June 9–10, 2025 | Astor Crowne Plaza, New Orleans, LAgo.uab.edu/bbsymposium
Join national leaders in New Orleans June 9-10, 2025, for Breaking the Boundaries: Reimagining Research and Clinical Practice for a Healthier Tomorrow, a two-day event focused on improving how research and care delivery align to meet today’s most urgent health challenges. Hosted by the Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS), this symposium is one of 18 taking place nationwide through the Strengthening Pathways initiative.
Bringing together individuals from academic, clinical, community, policy, and industry settings, this conversation aims to identify practical ways to enhance the reach and impact of health research. Attendees will collaborate across disciplines to develop a shared vision and actionable strategies for change. Visit go.uab.edu/bbsymposium to register today.
Featured Speakers
Two compelling keynote presentations will guide the conversation:
Brian M. Rivers, PhD, MPH
Director, Cancer Health Equity Institute
Morehouse School of Medicine
Michael Mugavero, MD, MS
Director, Center for Outcomes Effectiveness Research and Education (COERE)
Co-Director, Center For AIDS Research
Associate Director, Center for Clinical and Translational Science
Associate Dean for Clinical and Translational Research, Heersink School of Medicine University of Alabama at Birmingham
Engage with Experts Across Fields
In addition to keynote presentations, the full agenda includes three interactive panel discussions, a showcase of trainee lightning talks, and small-group “World Café” sessions that bring together voices from across sectors. These sessions are designed to spark practical solutions and cross-cutting collaboration. Download our attendee prepartion guide for more details about these sessions.There’s Still Time to Register
Registration remains open for those who want to take part in this important conversation. Visit go.uab.edu/bbsymposium to register and access event materials.Full Symposium Agenda
Click here to download a detailed agenda (PDF)Monday, June 9, 2025
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 11:30 AM | Registration / Networking Luncheon |
| 12:30 PM |
Welcome Jennifer Croker, PhD; Timiya S. Nolan, PhD, APRN-CNP, ANP-BC |
| 12:35 PM |
Day 1 Keynote Presentation Brian M. Rivers, PhD, MPH |
| 1:10 PM |
Setting the Frame Moderator: Carol Agomo, PhD, MBA, MPH |
| 2:20 PM |
Trainee Lightning Talks Moderators: Clifford Kennon, EdS, MPA; Shyla Fields, MBA |
| 3:30 PM | Break / Networking |
| 3:45 PM |
Panel 1: What is possible with a boost in funding centered on prevention and improved outcomes? Moderator: Donna Williams, MS, MPH, DrPH |
| 4:20 PM |
Panel 2: How could we redesign research structures and funding priorities for measurable impact? Moderator: Pearl McElfish, PhD, MBA |
| 4:55 PM |
Panel 3: How do we build and support the researcher workforce for the future? Moderator: Nicole Wright, PhD, MPH |
| 5:25 PM | Day 1 Closing |
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 7:15 AM | Networking Breakfast |
| 8:00 AM |
Welcome Back Jennifer Croker, PhD; Timiya S. Nolan, PhD, APRN-CNP, ANP-BC |
| 8:05 AM |
World Café 1: Research Process Perspectives Facilitator: Nicholas Duesbery, PhD |
| 8:55 AM |
World Café 2: Health Provider Perspectives Facilitator: Kelly Resco-Summers, DNP, MS, MADM, RN |
| 9:45 AM |
World Café 3: Community Perspectives Facilitator: Verlon Salley, MHS, CRA |
| 10:35 AM | Break / Networking |
| 11:00 AM |
Day 2 Keynote Presentation Michael Mugavero, MD |
| 11:40 AM |
Top 10 Meeting Moments / Where Do We Go from Here? Presenters: Jennifer Croker, PhD; Timiya S. Nolan, PhD |
| 12:00 PM | Conference Closing |
Visit go.uab.edu/bbsymposium to register today. For questions, please contact CCTS@uab.edu. We look forward to welcoming you to New Orleans!