Gregg Heffner's compassion for those living with AIDS and HIV led him to reach out to the community, yet he has also been inspired by those he's helped.
"I may have been able to give something to the HIV/AIDS community over the years, but I've received so much more in return," Heffner said. "I find tremendous strength and resiliency in the HIV community. Their ability to look into and beyond layer upon layer of life's challenges is truly an inspiration."
Heffner, a professor at the College of Human Ecology took the stage to receive the 28th annual Dan and Mary Lou Rubenstein Social Justice Award Wednesday night in Maxwell Auditorium. He looked out at an audience full of students, colleagues, former professors and friends and reflected on his work of the past nine years.
"Would it be fair to consider that HIV or AIDS is a rightful pain for being challenged in such ways?" Heffner asked the audience. "I reject the claims of many that HIV infection is about choices. It's about a virus, and it's about being human."
The Rubenstein Social Justice Award is presented to recognize a person who reflects the values of social justice in his or her professional or personal life. It was an occasion to recognize Heffner and also commemorate the 50th anniversary of the College of Human Ecology's School of Social Work.
Since 2004, Heffner has worked as a program manager and therapist at ARISE Child and Family Services. He is an advocate there for the rights and access to services of people living with HIV/AIDS in the community.
Heffner returned to his roots at SU where he teaches AIDS: Social and Preventative issues in the master of social work (MSW) program as an adjunct professor. Heffner, a 2001 graduate of the SU School of Social Work, said while attending SU, he realized the power and ability he had to make changes in the HIV community.
Alejandro Garcia, director of the School of Social Work, remembers when Heffner was a "poor, humble student" at SU, but admires what he has done in the time since.
"Now we see him as an accomplished professional and leader in the community, continuing the good fight on behalf of persons with HIV/AIDS," Garcia said. "For that we're truly grateful to have such a wonderful role model for our students and faculty members."
Cheryl Palmer is one of those students. Palmer, an adult master of social work candidate, is a student in Heffner's class and also knows him through her placement at ARISE.
"He is very open and warm and welcoming," Palmer said. "He's not intimidating at all. You feel very free to say anything that you want or ask any question and not feel like it's going to be a stupid question."
Heffner has no plans to stop what he's doing. He will continue to advocate for the needs of the HIV/AIDS community and act as a resource for anyone in need.
"In this work I find patience in my own challenges and strength," Heffner said. "It is truly a blessing and an honor, as is this recognition."
pastanle@syr.edu
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