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Need Technical Assistance? ✉ tech@vfairs.com
Planning Committee Members
Nikki Massie, MA – OAC Chair
Nina Crowley, PhD, RDN, LD – Committee Co-chair
Elizabeth Paul – Committee Co-chair
Tammy Beaumont, RN, BSN
Jaime Fivecoat, MBA
Debe Gau
Jason Krynicki
Christopher D. Still, DO, FACN, FACP
Ava Zebrick
Michelle Vicari – Staff Liaison
Sub Committees and Ad Hoc Committees
Program Agenda Committee
Nikki Massie, MA – OAC Chair
Robert Kushner, MD – Committee Co-chair
Paul Davidson, PhD – Committee Co-chair
Tammy Beaumont, RN, BSN
Ted Kyle, RPh, MBA
Merrill Littleberry, LCSW, LCDC, CCM, CI-CPT
Christopher D. Still, DO, FACN, FACP
Cassie I. Story, RD
Michelle Vicari – Staff Liaison
Welcome Committee
Nikki Massie, MA – OAC Chair
Debe Gau – Committee Chair
Nanette Adams, MED, LPC
Kesha Calicutt
Marty Enokson
Jaime Fivecoat, MBA
Mary Grisaffi
Yelena Kibasova
Jason Krynicki
Scholarship Subcommittee
Nikki Massie, MA – OAC Chair
Pam Davis, RN, BSN, CBN, MBA
Amber Huett-Garcia, BS, MPA
Welcome to the premier virtual conference experience designed for forward-thinking professionals. vFAIRS brings together innovators, thought leaders, and change-makers from across the globe to share insights, forge connections, and drive meaningful growth.
Our immersive virtual environment offers all the benefits of a physical conference with none of the limitations. Network with peers, engage with industry experts, and gain actionable strategies to transform your business—all from the comfort of your preferred location.
Of immersive content and networking opportunities
Industry experts and thought leaders
Connect with participants from over 30 countries
To on-demand content for 30 days after the event
Explore our carefully curated schedule designed to maximize learning and networking opportunities.
July
13:00Ready to make your voice heard where it matters most? This dynamic session will show you how change happens at the national and state levels and how you can be part of it. Learn how laws and policies shape obesity care, how to confidently share your story with decision-makers and how OAC advocates are driving progress across the country. Whether you are new to advocacy or ready to take the next step, you’ll leave energized, informed and ready to make an impact.
Obesity Action Coalition
Obesity Action Coalition
Vice President, Advocacy & Research, Obesity Action Coalition
Vice President, Advocacy & Research, Obesity Action Coalition
CEO & President, Obesity Action Coalition
CEO & President, Obesity Action Coalition
Senior Advocacy Manager, Obesity Action Coalition
Senior Advocacy Manager, Obesity Action Coalition
July
13:00There are so many ways to make a difference with OAC. This engaging session highlights the many ways you can stay connected and involved throughout the year. Learn how to participate in programs, support awareness efforts, share your story, volunteer and connect with the OAC community. Whether you are looking to deepen your involvement or just getting started, you’ll discover meaningful ways to engage and help strengthen the movement.
Director of Membership and Development, Obesity Action Coalition
Director of Membership and Development, Obesity Action Coalition
Marketing and Communications Manager, Obesity Action Coalition
Marketing and Communications Manager, Obesity Action Coalition
Director of Programs, Obesity Action Coalition
Director of Programs, Obesity Action Coalition
July
16:00Join us for a casual meet and greet designed for Thrive Together programs participants. This is a chance to connect with other families, share experiences, and build supportive relationships within the Thrive Together community.
July
17:00This mixer is all about celebrating YOU – our fantastic Community+ members! Your continuous support and dedication to the OAC community make all the difference. Together, we can achieve greatness and create an even stronger community! Join us for fun conversations while enjoying refreshments with fellow OAC enthusiasts. Optional: Show your OAC pride and unity by wearing blue or green, or both!
Sign up for our community today to join in the fun!
July
19:00Join us Thursday evening for a meaningful and engaging conversation about bias and the real experiences of people living with obesity. Moderated by James Zervios, Senior Vice President and COO of the Obesity Action Coalition, this interactive panel will feature individuals sharing personal perspectives about how bias shows up in everyday life, healthcare and society.
The evening will begin with time to meet and mingle while enjoying light appetizers, followed by a candid and thoughtful discussion that invites reflection, questions and participation from the audience. Together, we will explore how lived experience can help shape understanding, challenge assumptions and move us toward more respectful, compassionate care.
Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Obesity Action Coalition
Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Obesity Action Coalition
July
07:00Get ready to move, stretch, and groove with fun and engaging workouts for all fitness and skill levels. Enjoy energizing classes like yoga, Zumba, and other exciting movement sessions designed to get you feeling strong and uplifted. These classes are led by instructors who truly understand the journey, creating a welcoming space where you can feel supported, empowered, and celebrated. Let’s move together!
July
08:00Start your day with breakfast and a warm welcome from our Welcome Committee. If you’re new or simply looking to meet others, look for tables hosted by Welcome Committee members who would be happy to sit with you, answer questions and help introduce you to fellow attendees. Prefer a quiet start to your morning? Unlabeled tables will also be available if you’d like to enjoy breakfast on your own before the day’s activities begin.
July
09:00Kick off the Your Weight Matters National Convention with a warm welcome from Obesity Action Coalition leadership. This opening session sets the tone for the days ahead, highlighting the Convention’s core theme of Support, Education and Advocacy. Together, we will reflect on the power of community, the importance of science-based education and the role each of us plays in advancing understanding and improving the lives of people affected by obesity.
CEO & President, Obesity Action Coalition
CEO & President, Obesity Action Coalition
Obesity Action Coalition National Board Chair
Obesity Action Coalition National Board Chair
July
09:25What should good obesity care actually look like today?
In this session, obesity medicine expert Kimberly Gudzune, MD, MPH, will explain the new Standards of Care for Obesity and what they really mean for the care you receive. If you want to better understand what comprehensive, stigma-free obesity care should include — and what you deserve as a patient — this session will help set the standard.
Ever feel like your mind is constantly focused on food — what to eat, when to eat or trying not to eat? You’re not imagining it and you’re not alone. Many people living with obesity experience persistent thoughts about food often called food noise.
July
10:05Internalized weight bias happens when society’s stigma about weight becomes self-directed, affecting how you think, feel and engage with healthcare. You’re not alone — and it’s not your fault.
In this session, psychologist Robyn Pashby, PhD, will explain how internalized bias develops and share evidence-informed strategies to recognize and challenge it. You’ll learn practical ways to foster self-compassion, build resilience and practice kindness toward yourself while navigating your health. If you’ve ever wondered why negative thoughts about weight linger, this session can help you break the cycle.
Dr. Robyn Pashby is a licensed clinical health psychologist and the founder of Health Psychology Partners, a group of behavioral health clinicians who specialize in the psychological and behavioral treatment of obesity and related health conditions. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Pashby has authored or co-authored peer-reviewed scientific articles, book chapters, and co-authored a book published in July 2025 entitled “The New Food Fight: How the Weight Management and Eating Disorders Fields Became So Divided and What We Can Do About It.” She currently serves as Co-Chair of the Clinical Practice Committee for The Obesity Society, the chair of the Mental Health Committee for the National Board of Directors for the Obesity Action Coalition, and as chair of The Obesity and Weight Management Advisory Group for the American Diabetes Association. She is also a Research Assistant Professor of Psychology at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine.
Before founding Health Psychology Partners, Dr. Pashby served as a clinician for National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded research projects exploring the prevention and treatment of obesity. She also helped establish and served as the Assistant Director and lead psychologist for the National Center for Weight and Wellness in Washington DC. Dr. Pashby lives in Washington DC with her husband and daughter and their two dogs.
July
10:45Obesity treatment is evolving rapidly, with new medications, procedures and research emerging every year. But with so many headlines and social media claims, it can be hard to know what is truly new, what is realistic today and what may still be years away.
In this session, an obesity care expert will break down the latest developments in plain language, explain how current treatments fit into the bigger picture and explore what the future of obesity care may look like over the next 5–10 years. You’ll also learn how to better interpret news coverage and misinformation about obesity treatments.
July
11:30Take a break and enjoy some free time before the next session begins. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, explore the Health Hub, visit with exhibitors or connect with fellow attendees. Use this time to recharge, gather helpful resources and continue meaningful conversations.
Stop by the Creation Station — a fun, interactive space where you can share your voice and creativity. Record social media content, be a guest on a podcast, share your story or create the next viral moment. Whether you want to inspire others, advocate for better obesity care or capture your Convention experience, the Creation Station gives you the tools and space to make it happen. Not sure where to start or feeling a little camera shy? No problem. Our team will be there to help guide you, spark ideas and even co-create with you so it feels easy, fun and welcoming for everyone.
July
12:00Grab your lunch and explore the room. Tables are hosted by experts on a variety of topics, offering a relaxed chance to sit down, ask questions, share experiences and join meaningful conversations. Look for the table signs to find a topic that interests you and pull up a chair.
Meals are included with Full Convention Registration.
July
13:15Tacos meet nutrition in this fun, interactive cooking workshop with Chef Egg Erik Berlin. Learn how to build flavorful, protein-packed tacos using simple ingredients and smart kitchen techniques. Chef Egg will demonstrate several easy recipes, share helpful cooking tips and kitchen hacks, and offer tasting samples along the way. Participants will also receive recipe cards to take home so they can recreate these protein-forward tacos in their own kitchens.
July
13:15Your story has power. In this interactive workshop, attendees will learn how to shape their personal experiences with obesity into a short, meaningful story that can be shared in just 60 seconds. Through guided exercises and supportive conversation, you will discover how to highlight the moments that matter most, communicate your message clearly and connect with others through lived experience. Whether you want to advocate for better care, educate others or simply share your journey, this session will help you craft a story that is authentic, impactful and easy to share in conversations, presentations or social media. By the end of the workshop, you will walk away with a powerful story of your own and the confidence to share it.
Piper Hendricks, CEO of Stories Change Power, is a former human rights litigator, documentary filmmaker, and recognized advocacy expert. Piper has a passion for the power of story, particularly its potential to bridge divides and promote belonging. In a variety of formats, she's employed storytelling to inspire action; whether in the courtroom, on the silver screen, or on Capitol Hill, she champions change to promote opportunity for all. Piper founded Stories Change Power to help individuals and organizations claim their power, share their stories, and change the world.
July
14:15Have you ever been at a doctor’s office, a family gathering, or anywhere in public and someone commented on your weight in a way that made you feel uncomfortable–but your mind went blank or you responded in a way that you later regretted? Maybe you wish you had called them out, stood up for yourself more, or even just let it go. If you've ever wished for a "do-over" to handle situations like these differently next time, this workshop is for you. Join us to talk through real-life scenarios shared by OAC members about their experiences with weight bias. Together, we will generate ideas for things we can say or do in these situations that help us feel comfortable, empowered, and proud. You’ll hear inspiring ideas from other members, learn more about personal boundaries, and leave with practical tools you can use right away.
Dr. Robyn Pashby is a licensed clinical health psychologist and the founder of Health Psychology Partners, a group of behavioral health clinicians who specialize in the psychological and behavioral treatment of obesity and related health conditions. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Pashby has authored or co-authored peer-reviewed scientific articles, book chapters, and co-authored a book published in July 2025 entitled “The New Food Fight: How the Weight Management and Eating Disorders Fields Became So Divided and What We Can Do About It.” She currently serves as Co-Chair of the Clinical Practice Committee for The Obesity Society, the chair of the Mental Health Committee for the National Board of Directors for the Obesity Action Coalition, and as chair of The Obesity and Weight Management Advisory Group for the American Diabetes Association. She is also a Research Assistant Professor of Psychology at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine.
Before founding Health Psychology Partners, Dr. Pashby served as a clinician for National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded research projects exploring the prevention and treatment of obesity. She also helped establish and served as the Assistant Director and lead psychologist for the National Center for Weight and Wellness in Washington DC. Dr. Pashby lives in Washington DC with her husband and daughter and their two dogs.
July
15:30Get ready to move, stretch, and groove with fun and engaging workouts for all fitness and skill levels. Enjoy energizing classes like yoga, Zumba, and other exciting movement sessions designed to get you feeling strong and uplifted. These classes are led by instructors who truly understand the journey, creating a welcoming space where you can feel supported, empowered, and celebrated. Let’s move together!
July
16:30Take a break and enjoy some free time before the next session begins. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, explore the Health Hub, visit with exhibitors or connect with fellow attendees. Use this time to recharge, gather helpful resources and continue meaningful conversations.
Stop by the Creation Station — a fun, interactive space where you can share your voice and creativity. Record social media content, be a guest on a podcast, share your story or create the next viral moment. Whether you want to inspire others, advocate for better obesity care or capture your Convention experience, the Creation Station gives you the tools and space to make it happen. Not sure where to start or feeling a little camera shy? No problem. Our team will be there to help guide you, spark ideas and even co-create with you so it feels easy, fun and welcoming for everyone.
July
16:30Focus Groups (By Invitation Only) These small-group discussions provide an opportunity for attendees to share their perspectives on specific topics, products or services related to weight and health. Participants are selected in advance based on criteria provided by the focus group organizers. If you have been invited to participate, you will receive details ahead of time including your assigned group and the room where your session will take place.
July
18:00An ocean-themed night of fun, connection and community - Dive into a fun, ocean-themed evening filled with music, laughter and creative costumes. Whether you come as a jellyfish, a pirate or just in beachy vibes, this night is all about connecting with others and celebrating the supportive community we build together. And if you’d rather be an onlooker than a costume wearer, that’s perfectly OK too — come as you are and enjoy the fun.
July
07:00Get ready to move, stretch, and groove with fun and engaging workouts for all fitness and skill levels. Enjoy energizing classes like yoga, Zumba, and other exciting movement sessions designed to get you feeling strong and uplifted. These classes are led by instructors who truly understand the journey, creating a welcoming space where you can feel supported, empowered, and celebrated. Let’s move together!
July
08:00Start your day with breakfast and a warm welcome from our Welcome Committee. If you’re new or simply looking to meet others, look for tables hosted by Welcome Committee members who would be happy to sit with you, answer questions and help introduce you to fellow attendees. Prefer a quiet start to your morning? Unlabeled tables will also be available if you’d like to enjoy breakfast on your own before the day’s activities begin.
July
09:00Begin the day with a gathering led by OAC leadership focused on the strength of this community and the shared mission that brings us together. This session reflects on the impact of support, education and advocacy while looking ahead at how individuals, families, healthcare professionals and advocates can continue moving the mission forward together.
CEO & President, Obesity Action Coalition
CEO & President, Obesity Action Coalition
OAC Vice Chair/Secretary
OAC Vice Chair/Secretary
July
09:25Ever feel like your mind is constantly focused on food — what to eat, when to eat or trying not to eat? You’re not imagining it and you’re not alone. Many people living with obesity experience persistent thoughts about food often called food noise.
In this session, registered dietitian and obesity care specialist Colleen Tewksbury, PhD, MPH, RD, CSOWM, LDN, will explain what food noise is and why it happens. You’ll learn how biology, brain chemistry, emotions and your environment all interact to drive ongoing food thoughts and urges and why this experience is not about willpower or personal failure.
This session offers understanding and practical perspective for anyone who has struggled with constant thoughts about food.
Colleen Tewksbury is an Assistant Professor in Nutrition Science at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. Dr. Tewksbury has been a Registered Dietitian at the Penn Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program since 2014, is the Associate Director of Nutrition Programs at Penn Nursing, and the Class of 1940 Bicentennial Term Chair. Her research focuses on obesity and weight management, and she leads several funded studies on the effects of pharmacotherapy on nutrition and health outcomes.
July
10:05GLP-1 medications are changing more than individual treatment plans. They are reshaping conversations, care delivery and even how society understands obesity. But what do these changes really mean for society as a whole?
These therapies are influencing how Americans live and spend, with ripple effects across restaurants, grocery stores, food manufacturers, fitness clubs, healthcare services and even the airline industry. In this session, obesity medicine specialist Robert Kushner, MD, shines a light on this unpredictable phenomenon, one that is rarely driven by a single medication class and helps place it into context.
Dr. Kushner is Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Director of the Center for Lifestyle Medicine at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago. A nationally recognized expert in obesity medicine, he has dedicated his career to advancing clinical care, education and research in the field. Dr. Kushner is Program Co-chair for the OAC National Convention and has served in a leadership role on the Convention Committee for nine years. A former member of the OAC National Board of Directors, he is a strong advocate for patient-centered, evidence-based obesity care. Dr. Kushner has authored more than 250 scientific articles and books and frequently lectures nationally and internationally on obesity prevention and treatment.
July
10:45In this session, exercise and health expert Renee Rogers, PhD, will break down body composition and fitness and what they actually tell you about your health, metabolism and daily function. You’ll learn what common measurements mean, how they are assessed and the science behind what they actually measure, along with how they relate to strength, mobility, energy, overall wellbeing and day-to-day quality of life.
Dr. Rogers will share evidence on where the science currently stands, what we still don’t know and why there is no single approach that works for everyone. Drawing on years of research and clinical experience, she will explain why obesity care and fitness strategies need to be personalized and patient-centered, especially as we learn more about how physical activity interacts with newer treatments and affects biological and body composition changes.
She will also share practical ways to use this information to set realistic, personal health goals that support how you want to feel and function each day.
July
11:30Take a break and enjoy some free time before the next session begins. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, explore the Health Hub, visit with exhibitors or connect with fellow attendees. Use this time to recharge, gather helpful resources and continue meaningful conversations.
Stop by the Creation Station — a fun, interactive space where you can share your voice and creativity. Record social media content, be a guest on a podcast, share your story or create the next viral moment. Whether you want to inspire others, advocate for better obesity care or capture your Convention experience, the Creation Station gives you the tools and space to make it happen. Not sure where to start or feeling a little camera shy? No problem. Our team will be there to help guide you, spark ideas and even co-create with you so it feels easy, fun and welcoming for everyone.
July
12:00Grab your lunch and explore the room. Tables are hosted by experts on a variety of topics, offering a relaxed chance to sit down, ask questions, share experiences and join meaningful conversations. Look for the table signs to find a topic that interests you and pull up a chair.
Meals are included with Full Convention Registration.
July
13:15This workshop uses evidence-based cognitive behavioral strategies to address body-related self-criticism, comparison, and distress. Through guided exercises and discussion, participants gain practical tools to support a more compassionate and functional relationship with their bodies.
July
14:15Looking for better snack ideas that keep you satisfied? Join Chef Egg Erik Berlin for a hands-on workshop focused on quick, protein-forward snacks. Through simple recipes and practical tips, you’ll learn how to create balanced bites that are easy to prepare and full of flavor. Enjoy tasting samples and leave with recipe cards and ideas you can use right away.
July
15:30Get ready to move, stretch, and groove with fun and engaging workouts for all fitness and skill levels. Enjoy energizing classes like yoga, Zumba, and other exciting movement sessions designed to get you feeling strong and uplifted. These classes are led by instructors who truly understand the journey, creating a welcoming space where you can feel supported, empowered, and celebrated. Let’s move together!
July
16:30Take a break and enjoy some free time before the next session begins. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, explore the Health Hub, visit with exhibitors or connect with fellow attendees. Use this time to recharge, gather helpful resources and continue meaningful conversations.
Stop by the Creation Station — a fun, interactive space where you can share your voice and creativity. Record social media content, be a guest on a podcast, share your story or create the next viral moment. Whether you want to inspire others, advocate for better obesity care or capture your Convention experience, the Creation Station gives you the tools and space to make it happen. Not sure where to start or feeling a little camera shy? No problem. Our team will be there to help guide you, spark ideas and even co-create with you so it feels easy, fun and welcoming for everyone.
July
16:30Focus Groups (By Invitation Only) These small-group discussions provide an opportunity for attendees to share their perspectives on specific topics, products or services related to weight and health. Participants are selected in advance based on criteria provided by the focus group organizers. If you have been invited to participate, you will receive details ahead of time including your assigned group and the room where your session will take place.
July
18:00Join us for a slightly dressed-up evening where new and old friends and meaningful conversation come together. This dinner features a brief presentation followed by one of our favorite traditions — community sharing. You’re welcome to listen, share or simply enjoy being part of the moment. It’s a chance to slow down, connect with others who understand and close out the convention feeling encouraged, inspired and supported.
We're proud to partner with these industry-leading organizations to bring you the best virtual event experience.
Lunaris Digital crafts immersive digital ecosystems for enterprises seeking innovation at scale. As the Gold Sponsor, they champion creativity, technology, and collaboration across the global tech landscape.
Aureon Dynamics pioneers intelligent automation platforms that blend data, design, and decision-making. Their Platinum Sponsorship underscores their mission to empower industries with smarter, faster, and more sustainable technologies.
Verdantia Labs develops eco-smart technologies that connect innovation with sustainability. As the Bronze Sponsor, they promote responsible tech design and environmentally conscious innovation.
QuantumEdge Solutions develops advanced software and infrastructure systems designed to enhance performance, scalability, and security. As the Technology Partner, they bring cutting-edge innovation and technical expertise that power the digital backbone of the event.
TechNova Solutions is a global leader in cloud infrastructure and enterprise software. As a Platinum Sponsor, TechNova supports innovation by empowering organizations with cutting-edge AI and automation tools that drive digital transformation across industries.
Omnex Connect delivers seamless communication infrastructure for large-scale digital events. Their sponsorship powers reliable connectivity and meaningful interactions among attendees, exhibitors, and speakers alike.
HelixCore Technologies leads the charge in next-generation analytics, automation, and data security. Their role as Innovation Partner reflects their passion for redefining what’s possible through intelligent systems.
About Convention
The Your Weight Matters Convention is an educational program proudly developed and hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition.
OAC Vice Chair/Secretary
Director of Programs, Obesity Action Coalition
Marketing and Communications Manager, Obesity Action Coalition
Director of Membership and Development, Obesity Action Coalition
Senior Advocacy Manager, Obesity Action Coalition
Vice President, Advocacy & Research, Obesity Action Coalition
Obesity Action Coalition
Obesity Action Coalition National Board Chair
Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Obesity Action Coalition
CEO & President, Obesity Action Coalition
READ BIO
Piper Hendricks, CEO of Stories Change Power, is a former human rights litigator, documentary filmmaker, and recognized advocacy expert. Piper has a passion for the power of story, particularly its potential to bridge divides and promote belonging. In a variety of formats, she's employed storytelling to inspire action; whether in the courtroom, on the silver screen, or on Capitol Hill, she champions change to promote opportunity for all. Piper founded Stories Change Power to help individuals and organizations claim their power, share their stories, and change the world.
READ BIO
READ BIO
Dr. Robyn Pashby is a licensed clinical health psychologist and the founder of Health Psychology Partners, a group of behavioral health clinicians who specialize in the psychological and behavioral treatment of obesity and related health conditions. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Pashby has authored or co-authored peer-reviewed scientific articles, book chapters, and co-authored a book published in July 2025 entitled “The New Food Fight: How the Weight Management and Eating Disorders Fields Became So Divided and What We Can Do About It.” She currently serves as Co-Chair of the Clinical Practice Committee for The Obesity Society, the chair of the Mental Health Committee for the National Board of Directors for the Obesity Action Coalition, and as chair of The Obesity and Weight Management Advisory Group for the American Diabetes Association. She is also a Research Assistant Professor of Psychology at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine.
Before founding Health Psychology Partners, Dr. Pashby served as a clinician for National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded research projects exploring the prevention and treatment of obesity. She also helped establish and served as the Assistant Director and lead psychologist for the National Center for Weight and Wellness in Washington DC. Dr. Pashby lives in Washington DC with her husband and daughter and their two dogs.
READ BIO
Dr. Kushner is Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Director of the Center for Lifestyle Medicine at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago. A nationally recognized expert in obesity medicine, he has dedicated his career to advancing clinical care, education and research in the field. Dr. Kushner is Program Co-chair for the OAC National Convention and has served in a leadership role on the Convention Committee for nine years. A former member of the OAC National Board of Directors, he is a strong advocate for patient-centered, evidence-based obesity care. Dr. Kushner has authored more than 250 scientific articles and books and frequently lectures nationally and internationally on obesity prevention and treatment.
READ BIO
Colleen Tewksbury is an Assistant Professor in Nutrition Science at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. Dr. Tewksbury has been a Registered Dietitian at the Penn Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program since 2014, is the Associate Director of Nutrition Programs at Penn Nursing, and the Class of 1940 Bicentennial Term Chair. Her research focuses on obesity and weight management, and she leads several funded studies on the effects of pharmacotherapy on nutrition and health outcomes.
Find answers to common questions about our virtual event platform, registration process, and more.
You may register online up until convention. You can register on-site at the event.
The room block opens January 26
Guest room: 1 King or 2 Queens $159.00/ night (+taxes &fees)
Guest room: 1 King or 2 queens with Balcony $199.00/ night (+taxes &fees)
This hotel does not provide a shuttle service- We recommend Uber, Lyft or Mears Shuttle Service; $20 Fee (one way) Reservation Required
Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld®
6677 Sea Harbor Drive,
Orlando, Florida 32821 USA
Check-in: 4:00 pm
Check-out: 11:00 am
The OAC is committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for all attendees. If you require a reasonable accommodation due to a disability or other need, please email us at convention@obesityaction.org. We’ll work with you to meet your needs to the best of our ability.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, SeaWorld® Orlando, Universal CityWalk®, Universal Studios Florida®, Walt Disney World® Resort and more are nearby Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld®.
Yes, Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld® has multiple pools on-site for hotel guests:
Outdoor Pool (Outdoor), R Aqua Zone (Outdoor Waterpark), Water Slide
All CE Credits will be offered through Taylor College, more information will be added soon!
Our scholarships will open in the spring!
Here are some suggestions on what to pack so you can be fully prepared:
Thursday Night: Community+ Mixer (Show your OAC pride and unity by wearing blue or green!), Thrive Together Meet & Greet, Panel (wear whatever you are comfortable in)
A.M. Walk or Exercise: Lightweight athletic or casual wear and sneakers. You won’t need to bring any exercise equipment, but you will want to bring a reusable water bottle to fill up beforehand.
General and Breakout Sessions: Smart Casual or everyday wear. You’ll want to dress comfortably enough to sit through the educational sessions and walk around the EXPO Hall. We recommend bringing a light sweater, as ballroom temperatures are tough to regulate and are often on the cooler side.
Friday Night Social Event: Theme for the costume dance TBD!
Saturday: Wear your Convention t-shirt! All attendees will receive an official YWM Convention t-shirt at registration check-in, so let’s wear them together as an OAC Community.
Saturday Night Social Event: Gala, this is your chance to dress up, but no pressure—it’s definitely not required. Come however you are comfortable.
Here are some suggestions:
Pack a sweater! Meeting rooms can get chilly.
Bring a camera, video camera or be prepared to use your phone camera. You’ll want to take tons of photos to capture memories so they last a lifetime.
Don’t forget your Thursday green and blue, Friday night costume, and your Saturday Gala gear!!
Wear your Convention t-shirt on Saturday.
Be sure to bring sneakers for walks and group exercises.
Bring your bathing suit and lots of sunscreen!
Bring any vitamins and/or medications.
And most importantly, bring an open and positive attitude!
Your Weight Matters National Convention registration includes several (but not all) meals. Further details will be provided via future emails to registered attendees.
The OAC is committed to creating an environment where the healthy choice is the easy choice. We’ve worked closely with the chefs at the Renaissance and a registered dietitian to create balanced meal options designed to meet a variety of needs.
If you have specific dietary needs (allergies, vegetarian, etc.) or require a reasonable accommodation to fully participate, please notify us by emailing convention@obesityaction.org. We will make every effort to accommodate your request.
Yes, there are coffee/tea machines in each room.
Yes, each room has a mini fridge.
There are 5 restaurant options to choose from on the property.
Discounted daily self-parking for all guests of 75% discount on prevailing self-parking rates (currently $40.00 per day) valid Arrival July 21, 2026 and departure July 26, 2026
CE Credit Form
Coming soon.
Why Healthcare Professionals Attend
While our Your Weight Matters National Convention is geared toward patients/individuals concerned with weight and health, many healthcare professionals choose to attend to gain a better understanding of the issues their patients face and learn alongside them. The OAC’s Conventions are a great opportunity for healthcare professionals to learn more about:
Weight and Health
Nutrition
Weight Bias
Exercise
Treatment Options
And More!
CE Credit Information
The OAC will once again offer CE Credits for Your Weight Matters National Convention. Nurses and other health professionals can earn up to 13.5 CE credits when attending.
We strongly encourage health professionals to check their eligibility prior to registering to earn CE Credits at the Convention. As every state is different, you are encouraged to contact your state Board and give them the name of the class and tell them the course is Nursing approved, to confirm they will accept the course for CE.
When registering for the Convention, health professionals must select the ‘CE Credit Registration’ option for receiving CE Credits (which includes the additional fee for the CE certificate). Attendees can reach out directly to Taylor College at 1-800-743-4006 and reference the Obesity Action Coalition’s Your Weight Matters National Convention.
*Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider number CEP-3285, for up to 13.5 contact hours credit.
Questions?
If you have any questions regarding CE Credits, please contact us here.
A showcase of stunning visuals in one place.
Tell your event story through images
Tell your event story through images
Tell your event story through images
Tell your event story through images
Tell your event story through images
Tell your event story through images
Tell your event story through images
Tell your event story through images
