We’re excited to introduce Vern (they/them), MPH, our Support Services Manager at Primary Health Care! Vern brings a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to their role, making a meaningful impact on our team and the community we serve.
A Trailblazing Leader
Vern is a queer, trans, and Indigenous leader from Louisiana with a powerful background in public health and advocacy. After serving in the United States Marine Corps, they pursued their Master of Public Health and began creating essential programs in rural Louisiana. These initiatives provided safe drug and sexual health supplies to local residents, and Vern played a critical role in policy efforts to establish syringe access in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and reverse the criminalization of HIV.
Driving Change Across the Nation
In 2021, Vern relocated to Portland, Oregon, where they continued their policy work with a focus on drug decriminalization. Their efforts secured a $2.7 million grant to build Substance Use Peer Support programs, providing vital resources to the greater Portland area.
Beyond Advocacy
When not championing equity for trans individuals, the houseless community, and people of color, Vern enjoys diving into hobbies like reading, hiking, running, and learning new skills—most recently, knitting. They love gluten-free pasta and have an eye for finding unique, thrifted treasures to add flair to their wardrobe or home.
Vern’s dedication, creativity, and advocacy make them an incredible asset to our team and the community. We’re so lucky to have them on board!