SER President’s Message – September 2026
SER President’s Message
September 2026
Two months have passed since the Annual Meeting brought us together to share research and exchange ideas. The 2026 meeting marked SER’s return to Phoenix, where the Society previously met in 1969, 1972, 1975, and most recently in 1978 under then-President Roger Detels. We were glad to hear positive feedback about another great meeting, our first in Phoenix in nearly 50 years. And yes, it was hot!
Nearly 1,100 registered attendees took part in an outstanding scientific program of workshops, symposia, oral abstract sessions, poster presentations, and professional development sessions, with opportunities to connect with colleagues and celebrate achievements and awards. And, all while working hard to stay cool and hydrated. It was excellent to see the strong turnout from programs in the area, particularly among students. We are grateful to everyone who attended, presented, organized or reviewed sessions, volunteered, or supported the meeting in other ways. Special thanks to the students and other volunteers who helped welcome us to Phoenix and supported the first SER Fun Run to be held indoors.
Looking forward:
Planning is already underway for our 2027 meetings. The virtual Mid-Year Meeting will be held February 1–5 and continues to grow in both its program and participation. Registration is once again free for SER members for the Mid-Year Meeting – an accessible way to learn about developments across the field and stay connected.
SER will be in Detroit for the Annual Meeting on June 15–18, and we are excited to bring the meeting there for the first time. The Marriott at the Renaissance Center puts us in downtown Detroit and directly on the RiverWalk. Detroit’s history and its connections to environmental and occupational health, race, and public policy are also among the reasons we are looking forward to SER 2027. The meeting also marks a return to the Midwest and brings SER close to the many great epidemiology programs and public health institutions in the region.
Submissions are now open for symposia, workshops, professional development sessions, and breakfast and lunchtime sessions for the Mid-Year and Annual Meetings. Mid-Year abstract submissions will open September 23, with abstract submissions for Detroit following later this fall.
Other ways to connect with SER:
Webinars, podcasts, committees, mentoring, and other activities offer ways to participate in SER throughout the year. Upcoming SER Presents programming includes a September 9 journal club on recent work examining stagnation in U.S. life expectancy and a two-day global virtual conference on September 17 and 18 focused on scientific dissemination and research capacity in lower- and middle-income countries.
I look forward to working with the Board, SER staff, and members during my time as president. Please contact me with your questions or suggestions about SER – I would be glad to hear from you.
Brian Whitcomb