John brings more than two decades of leadership and expertise in HIV prevention, education, and community engagement to CAN Community Health. His passion for this work is both professional and personal, shaped by his own experience witnessing family members affected by HIV and driven by a lifelong commitment to challenge stigma, advance health equity, and strengthen support within impacted communities.
As Vice President of Government and Civic Affairs, John works closely with federal, state, and local partners to ensure comprehensive program compliance and effective resource alignment. He leverages his extensive network to build strategic partnerships that unite government agencies, community organizations, and civic leaders in advancing public health outcomes.
Previously, as Vice President of Education and Program Services, John oversaw the development and implementation of HIV, STI, PrEP, and peer support programs across Florida and beyond—expanding access to accurate information, prevention tools, and compassionate care.
John began his public health career as a Disease Intervention Specialist with the Florida Department of Health, focusing on education, prevention, and intervention related to HIV and other STDs.
He is a graduate of the U.S. Army Academy of Health Sciences and holds an A.A.S. in Paramedic Sciences from Bronx Community College. He is also a fellow of the CDC/Arnold School of Public Health Institute for HIV Prevention Leadership at the University of South Carolina.
Throughout his career, John has contributed to numerous state and regional initiatives, including serving on the Florida Educational Material Review Panel, representing the Regional HIV/AIDS Council (RHAC) within the Florida Community Planning Network (FCPN), and chairing both the RHAC Prevention Committee and the HIV/AIDS Network of Southwest Florida (HANS).
Additionally, John has served as a Community Educator for Tibotec Therapeutics and as a Community Advisory Member for Janssen Pharmaceuticals and Gilead Sciences. He continues to give back as an Educator and Mentor with the Manasota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, inspiring future leaders through education and service.