Note From HAAM's New CEO, Paul Scott

For the past 16 years HAAM has helped more than 6,000 musicians access over $100 million dollars in healthcare and served as a lifeline to the performers that make the capital city the “Live Music Capital of the World.” As honored as I am to join HAAM as the new Chief Executive Officer, I am also ecstatic to be a part of this incredible organization. Over my first few days here I have found myself saying repeatedly to my HAAM colleagues, supporters, and friends that I am so thrilled to be here!

In taking on this role I’ve been given the opportunity to marry my professional and personal passions. As a onetime case manager turned CEO, I have spent my career championing and providing healthcare access to traditionally vulnerable populations. As an avid piano player (lessons every Tuesday!) and former member of the Austin Men’s Chorus, music has always been my sanctuary. I cannot imagine a better community to join and to partner with to keep live music well in Austin. Our organization has earned a stellar reputation in Austin, and I look forward to being part of HAAM’s continued success.

I believe my decade of experience as the CEO of AIDS Services of Austin will serve HAAM well as we grow and evolve to meet the needs of musicians in an ever changing (and challenging) healthcare landscape. I’ll support our HAAM team to strengthen our organizational structure to promote an efficient, effective, and inclusive work culture to support an expanded and enhanced offering of services. I’ll lean upon my deep roots within the local nonprofit and healthcare communities to strengthen and grow strategic and meaningful partnerships that aid our work. And, I’ll work hand in hand with HAAM’s Board of Directors and stakeholders to increase our fundraising and diversify our streams of revenue to solidify our organization’s long-term sustainability, including the establishment of permanent Home for HAAM.

My focus will always be on the needs of our musicians. The goals outlined above will always be done in service of ensuring musicians have access to compassionate and comprehensive healthcare. Our organization’s success will be measured not just by the number of musicians served and healthcare dollars saved but by the healthcare outcomes and quality of life we help our clients achieve.

I want to thank Reenie Collins for the help and support she has provided me during this transition. Reenie’s accomplishments with HAAM are incredible. While no one can replace Reenie, we can build upon the incredible foundation of success she has established and continue to keep music in Austin alive and thriving! I hope you will join us as we celebrate her work. Please RSVP here..

Thank you so much for your support, for the opportunity to lead HAAM, and for making me a part of the HAAM family – or as we say here - the HAAMily.