NCAB/AALAS - Thursday

NCAB AALAS

NCAB Seminar 2026 Agenda

THURSDAY

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Exhibit Hall Dedicated Time

BREAKFAST AND EXHIBIT HALL TIME – 8:00 am - 9:00 am

LUNCH AND EXHIBIT HALL TIME – 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

EXHIBIT HALL BREAKDOWN – 3:00 pm

ENCORE

9:00 – 10:00 am – Platinum Sponsorship – Quip Labs

9:15 – 10:00 am – Down the Rabbit Hole: Strategies for Social Housing Rabbits in a Research Setting

Speaker – Vicky Gould, MS, ALAT, and Ashley Vinar, BS LAT, Priority One Services, Bethesda, MD

Abstract: This session will highlight strategies to support successful social housing of New Zealand White rabbits in research settings.

10:30 – 11:00 am – It Takes a Village: A Collaborative Approach to Eliminating Ornithonyssus bacoti

Speaker – Mario Sandoval LATG, Priority One Services, Bethesda, MD

Abstract: This presentation showcases how NIH/DVR successfully eradicated an Ornithonyssus bacoti outbreak through multidisciplinary collaboration.

11:00 – 11:30 am – Care and Use of African Dormice in Animal Facilities

Speaker – Deepti Chadalavada, DVM, PhD, DACLAM, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, Bethesda, MD

Abstract: This presentation will provide an overview of the care and use of African dormice in animal facility settings, including routine husbandry practices, common health and management concerns, enrichment strategies, and considerations related to their use in research.

1:00 - 3:00 pm – Tech Talks

Abstract: Tech Talks are a competition for technicians to gain experience with public speaking. It is designed for any technician to present on any topic related to their experience. It is a terrific way to work on public presentation skills. Like poster submissions, Tech Talks award monetary prizes to the top three placements. Come join us as we root for our contestants and learn something new along the way.

Speaker Order

Vicky Gould, Research Specialist II, Priority One Services, Bethesda, MD

Refining Blood Glucose Monitoring for Diabetic NHPs Through Training

Jessika Lisboa, BSc, BS, LATG, Janelia, Ashburn, VA

Establishing an Animal Health Program for Danionella spp: Tiny Fish, Big Challenge

Annalise Mang, University of Maryland, College Park, MD

From Misconceptions to Understanding

Emily Minton, AST Scientist, AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, MD

Using Room Ownership Goals to Streamline Animal Health Testing

Jamie Schetrompf, ALAT, Assistant Project Manager, JS Technologies, Bethesda, MD

Development of Stretching Models for Breast Cancer Intervention

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OVATION BALLROOM

09:00 – 10:00 am – From Cage Side to Animal Care and Use Committee: How Daily Animal Care Supports PAM and IACUC Oversight

Speaker – Kathryn Hall, LATG, CPIA, National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research, Bethesda, MD

Abstract: This presentation will explore how routine animal care practices support Post-Approval Monitoring (PAM) and strengthen IACUC oversight. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of the connection between daily observations, protocol compliance, and institutional animal care responsibilities.

10:30 – 10:45 am – Platinum Sponsorship – Tecniplast

10:45 – 11:30 am – Using Canvas Learning Management System for IACUC Orientation

Speaker – Julia Krout, Delaware Valley University, Doylestown, PA

Abstract: This session will review how Canvas LMS was used to create an IACUC course using built-in features for an online teaching platform.

1:00 – 1:15 pm – Platinum Sponsorship – Animal Specialties And Provisions

1:15 – 2:45 pm – Beyond the Booth: Building Meaningful Connections in the Laboratory Animal Science Community

Speaker – René Ketelsen, Shepherd Specialty Papers

Abstract: Success in the laboratory animal science industry depends on more than products and services—it depends on relationships. This interactive vendor panel will explore practical strategies for building meaningful connections, strengthening long-term partnerships, and expanding professional networks across the research community. Panelists will share insights from conferences, trade shows, association meetings, and year-round engagement, highlighting how effective networking supports collaboration, professional growth, problem-solving, and operational improvement. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and leave with practical approaches for developing valuable industry relationships at any career stage.

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HEADLINER BALLROOM

9:00 – 10:00 am – DIY High Precision Rodent Surgery Table

Speaker – Lee Chedester, DVM, DACLAM, Kelly Government Services, Bethesda, MD

Abstract: You, YES, YOU can make your very own HIGH Precision Rodent surgery table. Using a $10 hacksaw, a file, eight screws and some angle aluminum you too can make a surgery table that outperforms versions selling for thousands!

10:30 – 11:15 am – Leading Program Transformation During Institutional Change: A Change Management Perspective

Speaker – Alireza Hosseini, MD, Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA

Abstract: This presentation examines the transformation of a laboratory animal science program during a university merger through a change-management lens. Attendees will gain practical strategies for navigating institutional change, engaging stakeholders, aligning operations, and sustaining program quality throughout the transition.

11:15 – 11:30 am – Platinum Sponsorship – VRL Diagnostic

1:15 – 3:15 pm – Thriving While Caring, A Workshop on Compassion Fatigue, Resiliency, and Well-being

Speaker – CDR Temeri Wilder, DVM, MPH, DACLAM, DACVPM, Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare, Bethesda, MD

Abstract: This interactive workshop will provide participants with a practical understanding of compassion fatigue, including its signs, symptoms, contributing factors, and impact on individuals and lab animal teams. Participants will explore the concept of compassion resiliency - the ability to maintain empathy, purpose, and professional effectiveness while navigating the emotional challenges of caregiving. Evidence-informed strategies for strengthening resiliency will be presented, including self-care practices, boundary setting, communication techniques, stress management, and the development of supportive professional networks. Through facilitated discussions, reflective exercises, and collaborative learning, attendees will examine real-world experiences and identify actionable approaches for promoting personal and organizational well-being. Participants will work in small groups to develop a personalized Compassion Resiliency Action Plan that can be implemented in their professional and personal lives. By the conclusion of the workshop, participants will leave with practical tools, resources, and strategies to recognize compassion fatigue, cultivate resiliency, support colleagues, and foster healthier workplaces.

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SPOTLIGHT

9:00 – 11:00 am – Advanced Suture Workshop

Speaker - CPT Tom Thomas, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, DACLAM, Chesapeake Beach, MD

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LIMELIGHT BALLROOM

8:30 – 10:00 am – Beginner Suture I Workshop

Speaker - Shannon Stutler, DVM, MPH, DACLAM, University of Maryland, College Park, MD

10:00 – 11:30 am – Beginner Suture II Workshop

Speaker - Shannon Stutler, DVM, MPH, DACLAM, University of Maryland, College Park, MD

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FEATURE BALLROOM

8:45 am – 11:15 am – Professional Development

Host: Matthew Grant, BS, RLATG, 2027 NCAB President-Elect, Priority One Services, Bethesda, MD

Abstract: Career guidance, resume reviews, interviewing practice, general job seeking advice and resources.

1:00 – 3:00 pm – Professional Development

Host: Matthew Grant, BS, RLATG, 2027 NCAB President-Elect, Priority One Services, Bethesda, MD

Abstract: Career guidance, resume reviews, interviewing practice, general job seeking advice and resources.

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References to any persons, organizations, activities, products, services, websites, etc., do not constitute or imply the endorsement, recommendation, or favor of NCAB/AALAS or Council members acting on its behalf.