November 9, 2007

Scott Hitt, 49, Dies

Prominent AIDS doctor and activist Dr. R. Scott Hitt, the first openly gay head of a presidential advisory board, died Thursday, November 8 of colon cancer at the age of 49 (The Associated Press, 11/9).

Hitt served as the chairman of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV and AIDS during the 1990s. He was known for his bold action in encouraging President Clinton to fight the epidemic, including his criticism of the administration to fund needle-exchange programs.

“I think Scott's legacy was drawing AIDS to the attention of the president. He was uncompromising,” said John Duran, mayor of West Hollywood, where Hitt lived, and a longtime friend. “He was not afraid of challenging the president about what would make good public policy.”

Hitt practiced as an AIDS doctor until 2000. He had been diagnosed with colon cancer a year earlier. While he battled cancer, Hitt also started a foundation to promote activism in the LGBT community.

He is survived by his partner of 27 years, Alex Koleszar, and two sisters, Alana Hoffman and Heather Martin.