Building Our Collective Legacy Together
It feels like only yesterday that we were connecting in Baltimore. As we gear up for New Orleans 2026, I am pleased to report that our section is preparing for a program that is truly rigorous, practical, and collaborative.
This year's theme, Back to Basics: The Fundamentals of Forensic Science, has resonated deeply across our community. We have curated a program that looks at where we are and honors where we came from.
One of the most rewarding parts of building this program has been seeing our collective excellence represented on a worldwide scale. We are proud to announce a multinational lineup of speakers joining us from Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America. Seeing colleagues travel from all over the world to share their expertise highlights the vitality of our field. Whether it's a unique case study from another continent or a new take on a core methodology, this global exchange ensures our "Basics" are robust and universal. The following table highlights their expertise.
Region | Highlighted Expertise |
|---|---|
Africa | New advancements in identification protocols and regional forensic challenges. |
Asia | Population-specific dental data and mass casualty case studies. |
Australia | Integration of 3D surface scanning in patterned injury analysis. |
Europe | Innovations in biochemical age estimation and dental morphometrics. |
North America | The evolution of bitemark analysis and interdisciplinary collaborations. |
Program Highlights and New Logistics
We have been diligent in ensuring every voice has the space it needs to shine. Here is what you can look forward to:
- 33 Oral Scientific Sessions: We have worked hard to accommodate the significance of your work. As discussed at our last business meeting, we've implemented more slots for more comprehensive topics, ensuring that 15-minute constraints do not limit the depth of your findings.
- Poster Presentations and YFSF: Four scientific posters are set to be displayed! This remains an ideal platform for students and odontologists at all stages of their career to highlight concise findings in an intimate, engaging format.
- Hands-On Workshops: From dental identification to bitemark analysis and ethical debates, our workshops are designed for those who love hands-on skill-building.
Unable to Attend in Person? Stay Connected!
While we hope to see every one of you in the "Big Easy," we know that clinical schedules and life can get in the way. You can still be part of the legacy:
- AAFS Connect: Recorded workshop lectures and content will be available after the conference for CE credits.
- Review the Research: All scientific abstracts will be accessible via the AAFS portal. Take the time to read through the global research. It is the best way to stay current.
- Mentor from Afar: If you are unable to make the trip, reach out to a younger colleague who is attending. Your encouragement can be the "spark" that keeps them engaged in the section for years to come.
- Section Engagement: If you will not be able to attend the business meeting, please reach out to see how you can contribute to our 2027 planning or upcoming research initiatives.
Let us make New Orleans 2026 a true celebration of forensic odontology. The opportunity is vast, and together we will build a program that honors our roots while propelling us forward.
The views and opinions expressed in the articles contained in the Academy News are those of the identified authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Academy.