Displaying items by tag: conference

Sixteenth International Conference

The Sixteenth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome was another tremendous conference. This bi-annual event was held in Orlando, Florida on September 16, 17, 18, 2018 at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. With over 60 sessions, this conference focused on the latest medical diagnostic innovations, investigative and legal procedures and techniques, evidence-based and creative SBS/AHT prevention programs and support for victim families.

The conference started with an extremely educational presentation by Dr. Andrew Baker, “Detection, Documentation, and Interpretation of Fractures in the Deceased Infant and Small Child: The Autopsy Perspective. This presentation provided useful guidelines to utilize radiographical skeletal surveys in pediatric autopsies. The conference concluded with a presentation from physicians, Dr. Stephen Boos and Dr. Daniel Lindberg, and prosecutors, Erica Kallin and Matthew Torbenson. The panel provided a close examination of the common diagnoses discussed in the court system to dispute AHT symptoms and injuries by featuring a mock trial with expert testimony highlighting important dos and don’ts as well as useful cross examination techniques.

In addition to the superb line-up of workshop presentations, the conference featured the always popular Basics Track for legal professionals. A majority of these sessions were recorded and will be available for future viewing through the NCSBS online training modules at training.dontshake.org.

International Symposium on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma

After nearly twenty years, the NCSBS had the privilege to lead a training opportunity in Australia. The International Symposium on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma was hosted jointly by the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome and the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network (SCHN) and was sponsored by Prevention and Response to Violence Abuse and Neglect (PARVAN) Unit, a department of the NSW Ministry of Health. 

Nearly 350 professionals came together from a multitude of disciplines including: pathology, pediatrics, nursing, social work, law enforcement, rehabilitation and many more. Experts from numerous countries around the world shared their latest research and experiences.

The Symposium began with a poignant welcome from Dr. Kim Oates, a leader in the medical field in Australia. The first session of the day brought presenters from three countries together as they discussed their publish research on the financial burden an SBS/AHT case can have on society and how these figures can be used to advocate for prevention.  One of the most talked about sessions was Dr. Carole Jenny’s (Seattle, Washington) discussing how biomechanics can affect the field’s view on SBS/AHT.  Dr. Arabinda Choudhary (Little Rock, Arkansas) share his groundbreaking work in utilizing an array of imaging techniques to diagnosis Abusive Head Trauma cases. To end this successful event, Mr. Andrew Waterman, Detective Chief Inspector (Sydney, Australia), discussed his investigative experiences with suspected cases of Abusive Head Trauma. 

The Symposium was a huge success and the NCSBS and SCHN hope to have the opportunity to bring the event back to the region much sooner again!

Eighteenth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma

The Eighteenth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma was held on October 23, 24, 25, 2022 at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. It was extremely well-attended, with more than 400 people participating in over 60 sessions focusing on family/victim support, investigative techniques, legal and trial experiences, prevention programs from around the world, the latest research from experts in the field, and shared experiences from parents and survivors.

We were honored to have the conference kick off with a presentation by Dr. Hank Puls, “The Rates of AHT During COVID-19.”

Some of the other highlights of the 3-day event included:

• Dr. Mary Case being presented the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome. The award was presented by Dr. Lucy Roarke-Adams. Dr. Case has spent her career as a forensic pathologist speaking for child victims of abuse and as an expert witness for shaken baby syndrome/abusive head trauma.
• Our “Ask The Experts” panel was facilitated by Dr. Randall Alexander, Dr. Lori Frasier, Tom Fallon (JD), and Joelle Moreno (JD). The discussion was vibrant and informative.
• The premier of “A Survivor’s Story” featuring Josh Sorrels, filmed by Christopher Baier, relating the story of adult Josh discovering he is a victim of shaken baby syndrome.
• A powerful and moving presentation by Sameer Sabir, “Justice for Rehma,” as he discussed the loss of his daughter to this devastating form of abuse and the judicial process that victimized the family further.

The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome is indebted to the willing experts who presented at the conference, shared years of experience, research, and knowledge, and to the brave families and victims who shared their heartbreaking stories.

Nineteenth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma

The Nineteenth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma was held on September 15, 16, 17, 2024, at the Little America Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. More than 400 people from 11 countries participated in over 60 sessions focusing on family/victim support, investigative techniques, legal and trial experiences, prevention programs from around the world, the latest research from experts in the field, and shared experiences from parents and survivors.

We were honored to have the conference kick off with a keynote presentation by Dr. Lori Frasier, “Deconstructing a Diagnosis of Abusive Head Trauma.”

Some of the other highlights of the 3-day event included:

• Marilyn Barr received the Lifetime Achievement Award. She founded the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome and has worked tirelessly as an advocate since. A special piece of art was commissioned and painted for Marilyn by Sabine Witte, a survivor.
• A three-part series was presented over the course of 3 hours detailing the process of a successful conviction in Boise, Idaho. Speakers included Dr. Lori Frasier, Dr. Gina Bertocci, Dr. Derrick Dauplaise, Jason Pietrzak, Daniel Dinger, and Tessie Buttram.
• Debbie Eappen and Sameer Sabir were keynote speakers addressing “Media: Fact or Fiction, Friend of Foe.“ This was an in-depth presentation on their experiences with the media during their cases and ways they were further victimized.
• Special family-oriented sessions included music therapy, caring for the caregiver, and the benefits of animal therapy.

We are so grateful for the incredible speakers who presented at this conference, sharing their experiences, research, and knowledge. The survey feedback was the highest we have ever achieved! 

Our twentieth conference will be held in Nashville, Tennessee, on September 21, 21 & 22, 2026, at the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel.

Twentieth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome / Abusive Head Trauma

Loews Nashville Hotel at Vanderbilt Plaza - Nashville, TN

September 22, 23, and 24, 2026

The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome is pleased to announce our twentieth biennial conference will be in Nashville on September 22, 23 and 24, 2026. This three-day conference brings together leading physicians, neuroscientists, child protection specialists, and legal professionals to present the latest scientific research and evidence-based practices on SBS/AHT. As misinformation continues to spread in public discourse, this trusted forum provides clarity, truth, and collaboration among the world’s foremost authorities.

Participants will explore topics on diagnosis, prevention, and family support services—gaining valuable tools and insights to strengthen their practice and impact.

This milestone event promises to be an inspiring, informative, and unforgettable gathering—we can’t wait to see you there.

Return to this page and follow our social media channels for the latest updates on the conference. Click this link to book your room at the Special Conference Room Rate.

Loews Nashville Hotel at Vanderbilt Plaza

2100 West End Avenue

Nashville, TN 37203

Immerse yourself in old and new Nashville at the iconic, award-winning Loews Nashville Hotel at Vanderbilt Plaza. Our Nashville hotel near Broadway is your stage for exploring the vibrant city we call home. Our Nashville hotel is located in midtown Nashville across from Vanderbilt University in the West End—off the tourist path—just minutes from Nashville’s most renowned attractions.

Reserve Your Room Today

Loews Nashville Hotel provides conference attendees a substantial discount when registering through the link on this website. The minimum check-in date is September 20, 2026 and the maximum check-out date is September 25, 2026. if you have any special requests such as ADA rooms, roll aways, special pillows, etc. please book your room dates and follow up with a call to hotel reservations at 800-235-6397 with any additional requests.

Reserve your newly renovated Deluxe or Luxury room as soon as you are able. The room block closes August 26, 2026. Loews Nashville Hotel has a limited number of rooms available at the discounted rate.

Special Conference Room Rate: $269 per night, plus applicable taxes and fees.

Click Here to Reserve Your Room

NOTE: If you need to extend your room booking dates, please call the Reservations Department at 800-235-6397. Due to technical issues, you will not be able to extend your dates online. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience. We will update here when the issue is resolved.

Abstract Submission

Interested in presenting at the Twentieth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma? Join other world-renowned experts and share your latest research, policies, investigative techniques, legal expertise and prevention efforts focused on shaken baby syndrome/abusive head trauma.

The NCSBS is now accepting abstracts for workshop and poster presentations. The program planning committee is looking for abstracts to present from the following areas of expertise: 

• Latest medical diagnostic and treatment of SBS/AHT cases
• Investigative and legal procedures and techniques
• Evidence-based and creative SBS/AHT prevention initiatives and programs
• Support for families and rehabilitation for victims of SBS/AHT

All contact information must be included as well as a thorough biography. The abstract will need to be submitted as a separate document with a word minimum of 200 words and a maximum of 1000. The abstract file must be uploaded as a Microsoft Word or PDF document. Please note: presentations with commercial interest will not be accepted.

Accepted abstract presenters will be responsible for own travel and registration costs. Co-authors presenting must also register for the conference.

Please Read the Abstract Submission Requirements Document Before Submitting an Abstract
Abstract Submission Requirements

DEADLINE EXTENDED: Abstracts Due February 27, 2026

Any questions can be directed to the NCSBS Conference Team at (801) 447-9360 or .

Submit Your Abstract

Registration is OPEN!

2026 Registration Prices

*Requires a field of study/year and affiliations for registration
**Email  for information on registering as a group
**Requires that groups register together and pay in full as one transaction

Registration rates include access to all keynote, breakout sessions and opening reception. The NCSBS will provide two breaks per day which includes coffee and snack items. Lunch is on your own.

Register for the conference by clicking this button: REGISTER NOW

Babies and Toddlers (BaT) Baby Bootcamp for Trauma Investigators

The NCSBS in partnership with Babies and Toddlers, Inc will be hosting an investigators' bootcamp directly before the SBS/AHT conference on Monday, September 21, 2026.  This course will provide an explanation of basic terminology and medical diagnosis commonly associated with serious physical injury and death in babies and toddlers. We will explore how to approach serious assault and homicide investigations of babies and toddlers under the age of four and why the use of a detailed integrated timeline is critical. Attendees will be provided with a BaT Crib Sheet, a BaT Investigative Worksheet and other reference materials. Through a case study, attendees will learn about the significance of the presence or absence of medical findings, with a specific focus on Abusive Head Trauma and other injuries, and how to distinguish mimics from abuse in complex medical and law enforcement investigations.

Conference Loyalty Program

Don't forget that if you attended our 2022 International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome / Abusive Head Trauma (SBS/AHT) in Philadelphia and/or the 2024 conference in Salt Lake City you save up to 15% on your individual registration price. This discount cannot be combined with anyone receiving the group discount. Our Conference Attendee Loyalty Program introduced at the Philadelphia conference rewards our frequent attendees and places attendees in three tiers*:

• Ally: Earn 10% off registration fees after attending one conference
  • Use Coupon Code "AllyNash2026" in the registration form**
• Supporter: Earn 15% off after two conferences attended
  • Use Coupon Code "Supporter2026" in the registration form**
• Champion: Earn 20% off after three conferences attended

* Attendance credit began with the 2022 Philadelphia conference.
** The NCSBS will confirm eligibility for this coupon code. Anyone ineligible who uses this code will be required to pay the difference prior to attending the conference.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations 30 days or sooner before the conference will not be accepted. Cancellations more than 30 days prior to the conference are subject to a $50 cancellation fee.

Email Catherine at  or call 801-447-9360 ext.112 if you have any questions about the conference.

The NCSBS recognizes that families and caregivers of victims of SBS may need additional support and services during their stay in Nashville. The Loews Vanderbilt Hotel offers multiple accessible rooms and can accommodate additional requests to help make your stay as stress free as possible. Click this link for more information about the hotel's accessibility options. 

Accessibility in Nashville

Visit Music City touts Nashville's accessibility: "In Music City, everyone belongs. From ADA-compliant accommodations and restaurants to sensory-friendly attractions and inclusive music festivals, we welcome those with mobility, auditory, visual, and sensory differences to feel at home in Nashville. Come explore a city that’s as welcoming as its music." For a guide to navigating accessibility in Nashville, please visit this link.

Presents The

Virtual Family Support Symposium

May 14, 2025

The Virtual Family Support Symposium will be held on a virtual format and will feature presentations addressing many of the issues that families of victims of Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma (SBS/AHT) face.

Registration is FREE!

Attendance for this event will be FREE to everyone who would like to participate thanks to the generosity of the Matty Eappen Foundation! Though attendance is free for all participants, registration is required in order to receive information regarding symposium updates, announcements, and Zoom instructions.

This symposium will not be offering any continuing education units (CEUs) and will program presentations that are relevant and valuable to families of victims of SBS/AHT. These presentations might include topics like processing grief, resources to navigate available resources at the state and federal level, and therapies that may be available for victims of SBS/AHT for example.

For questions about the symposium, please contact the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome:

Phone: (801) 447-9360 ext.105
Email:

Registration is Closed.