Jessica Corcoran, PhD, CRNP, CPNP-PC, CNE (she/her)

Assistant Professor, UAB School of Nursing

Years as an ANAC member: 2 years

ANAC Committee: Research Committee

What does National Youth HIV AIDS Awareness Day (NYHAAD) mean to you?

National Youth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a reminder that young people remain a central population for HIV prevention and early intervention efforts yet are often unsupported by our systems. NYHAAD matters to me because it calls attention not only to prevention and testing gaps, but to the structural, legal, and social barriers that make it harder for youth to access care without stigma or fear. It is a day to recommit to meeting young people where they are, listening to them, and ensuring they have accurate information, trusted providers, and supportive spaces so they can make informed decisions about their health and futures.

Do you have a mentor or mentors who have been instrumental to your career and, if so, whom and how?

Mirjam-Colette Kempf took me under her wing early in my career and opened doors I did not even know existed. She invited me to collaborate on important HIV prevention projects, introduced me to community partners, and showed me how to nurture those partnerships with care and intention. Her guidance and mentorship have shaped my career trajectory, inspiring me to center collaboration and community in everything I do.

What words of wisdom might you pass on to those entering the field?

When working with youth, meaningful progress in HIV testing and treatment happens through strong community relationships. Ways to do this include partnering with schools, youth-serving organizations, and local programs that youth already trust. Listening to young people and working collaboratively alongside them helps ensure services are acceptable, accessible, and effective. Building trust through community partnership is essential to creating lasting improvements in HIV prevention and care.

Who/what inspires you?

I am deeply inspired by young people who speak up for HIV prevention, education, and stigma reduction. Youth who continue to show up with honesty, creativity, and courage often sharing their own experiences to educate peers and challenge outdated narratives about HIV. Many are doing this while navigating systems that were not built with them in mind, yet they still lead. Their courage reminds me that nurses have a responsibility not only to provide care, but to listen, learn, and amplify youth voices by creating spaces where young people can lead the conversations.