The HIV epidemic remains one of the most urgent public health crises facing the Southern United States—particularly in Georgia, where rates of new infections continue to rise among Black communities, young people, and rural populations.

Join us for a compelling session of Fireside Grand Rounds, where we engage in a raw, truth-centered dialogue on the current state of HIV in Georgia. Framed as an intimate conversation rather than a lecture, this event bridges lived experience, clinical insight, and public health data to explore how stigma, structural racism, rural access, and federal policy are shaping HIV prevention, care, and outcomes across the region.

What Makes This Fireside Grand Rounds Special

This session goes beyond statistics. It centers:

• Stories of survival and advocacy from those living with or working in the HIV field

• Public health experts and frontline providers who are reshaping care

• Discussion on how federal funding cuts and social determinants are influencing prevention and treatment

• Culturally grounded, community-informed approaches to end the epidemic

Discussion Topics May Include

• HIV stigma in rural and Black communities

• Barriers to testing and treatment access

• PrEP awareness and uptake

• The impact of policy on HIV outcomes

• Youth engagement and sexual health education

Who Should Attend

• Public Health and Nursing Students

• HIV Advocates and Care Providers

• Faith Leaders and Educators

• Community Health Workers and Case Managers

• Anyone impacted by or interested in health equity in the South