D., has remained an optimist about defeating AIDS and is proud of the progress Wisconsin has made.

"We’ve had tremendous success in reducing risk behaviors among populations that are most threatened by HIV. I’m pleased that the State and community organizations have pulled together to address AIDS in a comprehensive manner. We can all take pride in continuing our efforts together."

From the beginning of the AIDS epidemic, Dr. Vergeront has served with distinction as the director of the Wisconsin AIDS/HIV Program of the Department of Health and Family Services. He is recognized throughout the country for his leadership in promoting effective prevention strategies.

As the AIDS epidemic evolved to the treatment era, Vergeront gave leadership and strong support to a unique, statewide network of care and treatment to help make health care and medications available to everyone with HIV disease in Wisconsin.

"The scientific understanding of HIV so early after it was discovered is impressive. To have discovered effective treatment by 1997 is an achievement that benefits everyone with HIV."

With thoughtfulness and dedication, Dr. Vergeront has unified and rallied Wisconsin to do its very best in response to the AIDS epidemic.

"There is amazing strength and resolve on the part of individuals affected by AIDS that is really impressive. It’s very important to listen to individuals and the voice of the community, to really grasp the diversity of the people the disease affects and to make sure we meet their needs."