2021's Amazing People of the Year: Writer and Researcher Marc Wagner

Marc Wagner is a longtime HIV survivor from Pittsburgh who has remained devoted for decades to aiding the research and scientific communities. This year, Wagner served as the community lead for the introduction module for the CUREiculum 2.0, which will be hosted on the Treatment Action Group website later this year. These are clinical trials focused on finding an HIV cure.

“I seroconverted between 1984 and early 1985. So, it is 36 years now,” says Wagner of how long he’s been living with HIV. “There is a great deal of satisfaction that comes when you can help others. That is my driving force in all the work I do…. HIV may have changed the focus of my life, but the value added far outweighs all the challenges I have had to face because of it.” 

Wagner has written several published scientific articles on HIV over the years, volunteered for many clinical studies and organizations, and has been a longtime active member of the International AIDS Society. This year also he became the co-chair for the National CAB for the MWCCS — the longest running study of both HIV-positive and HIV-negative men and women in the United States. 

“I am honored to have been chosen,” says the out advocate on being one of Plus magazine’s Most Amazing’s People of the Year. “I would also continue to do the research and advocacy either way. I am full of gratitude to receive this recognition.”