ATS 2013 offers attendees several avenues for networking with colleagues.
Photos by Doug Cody

At ATS 2013, scientists and clinicians—from early career professionals to seasoned experts—will have many opportunities to connect with each other. This face-to-face interaction opens up new possibilities for collaboration, which may lead to new discoveries in science and patient care.

“The International Conference moves science and medicine forward in just a few days, in a way that is almost palpable,” said Anne Dixon, MD, director of pulmonary and critical care medicine at the University of Vermont and director of clinical research at the Vermont Lung Center in Burlington. “It is a time to learn and exchange ideas about cutting-edge medicine and science, it is an occasion when we come together to both celebrate our profession and nurture the development of the next generation in this field, and it is an opportunity to hone our vision for the future.”

In addition to the Assembly membership meetings and dinners, the Society has programmed several networking events for ATS 2013. Here are just a few ways you can connect.

ATS Foundation Research Program Benefit
Hours: 7 p.m. Saturday, May 18
Location: Grand Ballroom Philadelphia Marriott Downtown

The ATS Foundation Research Program returns with the open, relaxed reception format that was introduced last year. Move about freely, sit at a table, or talk with colleagues from around the world in locations throughout the ballroom. Honor Gerard M. Turino, MD, a legend in the pulmonary world and the 2013 Breathing for Life Award recipient. Purchase a ticket to this event when you register for the conference.

Career Development Exchange
Hours: 5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 18
Location: Terrace Ballroom Foyer (400 Level) Pennsylvania Convention Center

The Exchange is a welcome event for residents, fellows, post docs, and other junior professionals and takes place following the Opening Ceremony. This one-hour event allows attendees to network and mingle with peers. This event includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, and does not require a ticket.

International Participants Center
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 19, to Tuesday, May 21
Location: Room 104 A-B (100 Level) Pennsylvania Convention Center

Nearly half of all attendees live outside of the United States. The International Participants Center is designed to enhance the conference experience for these participants and offers a place to meet with colleagues, network, or just relax. They may also find more information about the ATS’s international activities. A Reception for International Participants will also take place from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 21.

Diversity Forum
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, May 19
Location: Liberty Ballroom (Level 3) Philadelphia Marriott Downtown

The annual Diversity Forum focuses on diversity within the fields of pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine, research and academic careers. The forum will feature a guest speaker (to be named) followed by a question-and-answer session. The Minority Trainee Development Scholarship awardees will also be recognized. The Diversity Forum is sponsored by the ATS Membership Committee and will be hosted by Yolanda Mageto, MD, MPH, associate professor of medicine at the University of Vermont College of Medicine in Burlington. Tickets are not required; however, registration is required to obtain an audience count, as space is limited and lunch will be served. Conference badges are required for admission. The MTDS is supported by an educational grant from Merck.

Women’s Forum
Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, May 20
Location: Regency Ballroom A-B (Second Floor Mezzanine) Loews Philadelphia Hotel

The annual Women’s Forum recognizes the achievements and supports the advancement of women in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine and research. This year, Suzanne Lareau, RN, MS, senior instructor at the University of Colorado College of Nursing in Denver, will receive the 2013 Elizabeth A. Rich, MD Award. Also, the panel discussion “Breaking through the Glass Ceiling” will feature Drs. Anne Sperling, Polly Parsons, Estelle Gauda, and Pamela Cyrus. The discussion will focus on barriers to promotion, strategies for promotion, mentorship, networking skills, and the importance of career development.

Tickets are not required, however, registration is required to obtain an audience count, as space is limited and lunch will be served. Conference badges are required for admission.

Clinicians Center, Science and Innovation Center, and Center for Career Development 
Hours: 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 19, to Tuesday, May 21
Location: Hall C (200 Level) Pennsylvania Convention Center

This year, the Clinicians Center, Science and Innovation Center, and Center for Career Development (formerly Center for Fellows and Junior Professionals) will be conveniently located between the posters and exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall. All three centers will open with light complimentary breakfast, and they’ll host receptions with complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

The Clinicians Center will host a meet-and-greet from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 20.

Learn more about the networking centers by reading “ATS Exhibit Hall Showcases the Cutting Edge of Science and Patient Care.”

ATS Foundation Donor Appreciation Suite 
Hours: 7 a.m to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 19, to Tuesday, May 21, and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, May 22
Location: Room 112 A-B (100 Level), in the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Attendees who have contributed $250 or more to the ATS Foundation’s Funds for the Future campaign from June 1, 2012, to May 22, 2013, are invited to relax, grab a bite to eat, check emails, and use the Internet free of charge in the ATS Foundation’s Donor Appreciation Suite. New concierge services will assist donors in navigating Philadelphia’s great restaurants, art galleries, and museums, and arrange tours of the city’s colorful neighborhoods and special attractions daily. After June 1, the minimum contribution to use the suite at ATS 2014 will increase to $300.