CEO of Black Gay Nonprofit NAESM, Inc. Dr. Alvan George Vincent Quamina Passes Away

The Board of Directors of NAESM, Inc. has announced the death of Dr. Alvan George Vincent Quamina, the organization’s Executive Director and CEO, who passed away on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The news was shared exclusively with Gaye Magazine in an official statement from the board.

Dr. Quamina, who assumed leadership in 2019 following NAESM’s founder Rudy Carn, was credited with expanding the organization’s reach, strengthening community partnerships, and deepening its focus on health and wellness for Black gay and same-gender-loving men.

Under his leadership, NAESM (National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities, Inc.) saw what the board described as “unprecedented growth” and a renewed commitment to social justice and public health.

“Dr. Quamina’s passion, integrity, and unwavering dedication to social justice and public health have left an indelible mark on NAESM and all who had the privilege of working with him,” the board said in its statement. “His leadership and compassion will be profoundly missed.”

The board extended its condolences to Dr. Quamina’s family, friends, and the many community members whose lives he touched. NAESM also reassured its clients and partners that operations will continue uninterrupted and that an interim executive director will be announced in the coming days.

Founded in Atlanta, NAESM has long served as a leading voice for Black LGBTQ+ health and empowerment, working to eliminate disparities through education, advocacy, and direct service. The organization’s mission is “to provide national and local leadership to address the myriad health and wellness issues confronted by Black gay men through advocacy, services, and education.” Its vision envisions “a Black gay men’s community that enjoys legal, civic, social, health, and wellness equity with all other communities.”

Under Dr. Quamina’s tenure, NAESM strengthened its national footprint by building partnerships that extended beyond HIV prevention and health outreach. One of the organization’s most notable efforts, which Gaye Magazine exclusively reported earlier this year, was NAESM’s support in helping fund TS Madison’s “Starter House” — a transitional housing initiative for formerly incarcerated Black transgender women. The program provides resources, housing, and support for trans women re-entering society, representing the kind of inclusive and community-centered approach that became a hallmark of Quamina’s leadership.

Dr. Quamina’s passing marks a significant loss for the national Black LGBTQ+ community and the broader public health sector. As NAESM mourns his passing, the organization has asked for “continued support and prayers” as it carries forward Dr. Quamina’s legacy of advocacy, empowerment, and service.