The First AWSIM Annual Scientific & Member Assembly:

 Evidence, Education, and the Future of Weight-Inclusive Care

Friday, May 8, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM EST, Virtual

This inaugural scientific meeting will bring together clinicians, educators, researchers, trainees, and community partners who are committed to building a more equitable and inclusive health care system. The conference will center the role of rigorous evidence, collaborative leadership, and patient-grounded perspectives in transforming care for people of all sizes.

Key Note Speakers

Rachel Fox, PhD, Assistant Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies, Grand Valley State University

Her mixed-methods research examines the relationship between medicine, public health, and stigma with a focus on anti-fatness in the US.

Dr Lesley Williams, Eating disorder & Menopause Specialist. Weight inclusive physician. Dedicated to promoting health & wellbeing for every body.

AGENDA

TimeDescriptionSpeaker (s)
10:00–10:30 AMWelcome & Opening Remarks
Overview of the day
Acknowledgment of keynote speakers,and  presenters.
Quick orientation to the virtual platform		Dr Lisa Erlanger, President of AWSIM

10:30 -11:30AM		Opening Keynote Speaker 1
 45-minute talk
15-minute Q&A		Dr Rachel Fox

11:30-12:30PM		Scientific Session 1
3 Selected Talks (15 min + 5 min Q&A each)
TBA

12:30-1:30 PM		Scientific Session 2
3 Selected Talks (15 min + 5 min Q&A each)

1:30-2:10PM		Lunch + Virtual Poster Session
Poster gallery open (PDF + optional 3-min pre-recorded video)
Presenters available in chat for asynchronous Q&A		TBA
2:10-3:10PMScientific Session 3
3 Selected Talks (15 min + 5 min Q&A each)
TBA

3:10-4:10PM		Scientific Session 4
3 Selected Talks (15 min + 5 min Q&A each)
TBA

4:10-5:10PM
Closing Keynote Speaker 1
 45-minute talk
15-minute Q&A

Dr. Lesley Williams
5:30-7:30PMFrom Foundation to Forward: AWSIM Annual Governance & Leadership Meeting
President’s Welcome 
2025-26 in Review – “Members in Action”  (ED and/or Past President)
2026-27 Plans – “Mission and Members First” (ED and/or President)
Introduction and Election of Officers (ED or Secretary)
Treasurer’s Report (Treasurer and/or ED)		Don Doering, PhD
Executive Director

Abstract Submissions: Currently Closed:
Abstract submissions for the 2026 AWSIM Annual Scientific & Member Assembly are now closed. We are currently in the review process. Authors will be notified of acceptance decisions first, and public announcements will follow.

Thank you to everyone who submitted their work. We look forward to showcasing selected abstracts at the Assembly.