Optional Networking Events at the STFM Annual Spring Conference

Meeting of STFM Collaborative Chairs and Board of Directors

When: Saturday, May 2, 5:15–6:15 pmWhere: Marriot New OrleansAt this meeting, Group Chairs will meet their STFM Board Liaisons to learn about STFM programs and resources available to STFM Collaboratives and get answers to any questions you might have.

STFM Annual Poetry and Prose Contest and Reading

When: Saturday, May 3, 6:30–8 pmWhere: Marriot New OrleansMore information to come later.

2026 STFM Awards Program and Welcome Reception – Celebrating Our Shining Stars

When: Sunday, May 3; 3:45–5:15 pmWhere: Marriot New OrleansGather your friends and colleagues and join us for a celebration of STFM members who exemplify the very best in our discipline. We will honor their contributions to family medicine education and recognize the positive difference they have made in the lives of their learners, colleagues, and patients, as well as the communities in which they live and serve. Come participate in the fun, energy, and music—you are sure to be moved by the creativity and commitment of the awardees. Our conference Welcome Reception with our conference partners immediately follows to keep the celebration going.

STFM Foundation Marathonaki Fun Run/Walk

When: Monday, May 4, 6:15–7:15 amWhere: Marriot New OrleansSocialize with colleagues, get some exercise, and raise money for the STFM Foundation at the STFM Foundation Marathonaki Run/Walk. We recommend a $50 tax-deductible donation, which includes a T-shirt. However, you are not required to donate to participate.

Wellness Afternoon Optional Activities

New Orleans Art Walk–Visual Thinking Strategies TourWhen: Monday, May 4, 2–4 pmWhere: To Be DeterminedCost: FreeParticipant Limit: 25This elective session is an interactive, participatory group experience in which we will look at art together according to the Visual Thinking Strategies approach (VTS).As detailed in the article stfm.org/familymedicine/vol37issue4/Reilly250, the integration of medical humanities in resident education provides a rich, often enjoyable and refreshing experience for exploring the power of seeing with sustained attention, deep reflection, communal listening and team bonding, and the development of empathy. The VTS teaching methodology invites all participants to express their opinions of an artistic piece, receive positive affirmations for their contributions, value the contributions of others to deeper seeing what may not be initially visible, and to sustain attention on the artistic work.This 2-hour session includes the viewing of art followed by debriefing and explaining the VTS approach, along with a conversation about applications to teaching. The final half hour provides an opportunity for participants to visit art on their own or in small groups, and to practice looking at art as we had done together as a group.

STFM Foundation “MediPalooza” at Mulates

(A fundraiser for the STFM Foundation)When: Monday, May 4, 5–7:30 pmWhere: Mulate's restaurant in New OrleansEnjoy an epic evening of music and fun while making connections with new and old friends at MediPalooza, an annual fundraiser for the STFM Foundation!To purchase a Bronze sponsorship (8 tickets) or individual tickets, visit //www.stfm.org/foundation/medipalooza/

Creating a Wellness Plan for Your Financial Life

(A fundraiser for the STFM Foundation)When: Tuesday, May 5, 12:30–1:30 pmWhere: Marriot New OrleansCost: FreeParticipant Limit: 75Join the STFM Foundation and Stephen Dunbar III, JD, CLU, executive vice president of Southeast Complex and Financial Advisor with Equitable Advisors, who will discuss getting started with a savings plan, maximizing benefits from a retirement plan, insurance, education, and estate planning.

STFM Collaboratives and Special Project Teams Meetings

STFM Collaboratives and Special Project Teams will have several opportunities to meet at the 2026 Annual Spring Conference. These meetings are open to all members who would like to get involved. A signup sheet will be sent out to Collaboratives in early January to select meeting options. A final list of meetings with dates/times will be provided on the STFM Website and in the conference mobile app. Contact tbrazelton@stfm.org if you have questions.

New Faculty Scholars Presentations

(Powered by the STFM Foundation)Designed to be a catalyst for developing future STFM and academic family medicine leaders. The New Faculty Scholars program provides one year of coaching, learning, and networking opportunities both with senior leadership and other new faculty. Program funded by STFM Foundation. For more about the program go to this link. To view these scholars’ presentations, use the track designation (NFS) when you search for sessions online.

How to Sign Up for an Optional Activity