The theme for the 2017 AOSW Annual Conference — “Oncology Social Work: Elevating Compassion, Experience and Vision”— reminds us of the qualities and expertise that oncology social workers possess and apply to enhance the quality of life for patients with cancer, their families and communities. This year, we are honored to have three distinguished guest speakers: Julia Rowland, PhD; Yvette Colón, PhD, ACSW, BCD; and Patrice Al-Shatti, MSW, LMSW. These three embody the compassion, experience and vision that is the hallmark of our field.

Dr. Rowland is the Keynote Speaker. She is a pioneer in psycho-oncology and cancer survivorship research and is currently the Director of the National Cancer Institute’s Office of Cancer Survivorship. In this position, she champions the health and quality of life needs of cancer survivors to both governmental and nongovernmental agencies. While working on her PhD in developmental psychology at Colombia University, a visiting professor suggested she reach out to a physician who shared her interests in the psychological side of cancer treatment—Dr. Jimmie Holland. Through this connection, Dr. Rowland was privileged to take part in the inception of the psycho-oncology field.

As a clinician, teacher and researcher in pediatric and adult cancer survivorship, Dr. Rowland has played an instrumental role in the development of the field. In addition to publishing broadly, she co-edited the Handbook of Psycho-oncology (Oxford University Press, 1989) and the Handbook of Cancer Control and Behavioral Science (American Psychological Association Press, 2008). Dr. Rowland’s vision for improved well-being is for both U.S. cancer survivors and those around the world. Her scholarship includes a global perspective, exploring the forces behind increasing resource allocation for those facing cancer around the globe. She commends the power of public advocacy, political organization and building on existing local programs to increase support resources to this population.

We are further privileged to welcome former board member and longtime AOSW member, Dr. Yvette Colón, for the American Cancer Society Quality of Life Lecture. Dr. Colón is an Associate Professor and MSW Program Director at Eastern Michigan University, School of Social Work. She has broad clinical experience in psychosocial oncology, working in a variety of oncology, pain management and end-of-life care settings. A bilingual practitioner, she is particularly interested in families, children and older adults; diversity; LGBTQ affirmative practice and technology-based social work practice. Dr. Colón’s clinical experience and areas of interest form the base of her extensive teaching and research work. She also serves on the editorial boards of the Journal of Pain and Palliative Care Pharmacotherapy and the Journal of Social Work in End-of-Life and Palliative Care.

Dr. Colón holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work, a PhD in Clinical Social Work from New York University and a Graduate Certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies from Eastern Michigan University

And, we anticipate the honor of hearing from Patrice Al-Shatti as our Closing Speaker. Over a long career, Patrice counseled families facing medical crises, facilitated support groups and served as a field instructor with the Arizona State University social work program. Patrice is a strong leader in oncology social work. She frequently presents at conferences, provided leadership in the Arizona Cancer Control Coalition and served as Communications Director for AOSW. She also created the website, FindingUp.com, as a support resource for women affected by a life partner’s suicide. In her retirement, Patrice provides support, referrals and education to members of her parish as a Health Ministries Coordinator.

We are absolutely thrilled to welcome these outstanding leaders and look forward to them sharing wisdom and inspiration for the work we do!