Dr. Christen to serve as Executive Director of PATF

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Charles Christen for his appointment as Executive Director of the Pittsburgh AIDs Task Force (PATF). PATF, the oldest and largest AIDS service organization in Southwestern Pennsylvania, is dedicated to supporting and empowering all individuals living with HIV/AIDS, as well as preventing the spread of infection. PATF is a leader in providing comprehensive support services that improve the health and quality of life for those living with HIV/AIDS in the following counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Greene, Fayette, Indiana, Washington, and Westmoreland.
Dr. Christen joined the Center for Healthy Environments and Communities (CHEC) as the Director of Operations in 2008. He has a doctoral degree from the Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences of the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, and a certificate in LGBT Health Research. Dr. Christen has an extensive background in HIV service, as well as a developing expertise in community based environmental health practice.

The Pittsburgh Aids Task Force is very fortunate to have Dr. Christen as their new leader. During his time at CHEC, Dr. Christen has demonstrated superb skills, most importantly the manner in which he develops close working relationships with community organizations. While it will be difficult to replace Dr. Christen as a dedicated employee, his responsiveness to environmental health issues and passion for fulfilling the University’s role in supporting community needs will be a legacy upon which we will build.

Dr. Christen’s last day with CHEC will be July 15, 2011. An active search for his successor is under way.