It is hard to believe that in June 1998 SMART University held its first graduation! It was held at Metropolitan Hospital’s Draper Hall in East Harlem where we held our first classes. As I look back on this momentous occasion, never in my wildest dreams would I think that I would be here 10 years later, let alone SMART still up and running! Our longevity is a true testament to the women who started SMART back then and the women who are part of SMART now. They are and have always been the foundation of SMART.

This is indeed a milestone event for an organization founded by, run by and for HIV positive women. Rebecca Denison started WORLD and the first HIV University in 1991, which became a replicable model for women in communities around the country. I remember her telling me, “You will never forget your first graduation,” and she was so right!

Some of SMART University’s first graduates played an important role in the growth, programming and development of SMART. Petra Berrios, Deputy Director of LTI, is a Founding Board member and worked with me for many years to keep SMART going. Two other Founding Board members, M.A. and A.R., also from our first graduating class, gave Petra and I the support and encouragement that we needed to continue SMART. They are still attending programs at SMART, giving input and guidance.

Many of our Advisory Board members have played important roles in mentoring, guiding and supporting SMART for this 10-year journey. John Falkenberg, who is being honored at our 10th graduation, has been an extraordinary friend, mentor and resource. Quite frankly, SMART (and probably me as well) would not be here today if not for him. Words cannot say enough in terms of how much his exceptional knowledge, commitment and experience that he has given to SMART. Catherine Hanssens, Executive Director of the Center for HIV Law and Policy, has provided invaluable technical assistance and resources for SMART since we began.

So many of the providers on our Advisory Board have played an integral role over the years in providing SMART with expert advice, financial support and volunteering to instruct SMART University classes, which have helped SMART bridge the gap that exists between accessing the acceptable standard of treatment and care for women and youth living with HIV/AIDS.

We celebrated this special 10th Anniversary at the New York Academy of Medicine on June 27. SMART salutes all of our graduates and everyone who has been a part of making our vision become a reality.

— Susan Rodriguez, SMART Founding Director