Staff

Theresa V. Navalta, BA

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Theresa is an Assistant Research Scientist in the Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health. She graduated from Hunter College of the City University of New York with a Bachelor's in Psychology. Theresa has worked extensively with the LGBT population and her research has primarily focused on HIV prevention and treatment. She has been active in various aspects of the research process from participant recruitment, to data collection, and project management. However, the most rewarding part of Theresa's career has always been the one- to- one interviews with participants wherein she is able to learn the most by listening and understanding each of their experiences. She is very excited to be a part of the team and believes that her international experience in customer service will be an additional asset. Theresa plans to continue her education by obtaining a Master's Degree in Psychology.

Renato Barucco

Pronouns: he/him/his

Renato is the project director for Convoy Q. He is also the of the Program for the Study of LGBT Health. Renato has extensive experience implementing and managing research programs and LGBTQ+ health programs in underserved New York City neighborhoods. His expertise includes development of LGBTQ education and cultural competency training curricula.

Walter Bockting, PhD

Walter Bockting, PhD, is the Principal Investigator of Convoy Q. He is Professor of Medical Psychology (in Psychiatry and Nursing), Columbia University Irving Medical Center and a Research Scientist with the New York State Psychiatric Institute. He is Co-Director of the Program for the Study of LGBT Health Initiative, Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health. Dr. Bockting has over 25 years of clinical experience working with LGBTQ individuals, their families, and communities.