Thank you to everyone who has already submitted abstracts for the AOSW 42nd Annual Conference: Threads of Support: Nurturing Resilience and Breaking Barriers, taking place in Portland, Oregon, June 10–12, 2026. We are thrilled by the incredible response and the rich ideas being shared. If you haven’t submitted yet, there’s still time—the abstract submission deadline is Monday, December 1, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to a conference dedicated to fostering resilience, innovation, and collaboration in oncology social work.
We are excited to welcome back Nicole Marcouiller as co-chair of the Conference Planning Committee (CPC) and introduce several new leaders to the team: Sophia Tsesmelis Piccolino, Jen Keller (Abstract Reviewer Lead), and Kayla Fulginiti (Abstract Mentor Lead). Their expertise and energy promise to make the 2026 conference our most dynamic yet.
This year, attendees can look forward to 13 blocks of four concurrent CE sessions, offering a total of 52 sessions to explore. We’ve also standardized session lengths for a smoother, more predictable schedule:
- Paper: 60 minutes
- Panel Symposium: 60 minutes
- Practice Intensive: 2 parts, 60 minutes each
- Learning Institute: 60 minutes
- Pre-Conference Workshop: 4 hours
These sessions are designed to provide both depth and diversity, giving you the flexibility to create a personalized learning journey while connecting with colleagues who share your passions and interests.
Listening to your feedback from past conferences, we’re making important changes to the meeting schedule. Early morning Special Interest Group (SIG) and committee meetings were challenging for many attendees, so in 2026, these meetings will have dedicated time and space after the final CE sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday. The Fellows meeting will take place during breakfast on Thursday morning. Whenever possible, session topics will be paired with relevant SIG or committee meetings, making it easier to continue conversations sparked during the day. Morning meetings remain optional for those who prefer them. Similar dedicated time is being coordinated for Survivors Network, ensuring every participant has the opportunity to engage meaningfully.
As the year winds down, you may notice two familiar names sharing updates from the Education Committee: Kelly Hendershot, LGSW, LMSW, and Dr. Sophia Tsesmelis Piccolino, LCSW, OSW-C. Kelly and Sophia have been working closely to ensure a smooth transition as Sophia steps into her role as Director of Education on January 1, 2026. Their partnership embodies the spirit of the conference— fostering connections that strengthen our community, build resilience, and open pathways to more equitable care in oncology social work.
The 42nd Annual Conference promises to be a celebration of shared knowledge, resilience, and innovation in oncology social work. From cutting-edge CE sessions to collaborative networking opportunities, it’s a chance to connect, learn, and be inspired. Together, we will weave the threads of support that sustain our field, empower our patients, and build a stronger, more connected community.
Don’t wait—submit your abstract today and join us in Portland for a conference that celebrates the very best of oncology social work, fosters meaningful connections, and equips us all to thrive in challenging and ever-changing times.
