Skip to main content

Stephen Handlon, OHP Staff Member Introduction

Stephen Handlon, OHP Staff Member Introduction

by Office of HIV Planning

July 2, 2013

Stephen Handlon, OHP Staff


Tell us about yourself
I recently graduated from Haverford College with a B.A. in History. I have always had an interest in public health and am excited to be the new administrative assistant at the Office of HIV Planning. So far, I have had the opportunity to meet great people and see how policy impacts the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS. I currently live in Northern Liberties and in my free time, I enjoy exploring new restaurants and hang outs in the city. I have been to Paris, France a few times and am obsessed with French films and almost anything related to the language or culture. Another fun fact is that I’m from Minnesota… and no, I do not have an accent like in the movie Fargo.


What made you get involved in the HIV/AIDS community?
Because of the work that has been done by advocates, community members, policy officials and scientists, those in the gay community in my generation have a greater awareness about issues related to HIV/AIDS than previous generations. However, there is still a lot to be done in terms of erasing the stigma surrounding the illness, providing adequate care to those affected and working towards a cure.


Who do you look up to or admire?
I admire all the hardworking people in the world who are so essential to our everyday activities, but who almost always go unnoticed. I try to remember to thank the driver when I take the trolley to work in the morning.


What do you think is the biggest challenge for people living with HIV/AIDS?
I think some of the biggest challenges are related to larger challenges disproportionately faced by people from marginalized groups, such as stigma and a lack of access to things such as quality food, housing and education. 


Return to the blog