David Ernesto Munar has devoted his entire professional career to building comprehensive systems of care and prevention that meet the needs of vulnerable populations. Since joining Howard Brown Health in 2014 as its President and CEO, Munar has focused on ensuring the delivery of excellent health and wellness services to Howard Brown’s patient populations, strengthening finances and operations, and positioning the organization for long-term sustainability and growth. Under his leadership, Howard Brown has expanded to include more than 10 health clinics from Englewood to Rogers Park, serving more than 34,000 people annually.
Prior to Howard Brown, Munar honed his career at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago where he held several positions, including President and CEO, during his 23-year tenure with the agency. He currently serves on the governing boards of AllianceChicago, AIDS United, the Black AIDS Institute, and Cook County Health and Hospitals System.
His advocacy work has earned several accolades, including being named a Champion of Change by the White House in 2011. In 2007, he helped launch the Coalition for a National AIDS Strategy, which led to the National HIV/AIDS Strategy unveiled by President Obama in July 2010.
Munar’s work draws on career experience and perspectives as a bilingual Colombian‐American and gay man living with HIV. He is an avid runner and graduate of Northwestern University.