2006 Genetic Alliance Conference: Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence in Advocacy

On July 28 through ­ July 30, Genetic Alliance held its 2006 Annual Conference at the Bethesda North Marriott in Bethesda, MD. Attended by nearly 300 advocates, health professionals, policymakers, industry professionals, and community leaders, the conference provided an outstanding opportunity to participate in cutting-edge workshops and insightful discussions.

The conference kicked off with the Genetic Alliance Institute for Advocacy. This year, four concurrent daylong symposiums—Governance in Action, Leadership in Action, Research in Action, and Industry Advocates and Liaisons in Action—provided intensive training for individuals involved in boards, staffs, or corporations.

Saturday and Sunday, July 29-30^th, were organized around four concurrent workshop tracks, including services, policy, research, and information & education. Conference topics covered issues such as genetic testing, personalized medicine, newborn screening, outreach and advocacy, financial reimbursement, race and genetics, clinical trials, evidence-based information, and family history.

Throughout the conference, participants had ample opportunity during long meals and breaks to network and socialize. Saturday evening featured our signature awards banquet celebrating the heroes in advocacy, reporting, industry, and healthcare. The conference ended on July 30, following workshops and a dynamic concluding symposium session. Many participants shared their reactions to the weekend. As one advocate put it: “This year was amazing! You nailed it. You are making a difference in the lives of millions one life at a time.”

See the conference program for the complete agenda and links to workshop descriptions. Stay tuned to our site for presentation information and resources from the conference.

Save the date for the 2007 Genetic Alliance Annual Conference: The Year of the Advocate, July 27^th-29^th in Bethesda, MD.

Genetic Alliance featured special guest Rick Guidotti, photographer and activist, at our 2006 Annual Conference. A former fashion photographer, Positive Exposure’s Guidotti set out to question the accepted societal standards of beauty that his fashion photographs reflected. Today, Rick’s photographs investigate the social and psychological experiences of people of all ages and ethnocultural heritages living with genetic, physical, and mental health conditions. Not only is Rick dedicated to the advocate, Rick is an advocate. In the coming months, the Genetic Alliance website will feature more work by Positive Exposure. Check back often for new images that so poignantly illustrate his unique contribution to individuals, families, and communities affected by genetic conditions. To learn more about Rick Guidotti and Positive Exposure please visit his website www.rickguidotti.com/main.htm.

Program
Award Winners
Sponsors