Longtime faculty member Trudy Larson, a professor in the department of pediatrics, and former chair of pediatrics and associate dean at the University of Nevada School of Medicine, has been named interim director of the University of Nevada, Reno’s School of Community Health Sciences, effective Sept. 1.

She will fill the position previously held by Dana Loomis, who is leaving the university for another position.

Larson’s appointment came following consultation with Provost Marc Johnson, Loomis, and the steering committee of community health sciences (faculty members Mel Minarik, Kristen Clements-Nolle, Nora Constantino, and Paul Devereux).

“Dr. Larson brings considerable experience, enthusiasm and an excellent background for this opportunity,” Loomis and John McDonald, vice president for health sciences at the University, said in a joint statement.

Larson has been at the School of Medicine since 1984 when she joined the department of pediatrics. As a Pediatric Infectious Disease specialist, she has spent her career focusing on HIV/AIDS and immunizations and has contributed to both fields in research, education and service. She is the current Medical Director of the HOPES clinic providing medical services to those with HIV/AIDS.

At the School of Medicine, Dr. Larson has been and continues to be involved in curricular development, course coordination and teaching of medical students in all four years of medical school. In her capacity as co-Medical Director for the AIDS Education and Training Center at the University, member of the Northern Nevada Immunization Coalition and medical consultant to the Washoe County District Health Department, she has taken the lead in speaking to professional audiences and the general public on diverse topics including AIDS, vaccination, disease outbreaks, bioterrorism, and sex education.