VirtualJAM2020

ASCLS and the Association of Genetic Technologists (AGT) held a very successful 2020 Virtual Joint Annual Meeting (JAM), June 28-July 2. The online event included 828 registered attendees, which exceeded last year’s attendance by nearly 150. We also had 10 industry partners, 60 educational sessions, five pre-conference workshops, and 39 poster presentations. In addition to valuable CE, attendees were able to socialize and have fun during virtual happy hours, Kazoom sessions, and yoga breaks.

Overall attendees were extremely happy with the Virtual JAM experience and found the online platform to be convenient and enjoyable.

  • “I LOVED the fact that I could ‘attend’ in real time or via a recording of a session. The flexibility was very much appreciated.”
  • “While I missed in person networking, the quality and accessibility of this meeting was first rate.”
  • “Ability to participate in excellent scientific lectures from the convenience of my home. Yet was able to view attendees during the virtual cocktail party.”
  • “I am retired, and 77 years of age. I ‘attended’ this meeting because of the virtual access. I truly enjoyed all of the 12 sessions I participated in. I realized that I still know foundational things allowing me to add to my base. I also realized the extent to which I have always enjoyed medical laboratory science! Thank you for this affordable opportunity.”

Additional Virtual JAM highlights include:

  • The Closing Keynote featured Dr. Leonard Egede of the Medical College of Wisconsin, who discussed Understanding Health Disparities and Social Determinants of Health: A New Era for Health Care Professionals. As part of the Society’s commitment to address social disparities in healthcare, the keynote was livestreamed for any interested laboratory professional to watch. The recorded session will be available free to anyone through June 30, 2021.
  • The ASCLS Education & Research Fund Silent Auction and related activities raised more than $10,000 for scholarships and grants that support students entering the profession and assist medical laboratory professionals conduct important research.
  • Region V won the PAC donation contest for the 2nd year in a row, raising $2,465! In total, ASCLS regions raised nearly $6,000 for the ASCLS Political Action Committee (PAC) during the Virtual JAM.

All educational sessions and pre-conference workshops were recorded and are available for individual purchase or as bundles through 2020 JAM On Demand.