Hawaii HIV Service Advocate Receives Annual Award
Peter Tuiolosega Silva earns the 2026 Suzanne Richmond-Crum Award for his three decades of work in local HIV services.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Sexual Health
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The Hawaii Department of Health has named Peter Tuiolosega Silva as the recipient of the 2026 Suzanne Richmond-Crum Award. Silva, who leads the agency now known as Kumukahi Health + Wellness, is being honored for three decades of service in HIV care.
Why it matters
This award recognizes sustained contributions to HIV services and honors the legacy of Suzanne Richmond-Crum, who directed the Hawaii Seropositivity and Medical Management Program for over a decade. It reflects the ongoing commitment to public health advancements in sexual health and HIV support within Hawaii.
The award marks the 23rd annual presentation recognizing an individual for HIV service contributions in the state. While the selection highlights long-term dedication to the field, the impact of current organizational expansions—including a new sexual health clinic—remains an active area of development.
The players
Peter Tuiolosega Silva
The 2026 recipient of the Suzanne Richmond-Crum Award and CEO of Kumukahi Health + Wellness.
Suzanne Richmond-Crum
The late director of the Hawaii Seropositivity and Medical Management Program who served for over 10 years.
Hawaii Department of Health
The state agency responsible for overseeing public health initiatives and managing the annual award process.
Kumukahi Health + Wellness
A health agency formerly known as the Hawaii Island HIV/AIDS Foundation that provides HIV and sexual health services.
The details
Peter Tuiolosega Silva has spent 30 years working in HIV services, currently serving as the chief executive officer of Kumukahi Health + Wellness. The agency, formerly the Hawaii Island HIV/AIDS Foundation, has evolved to include comprehensive medical care, such as a sexual health clinic and syringe exchange programs. The Suzanne Richmond-Crum Award was established to honor the compassion and commitment shown by its namesake, who served as the director of the Hawaii Seropositivity and Medical Management Program for over 10 years before her death in 2004.
Timeline
2004: Suzanne Richmond-Crum passes away.
December 1, 2026: The award ceremony takes place in Honolulu.
Health Landscape
This award acknowledges the historical importance of localized, dedicated HIV service programs in Hawaii. It highlights a long-standing tradition of recognizing community leadership that bolsters the state's sexual health infrastructure.
Residents interested in local health resources can look to organizations like Kumukahi Health + Wellness for expanded services, including sexual health clinics. If you are seeking specialized support, it is worth discussing available community-based HIV and wellness programs with your primary care provider.
The takeaway
Recognizing those with long-term commitment to HIV care is vital for maintaining robust public health standards in the community. Residents can track local wellness updates by contacting their public health department or local health clinics to learn about available screening and care services.
Further reading
For more information on local programs, visit the Sexual Health resources page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Maui Now | Hawaii News | Local Maui News and Information | Hawaii News.
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