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National Conference

The ABTA 2025 National Conference is September 12-14
Chicago and Online

ABTA National Conference logo

Register Now for the ABTA 2025 National Conference!

The American Brain Tumor Association invites you to our annual National Conference, a pivotal gathering of patients, caregivers, researchers, and advocates dedicated to advancing brain tumor research and treatment.

This year’s conference will take place from Friday, September 12-Sunday, September 14 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel, featuring leading experts, cutting-edge research presentations, informative workshops, and opportunities for connection and support.

Together, we will explore the latest advancements in brain tumor science, share personal stories of resilience, and empower one another in our shared journey.                     

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a community that is making a difference! Register today and help us pave the way toward a future without brain tumors.

Meet our Speakers
A dedicated group of approximately 16 individuals, attending the ABTA 2024 National Conference, is assembled on stools in a professional setting, arranged in two rows and facing the camera. This diverse gathering includes board members and staff from the American Brain Tumor Association, showcasing a mix of ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds that reflect the inclusive nature of the association. Dressed in predominantly business casual attire, their outfits feature a range of colors such as purple, gray, brown, and various patterned tops, with many participants proudly displaying conference badges. Above them, a prominent banner reads "NATIONAL CONFERENCE" in large, bold, capitalized letters, while a smaller logo below features a stylized figure accompanied by the words "American Brain Tumor Association." The background combines a light gray/off-white color with a striking purple backdrop, creating a visually appealing stage environment enhanced by well-balanced lighting. The image encapsulates the camaraderie and collaboration among the attendees, emphasizing their strong commitment to the mission of raising awareness, supporting research, and improving the lives of those affected by brain tumors.
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An Event for Everyone
A man is holding a toddler in his arms. A second man stands nearby, looking at them. The men are at the ABTA 2024 National Conference. The man holding the child is wearing a gray blazer, and the other man is wearing a dark, likely black, t-shirt. They are in a modern, light-colored, interior space, at the hotel lobby. The floor is carpeted. The toddler is wearing a patterned shirt. The man holding the toddler is wearing glasses.
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Build Life-Long Connections
Three women are seated at a table of the ABTA 2024 National Conference. The woman on the left has shoulder-length dark brown hair and is smiling broadly. She is wearing a black shirt.  The woman in the middle has shoulder-length, light purple hair, and is also smiling. She's wearing a black shirt with a visible purple lanyard.  The woman on the right has bright orange-red curly hair and is wearing glasses. She is smiling and is wearing a black jacket over a light purple shirt. They are positioned close together, suggesting a friendly or close relationship. A partly visible, empty wine glass sits on the table between them. Parts of other people and table settings are visible in the background.
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Get Updates on the Latest Research Findings
A group of people are gathered around poster boards at the ABTA 2024 National Conference. Several people are standing in front of poster boards with various charts and graphs displayed on them. The posters appear to be related to research findings in the field. Participants are in various stages of interaction, some are looking closely at the posters, discussing, or are in the process of walking away.  The floor covering is a light gray patterned material. Several people are wearing business casual or professional attire, including suits, button-down shirts, and pants. A few people appear to be taking notes, based on visible postures.
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Find Guidance and Support
Two women are seated in matching chairs at the ABTA 2024 National Conference.  The woman on the left is smiling and appears to be in the middle of speaking or presenting, holding a microphone in her right hand. She is wearing a black, short-sleeved dress and brown knee-high boots. Her hair is shoulder-length brown. The woman on the right is also smiling and seated in a similar chair, holding a microphone. She is wearing a navy blue, short-sleeved dress. Her hair is long and brown.  A small plant sits on a small table between the two chairs. The background is a light purplish-white color, with a design pattern of abstract shapes. A person's head is visible in the foreground, partially obscuring the lower part of the image.
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2024 Keynote Speaker Matthew Zachary
Two people are seated in chairs on a stage.  The person on the left is a man wearing a multicolored, patterned shirt and dark-wash jeans. He is wearing a dark-colored fedora. He is sitting in a dark-gray upholstered chair with light-colored metal legs. He is leaning slightly forward and appears to be listening to the person on the right. His hands are together in front of him, possibly in a gesture of listening or agreement. His name is Matthew Zachary and he is the keynote speaker of the event. Matthew is a 28-year brain cancer survivor praised for leading a social movement for adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer. A classically trained concert pianist, Matthew’s plans to pursue a career in film composition were upended by a medulloblastoma diagnosis at the age of 21. Struck by isolation and a lack of resources during recovery, Matthew founded the award-winning nonprofit Stupid Cancer in 2007, the world’s largest AYA cancer community dedicated to empowering young people with support and connection. The person on the right is a woman wearing a purple blazer over a darker-colored top and dark-colored pants. She is wearing a head scarf and is holding a microphone. She is sitting in a similar styled chair to the man. She appears to be speaking or participating in a discussion.  A small table with a small potted plant is between the two chairs.  The background is a light-colored backdrop with abstract shapes and colors.
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Wall Display of Hope
A wall display from the ABTA 2024 National Conference, is filled with numerous small, rectangular pieces of paper. These papers are affixed to a dark-colored background, supported by an intricate grid of orange and purple string. Small wooden pegs or pins are noticeable throughout the structure, holding the papers in place. Attached to the papers are handwritten messages, often accompanied by personal photos or images printed on small instant-photo-style paper. The messages often begin with "My hope is..." followed by various phrases that express hope, desires, or support. Colors of the papers are varied and include pink, purple, orange, teal, and light blue. The theme seems focused on sharing personal hopes and positive sentiments.
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Hope
A group of women are posing in front of large, black, capital letters that spell out "HOPE". The letters are three-dimensional and appear to be foam or cardboard. The women are wearing various colored tops and pants. They are positioned in front of a light beige and gray carpeted floor, and a beige wall with wooden panels in the hotel lobby.
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Build Your Network
Three people are seated at a table. The person on the left, a woman, wears a dark gray or black t-shirt with a light-colored logo or design on it.  She also has a white head covering. The person in the center, a man, wears a light-colored, horizontally striped, collared shirt. The person on the right, a man, has on a patterned, light-colored, collared shirt. All three are attending the ABTA 2024 National Conference, as evidenced by their seating arrangement and the presence of name tags or lanyards.  Several disposable coffee cups are on the table in front of them. A clear glass is also visible. The table is dark-colored. The background suggests a conference hall or similar setting.
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Learn about the Brain Tumor Board
Two individuals are seated at the ABTA 2024 National Conference.  The woman, positioned on the left, is speaking into a microphone. She is light-skinned with shoulder-length blonde hair and is wearing a dark blazer over a patterned top. Her hands are visible, one holding the microphone, the other near her chest. The man, seated to the right, is listening attentively. He is light-skinned and has short dark hair. He wears a light brownish-gray suit jacket, a patterned tie, and a lanyard. His hands are resting on his lap. The background is a light neutral color with a large, curved, purple design.
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Come Meet our Therapy Dogs!
A light, beige-colored small dog, likely a poodle mix, wearing a light-blue harness, is walking on a floor with a patterned gray and brown carpet. A woman with shoulder-length light blonde hair, wearing a light gray sweater and black pants, is crouching down and petting the dog. She has a white bow in her hair and is wearing white ankle boots. Parts of other people and items, including portions of clothing, are visible in the background. A cardboard box is partly visible behind the woman.
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Understand the Latest Medical Advancements
A man and a woman are standing in front of a poster presentation at the ABTA 2024 National Conference. The man, positioned slightly to the left of the image, is wearing glasses and a beard. He's looking at the poster. He is wearing a dark, patterned blazer over a light-colored collared shirt or button-down. The woman, positioned to the right of the image, is looking at the poster and has reddish-brown hair. She is wearing a sleeveless dark top and a light-colored (possibly white or light gray) bottom (skirt or dress). The poster is displayed on a gray board and has sections titled "Background", "Methods", and "Results". The poster's content, including diagrams and charts, is about targeting CD93/IGFBP-7 to improve T-cell trafficking in human meningiomas. The poster also includes the Yale School of Medicine logo. The number “16” is visible in the top left corner of the board.
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Learn, engage and connect with patients and caregivers impacted by a brain tumor diagnosis.

All ABTA 2024 National Conference livestream sessions are available via the Whova app for registered attendees. Once you’re in Whova, just click or tap Agenda and scroll through the sessions.

All livestreamed sessions feature a green camera icon—just click or tap on the session you’d like to watch! All registrants will receive an email from our Patient Services team once recordings are available on the ABTA’s YouTube channel.

Empower Yourself at the ABTA National Conference

The nation’s largest patient-focused brain tumor conference is returning this fall and we hope to see you! Save the date for the ABTA 2025 National Conference, September 12-14 in Chicago and online.

  • Learn about the latest treatment advances from leading experts 
  • Engage in wellness workshops and breakout sessions 
  • Connect with patients, caregivers and healthcare providers

Join us for a full weekend of enriching programs presented by nationally recognized experts. 

Registration opens in May!

Meet the 2025 Co-Chairs

Ashley Ghiaseddin

Ashley Ghiaseddin, MD

Chief, Division of Neuro-Oncology
Associate Professor, Department of Neurosurgery
Director, LiveNOW Laboratory
University of Florida College of Medicine

Ashlee Loughan

Ashlee Loughan, PhD

Clinical Neuropsychologist
Associate Professor
Virginia Commonwealth University
@Ashlee-Loughan @LiveNOWLab @VCUMassey

Want to stay in the know? Sign up to receive information and updates using the form below.

Watch the 2024 National Conference Recordings
(Click to view full playlist)

Program for the 2025 National Conference!

Learn, engage and connect with patients and caregivers impacted by a brain tumor diagnosis.

Learn. Engage. Connect.

The ABTA National Conference is the largest educational meeting designed specifically for patients and caregivers to learn the latest advances in research, treatment and care from top brain tumor experts.

Register now:

IN-PERSON REGISTRATION
VIRTUAL REGISTRATION

Program Highlights

Get ready for three days filled with educational sessions (two days livestreamed), three breakout sessions, and networking activities tailored just for you. Join us for:

  • Finding New Treatments: From Clinical Trials to Real-World Use
  • Behind the Scenes of a Brain Tumor Board
  • Lessons in Building Resilience presented by Janet Fanaki, Podcast Host & former Caregiver
  • Interactive Activities: Gingko Symbolism & Art, Virtual Writing Workshop, Therapy Dogs, and more
  • Live Musical Performance by brain tumor survivor, Ryan Neal

 

For questions and assistance, email info@abta.org or call 1-800-886-2282.

Conference Details

Hotel: 

Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel 

1551 N. Thoreau Drive 

Schaumburg, IL 60173, US 

Get the full in-person conference experience by booking a room at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel.     

Just a 20-minute drive from Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, attendees are encouraged to reserve a room in the ABTA block and join us for the conference! 

  • Rate: $184/attendees (valid Friday, September 12 – Monday, September 15, 2025) 
  • Cutoff date: August 29, 2025 
  • Cancellation policy: 72 hours prior to guest’s arrival date                                                                     

If you are facing financial hardship, learn more about our scholarship opportunity for eligible in-person attendees. 

Parking: 

Attendees staying overnight at the Renaissance Hotel should park in the hotel parking lot, located to the right of the hotel. Local or day-of attendees should park on the Convention Center side. Click here for the venue parking map. 

 

Date: Thursday, September 5 - Saturday, September 7, 2024

Location: Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel in Chicago and online

Hotel: The ABTA has reserved room blocks at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel and the Springhill Suites Chicago Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall. The Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel is SOLD OUT. Rooms are still available at the Springhill Suites Chicago Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall.

Springhill Suites Chicago Schaumburg/Woodfield Mall 1550 McConnor Parkway Schaumburg, IL 60173 847-995-1500
  • Room block availability closes on Friday, August 16
  • Room rate at Springhill is $139; booking available for Sep. 4 - 7
  • Springhill has a shuttle free of charge that will bring you directly to the conference hotel.
  • Parking is free of charge at Springhill Suites.


Registration Cost: In-person: $40 per person; Livestreaming: Free

Financial Aid: Eligible in-person registrants in financial need can apply for our limited Pat McDonald Scholarships. Learn more and apply.

Request Additional Hotel Options

Plan Your Experience

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In-person attendees are encouraged to join us Thursday evening to relax and connect with others during our therapeutic workshops.

On Friday, attendees are invited for meals, networking, and to explore exhibit booths. The program will follow with a dynamic look behind the scenes of Brain Tumor Board, breakout sessions on navigating stages of treatment, and the keynote address. Stick around for the evening cocktail reception for light appetizers, music, and an opportunity to meet researchers!

On Saturday morning, attendees can join us for Chair Yoga, therapy dogs, breakfast, and networking. The day will follow with engaging sessions on clinical trials, building resilience, and two tracks of breakout sessions. You don’t want to miss it!

In-person registration is $40 per attendee. Click here to register.

If you are unable to attend in person, you can tune in from the comfort of your own home through our virtual conference platform, Whova.

Virtual attendees are invited to log on Thursday evening for a writing workshop. Before, during, and after the conference you can interact on virtual chat boards and explore research posters.

On Friday and Saturday, join the livestream of educational sessions and ask questions through the Q&A feature. Virtual attendees will also have access to breakout sessions on both days.

Registration is free, but required for virtual attendees. You will receive further details on how to access the conference platform.

Hotel: 

Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel 

1551 N. Thoreau Drive 

Schaumburg, IL 60173, US 

Get the full in-person conference experience by booking a room at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel. 

Just a 20-minute drive from Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, attendees are encouraged to reserve a room in the ABTA block and join us for the conference! 

  • Rate: $184/attendees (valid Friday, September 12 – Monday, September 15, 2025) 
  • Cutoff date: August 29, 2025 
  • Cancellation policy: 72 hours prior to guest’s arrival date 

If you are facing financial hardship, learn more about our scholarship opportunity for eligible in-person attendees. 

Parking: 

Attendees staying overnight at the Renaissance Hotel should park in the hotel parking lot, located to the right of the hotel. Local or day-of attendees should park on the Convention Center side. Click here for the venue parking map.

A limited number of Pat McDonald Scholarships are available to those in financial need who want to attend the conference in person.

Awarded scholarships will cover a one night stay at the Renaissance Hotel along with registration fees for eligible attendees and any accompanying guests.

To be considered:

  • You must live more than 45 miles from the conference hotel (1551 N. Thoreau Dr., Schaumburg, IL, 60173).
  • You must be a brain tumor patient/survivor or caregiver.
  • You must demonstrate financial need.

To apply for financial assistance, please complete this form by July 31, 2025.

For questions or assistance, please email info@abta.org or call 800-866-2282.

Meet Our Keynote Speaker: Jason Tharp

Jason Tharp is a brain cancer survivor, bestselling children’s book author and illustrator, and founder of the Beyond HOPE Project—a movement designed to help people break through the impossible by turning hope into a strategy. With a message rooted in authenticity, resilience, and self-leadership, Jason brings the perfect blend of heart, humor, and humanity to every stage he steps on. 

Through the lens of his personal journey—being told he had seven months to live—Jason delivers powerful storytelling that goes far beyond inspiration. He introduces audiences to his transformational H.O.P.E. Algorithm, a mindset tool built to help individuals and organizations navigate challenges, unlock creativity, and lead with purpose. 

Jason’s talks leave people not just motivated, but moved—and equipped. His unique ability to turn pain into power helps people across industries embrace a new truth: 

Impossible is optional when HOPE is your strategy. 

He speaks to corporate teams, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and educators who want to spark meaningful growth, reignite their purpose, and build cultures of connection, courage, and creativity. 

"Diagnosed with Grade 4 Glioblastoma and given seven months to live, Jason made a bold decision: H.O.P.E. would be the strategy. Three years later, with clear scans and a mission to inspire others, Jason’s story proves that impossible is just a word. "

Enjoy Music from Special Guest Ryan Neal!

Ryan Neal is a talented musician and inspiring brain tumor survivor, known for his heartfelt performances and soulful sound.

He gained national recognition as a contestant on “The Bachelor Presents: Listen to Your Heart,” where he showcased not only his incredible vocal abilities but also his resilience and passion for music.

Ryan’s journey through adversity has fueled his creativity, allowing him to connect with audiences on a deeper level. With a unique blend of emotion and artistry, he continues to share his story through his music, reminding us of the power of hope and healing.

Meet Our Conference Chairs

Marta Penas Prado, MD, MSc

Marta Penas-Prado, MD, MSc

Senior Clinician, Neuro-Oncology Branch
Clinical Research Program Co-Director
Lead Physician, NCI-CONNECT Rare CNS Tumor Clinic, Neuro-Oncology Branch
Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health  

Roy Strowd III, MD, MEd, MS, FAAN

Associate Professor, Neuro-Oncology
Vice Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education
Co-Program Lead, Experimental Therapeutics and Applied Science
Co-Program Lead, Neuro-Oncology Disease Group
Comprehensive Cancer Center
Wake Forest University School of Medicine

Thank You To Our Sponsors!

Ivmax
Novocure
diakonos oncology
Cleveland Clinic
Telix
diakonos oncology
Telix
Ivmax
Brain Tumor Network
Novocure
Neuro42
GT Medical Technologies
Medexus Pharma
Ono Pharma
Northwestern Medicine
Orbus Therapeutics
Society for NeuroOncology
USC Keck School of Medicine
Telix
Ivy Brain Tumor Center
Boston Scientific | Advancing science for life
Cleveland Clinic
MD Anderson Cancer Center
diakonos oncology
Hemispherian
GSK
Lenox Hill

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors for their invaluable support of the American Brain Tumor Association’s 2025 National Conference. Your commitment to advancing brain tumor research and patient care has made this event possible.

Together, we are fostering a community of hope, innovation, and collaboration, empowering patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

With your partnership, we are driving meaningful change and paving the way for breakthroughs in brain tumor treatment and support. Thank you for standing with us in our mission to enhance the lives of those affected by brain tumors. Together, we are making a difference!

Your Support Today Can Create a Tomorrow Without Brain Tumors

The need for better brain tumor treatments is greater than ever. That’s why we’re meeting hope head on—because donations lead to research, research leads to better treatments, and better treatments bring us closer to a cure. 

Help Brain Tumor Patients Now

Free Educational Booklets

The ABTA has been a top resource for brain tumor educational materials for over 50 years. All of our educational brochures are carefully reviewed by brain tumor medical experts, and brain tumor patients and caregivers.. These brochures are 100% free for patients and caregivers.

All Educational Resources for Patients

Memorial & Honor Giving

Donating to the ABTA is a meaningful way to recognize someone whose life has been impacted by a brain tumor. With your gift, you can honor key milestones in a brain tumor survivor’s life, or convey the sense of loss when a friend or loved one loses their battle with this disease. 

Learn More About Memorial Giving

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