CME
Summer
Series

Join the University of Illinois Cancer Center and leading oncologists for three afternoons of evidence-based education and case discussions while earning CME and MOC credit. Designed for physicians, advanced practice providers, and healthcare professionals.

Session Dates — June 2026

Chair

Karine Tawagi, MD

Agenda

  • Lung
  • Genitourinary
  • Gastrointestinal
  • Dermatological

Chair

VK Gadi, MD, PhD

Agenda

  • Early-stage breast
  • Late-stage breast
  • Survivorship & menopause
  • Gynecological oncology

Chair

Carlos Galvez, MD

Agenda

  • T-cell Lymphoma
  • Leukemia
  • Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
  • Lymphoma/HIV

Session Details

Educational Goal

This educational activity is designed to expand clinicians' proficiency in applying precision oncology principles to the management of solid tumors, including appropriate biomarker testing, interpretation of molecular results, and integration of targeted therapies. Learners will explore how to operationalize precision medicine in both academic and community environments.

A second goal is to improve understanding of emerging therapeutic classes — antibody drug conjugates, bispecifics, next-generation targeted agents — and how to incorporate them into treatment plans while balancing efficacy, safety, and patient-specific factors. Case-based discussions will reinforce practical application.

The final goal is to support clinicians in addressing real-world barriers to precision oncology, including disparities in testing access, clinical trial participation, and navigation of complex care pathways. Learners will leave with actionable strategies to improve equity, communication, and patient engagement.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this activity, participants will be able to:

  1. Review updated clinical evidence and guideline recommendations to treatment sequencing and planning.
  2. Identify biomarker-driven decision-making into patient management.
  3. Identify treatment-related toxicities using current best practices.
  4. Explain how to improve multidisciplinary coordination across oncology specialties.
  5. Discuss how to address disparities in cancer care affecting hard-to-reach populations.

Target Audience

Medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, oncology nurse practitioners, oncology physician assistants, oncology pharmacists, oncology nurses, fellows, residents, and primary care clinicians involved in cancer care.

Primary Agenda

12:30 – 1:30 Insights Roundtable Lunch, by invitation only
12:30 – 1:30 Conference Registration, Meet the Exhibitors, Headshot Studio, Lunch
1:30 – 2:25 Karine Tawagi, MD: Genitourinary cancer updates
2:30 – 3:25 Shikha Jain, MD: Gastrointestinal cancer updates
3:30 – 4:15 Product Theater (non-CME), Break, Headshot Studio
4:20 – 5:15 Frank Weinberg, MD: Lung cancer updates
5:20 – 6:15 Almog Badash, MD: Dermatologic Toxicities of Cancer Therapy: Mechanisms, Impact, and Management
6:15 – 7:30 Networking Event, Rooftop Terrace

Series Chair

VK Gadi, MD, PhD

VK Gadi, MD, PhD

Deputy Director, University of Illinois Cancer Center
Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine, Medical Oncology
UIC Department of Medicine
Chicago, IL

Session Chair & Presenter

Karine Tawagi, MD

Karine Tawagi, MD

UI Health
Chicago, IL

Faculty Presenters

Shikha Jain, MD, FACP

Shikha Jain, MD, FACP

UI Health
Chicago, IL

Frank Weinberg, MD, PhD

Frank Weinberg, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor
Division of Hematology and Oncology
Translational Oncology Research Program
UI Health
Chicago, IL

Almog Badash, MD

Almog Badash, MD

UI Health
Chicago, IL

Educational Goal

This activity aims to strengthen clinicians' ability to recognize, diagnose, and manage women's cancers across diverse care settings, with an emphasis on evidence-based screening, risk stratification, and early detection. Faculty will highlight evolving standards of care, disparities in access, and practical strategies for improving patient-centered communication during diagnostic and treatment decision making.

A second goal is to deepen understanding of emerging therapeutic options in breast, gynecologic, and hereditary cancers, including mechanisms of action, biomarker-driven selection, and toxicity management. Learners will gain clarity on how to integrate new data into real-world practice while maintaining safety, equity, and guideline alignment.

Finally, the day aims to equip clinicians with tools to improve coordination across multidisciplinary teams — oncology, primary care, genetics, and supportive services — to reduce delays in care and improve outcomes for women across the cancer continuum.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this activity, participants will be able to:

  1. Review updated clinical evidence and guideline recommendations to treatment sequencing and planning.
  2. Identify biomarker-driven decision-making into patient management.
  3. Identify treatment-related toxicities using current best practices.
  4. Explain how to improve multidisciplinary coordination across oncology specialties.
  5. Discuss how to address disparities in cancer care affecting hard-to-reach populations.

Target Audience

Medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, oncology nurse practitioners, oncology physician assistants, oncology pharmacists, oncology nurses, fellows, residents, and primary care clinicians involved in cancer care.

Primary Agenda

12:30 – 1:30 Insights Roundtable Lunch, by invitation only
12:30 – 1:30 Conference Registration, Meet the Exhibitors, Headshot Studio, Lunch
1:30 – 2:25 Sarah Werner, MD: Circulating Tumor DNA in Gynecologic Oncology: Current Evidence and Future Directions
2:30 – 3:25 Alex Krule, MD: Updates in Late-stage Breast Cancer Management
3:30 – 4:15 VK Gadi, MD: Updates in Early-stage Breast Cancer Management
4:20 – 5:15 Makeba Williams, MD: Updates in Survivorship & Menopause
5:20 – 6:15 Product Theater (non-CME), Break, Headshot Studio
6:15 – 7:30 Networking Event, Rooftop Terrace

Series & Session Chair and Presenter

VK Gadi, MD, PhD

VK Gadi, MD, PhD

Deputy Director, University of Illinois Cancer Center
Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine, Medical Oncology
UIC Department of Medicine
Chicago, IL

Faculty Presenters

Sarah Werner, MD

Sarah Werner, MD

UI Health
Chicago, IL

Alex Krule, MD

Alex Krule, MD

Hematology/Oncology Fellow
University of Illinois Hospital and Jesse Brown VA Medical Center

Makeba Williams, MD, MSCP

Makeba Williams, MD, MSCP

University of Illinois College of Medicine
Clinical Director, Center for Health, Awareness, and Research on Menopause (CHARM)
Professor, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois College of Medicine Chicago and Peoria

Educational Goal

This activity is designed to enhance clinicians' ability to diagnose and manage hematologic malignancies and rare cancers, with a focus on recognizing atypical presentations, selecting appropriate diagnostic workups, and applying current treatment algorithms. Emphasis will be placed on conditions that disproportionately affect underserved populations or are frequently under-recognized in community settings.

A second goal is to update learners on rapidly evolving therapeutic landscapes — including targeted agents, immunotherapies, and cellular therapies — while clarifying indications, sequencing considerations, and toxicity mitigation. Faculty will translate complex clinical trial data into practical, real-world decision frameworks.

The final goal is to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration between oncology, hematology, pathology, pharmacy, and supportive care teams to improve care coordination, reduce preventable complications, and optimize patient outcomes in rare and high-risk malignancies.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this activity, participants will be able to:

  1. Review updated clinical evidence and guideline recommendations to treatment sequencing and planning.
  2. Identify biomarker-driven decision-making into patient management.
  3. Identify treatment-related toxicities using current best practices.
  4. Explain how to improve multidisciplinary coordination across oncology specialties.
  5. Discuss how to address disparities in cancer care affecting hard-to-reach populations.

Target Audience

Medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, oncology nurse practitioners, oncology physician assistants, oncology pharmacists, oncology nurses, fellows, residents, and primary care clinicians involved in cancer care.

Primary Agenda

12:30 – 1:30 Insights Roundtable Lunch, by invitation only
12:30 – 1:30 Conference Registration, Meet the Exhibitors, Headshot Studio, Lunch
1:30 – 2:25 Carlos Murga-Zamalloa, MD: Updates in T-cell malignancies
2:30 – 3:25 Carlos Galvez, MD: Updates in lymphoma and cell-therapy
3:30 – 4:15 Product Theater (non-CME), Break, Headshot Studio
4:20 – 5:15 Jay Vakil, DO: Updates in Myeloproliferative disorders & AML
5:20 – 6:15 Paul Rubinstein, MD: Updates in HIV & Hematologic malignancies
6:15 – 7:30 Networking Event, Rooftop Terrace

Session Chair & Presenter

VK Gadi, MD, PhD

VK Gadi, MD, PhD

Deputy Director, University of Illinois Cancer Center
Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine, Medical Oncology
UIC Department of Medicine
Chicago, IL

Session Chair & Presenter

Carlos Galvez, MD

Carlos Galvez, MD

UI Health
Chicago, IL

Faculty Presenters

Carlos Murga-Zamalloa, MD

Carlos Murga-Zamalloa, MD

UI Health
Chicago, IL

Jay Vakil, DO

Jay Vakil, DO

Cook County Health
Chicago, IL

Paul Rubinstein, MD

Paul Rubinstein, MD

UI Health
Chicago, IL

Nonprofit Cancer Organizations

Across each day of the Summer CME Series, the University of Illinois Cancer Center will spotlight a different nonprofit organization whose mission aligns with the Cancer Center's commitment to advancing equity, community engagement, and patient-centered cancer care. Each selected organization has a history of partnership with the Cancer Center and plays a meaningful role in supporting patients, families, and communities across Chicago and beyond. By integrating these partners into the educational experience, the series reinforces the essential connection between clinical excellence and community-rooted support systems.

To honor their work, the Cancer Center will provide each nonprofit with a complimentary exhibitor table during the conference — General Oncology on June 16th, Women's Health on June 17th, and Hematologic Malignancies on June 24th. This presence in the main networking and registration area allows them to engage directly with oncologists, APPs, nurses, and other cancer care professionals, while offering clinicians immediate access to resources that address social, emotional, and practical needs across the cancer continuum.

At the conclusion of each session, the featured nonprofit will also be recognized during the networking reception with a brief thank you and a small token of appreciation. This moment of acknowledgment highlights their ongoing contributions to patient support and their continued partnership with the University of Illinois Cancer Center. The goal is to elevate the visibility of community organizations that make a tangible difference in patients' lives and to strengthen the bridge between clinical practice and community-based advocacy.

Summer 2026 Nonprofit Guests

MOLA

June 16 — General Oncology

Medical Organization for Latino Advancement

chicagomola.com
Sisters Working It Out

June 17 — Women's Health

Sisters Working It Out

swio.org
Blood Cancer United

June 24 — Hematologic Malignancies

Blood Cancer United

bloodcancerunited.org

Register
here.

Conference Information

The sessions will be recorded and will be posted online for on-demand access within 60 to 90 days following the live events. Recordings are not available for CME credit.

Venue

Fulton Labs
400 N Aberdeen, 16th Fl.
Fulton Market
Chicago, IL

Registration Fees for Attendees Per Session:

  • Industry = $400
  • MD/DO = $100
  • APP = $50
  • Students/Fellows = $0.00
  • University of Illinois Chicago Staff, Faculty and Affiliates = $0.00

Cancellation Policy:

Full refunds are available up to 30 days prior to the conference. No refunds will be available less than 30 days prior to the conference.

If you would like to request a refund, please email info@shaferhealthstrategies.com

View Past Session Recordings

UIC REGISTRANTS MUST USE THEIR uic.edu EMAIL

The live stream login instructions will be sent on the Tuesday before each of the sessions. You must be registered to receive the login instructions.

Thank you! Your registration has been received. You will receive a confirmation email shortly. If payment is required, the SHS team will send a secure payment link to pay online.

What You Need to Know

Each session is an afternoon of expert-led CME education featuring case presentations, panel discussions, and interactive Q&A. Sessions are offered both in-person at Fulton Labs and via live stream, with virtual login instructions sent the day before each session. Each session provides 4 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. MOC points will be submitted for eligible specialties. The day concludes with a dedicated networking event — an opportunity to connect with faculty, peers, and industry leaders while enjoying cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and the beautiful summertime Chicago skyline.
Ready for your close up? All attendees are invited to enjoy a complimentary professional headshot, provided by a talented local photographer. Our onsite headshot booth will be open throughout the conference, offering studio-quality lighting, quick sessions, and same-day digital delivery. Whether you're updating LinkedIn, refreshing your institution's profile, or simply want a polished new photo, this is a free benefit available to every participant.
Venue: Fulton Labs, 400 N Aberdeen, 16th Fl., Fulton Market, Chicago, IL

Fulton Labs is located in the heart of Chicago's Fulton Market district, easily accessible by public transit and rideshare. Nearby parking garages are available. Hotel accommodations are not included with registration; attendees are responsible for their own travel and lodging arrangements.
ACCME Accredited with Commendation

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of Global Education Group (Global) and Shafer Health Strategies. Global is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Exhibitor Sponsorship

University of Illinois Cancer Center  ·  Summer 2026 CME Series

All Sponsorship Levels Include

  • Sponsorship acknowledgement on event website, and event signage
  • CME Conference Attendee list
  • Standard exhibitor table
  • Food & Beverage
  • Conference registration + Networking event tickets

Networking Event

When & Where: 6:15–7:30pm, Fulton Labs 16th Floor Roof

Immediately following the final education session of the day, attendees are invited to join us for a relaxed networking reception in the outdoor rooftop space at Fulton Labs. This open-air setting offers a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline and a comfortable environment for meaningful conversation. Guests can enjoy refreshing summer beverages and a selection of chef-curated hors d'oeuvres while connecting with oncology clinicians, researchers, community partners, and industry professionals. The reception provides a valuable opportunity to continue discussions from the day's sessions, build new relationships, and strengthen collaborations that advance equitable cancer care across the region.

Sponsorship Selections

Diamond — $20,000

Diamond Sponsorship Includes:

  • All Platinum Sponsor benefits
  • Product Theater (non-CME, 45 min)
Conference Tote

Platinum — $7,500

Platinum Sponsorship Includes:

  • All Gold Sponsor benefits
  • Premium Exhibitor location
  • Your company logo on the Conference Tote
  • 4 conference attendees
  • 4 Networking Event attendees

Gold — $5,000

Gold Sponsorship Includes:

  • 6ft tabletop display
  • Lunch, Snacks, and Beverage Station
  • Headshot Booth
  • Opportunity to provide registration bag insert
  • 2 conference attendees
  • 2 Networking Event attendees

Product Theater (Included with Diamond Sponsorship)

  • 45-min, non-CME presentation that highlights your company's latest offering
  • Boardroom with seating for up to 30 attendees
  • Invitation email to all attendees
Product Theater

Insights Discussion Opportunity

Each day of the Summer CME Series features a sponsored Insights Session held over lunch — a focused, roundtable discussion for 8 oncology clinicians led by a top Key Opinion Leader (KOL). This interactive forum gathers insights from practicing oncologists on clinical decision-making, barriers to biomarker testing, therapy sequencing, and multidisciplinary coordination in oncology practice.

Sponsorship includes full logistical coordination, attendee honoraria, and a catered lunch provided onsite. Following the event, sponsors receive a post-session executive summary detailing key discussion themes, identified practice gaps, emerging educational needs, and actionable recommendations for future independent medical education initiatives.

This format offers sponsors a unique opportunity to gather insights from practicing oncologists in a collaborative, evidence-driven environment that informs ongoing educational strategy and supports equitable cancer care delivery.

Please indicate your interest on the Sponsorship Application Form and Shafer Health Strategies will follow up with additional information.

Sponsorship Application Form

Please make your selections below. Upon submission, Shafer Health Strategies will email the Letter of Agreement with the chosen sponsorship details.

Company Information

Exhibiting Company Name
Company Representative

Conference Date

Sponsorship Selections

All Platinum benefits  ·  Product Theater (non-CME, 45 min)

All Gold benefits  ·  Premium location  ·  Logo on Conference Tote  ·  4 conference attendees  ·  4 Networking Event attendees

6ft tabletop display  ·  Lunch, Snacks, and Beverage Station  ·  Headshot Booth  ·  Bag insert opportunity  ·  2 conference attendees  ·  2 Networking Event attendees

Additional Opportunities

If selected, Shafer Health Strategies will reach out to discuss your needs and pricing.

Additional Tickets & Attendee Options

Qty
Qty

Payment Options

Payment is accepted by ACH or credit card only. Once the application is submitted, the sponsor will receive the Letter of Agreement and either a Banking Letter if ACH is chosen or a secure link to pay online.

Contact Us

For questions about registration, CME credit, or session details, please reach out to Shafer Health Strategies.

Organized by
Shafer Health Strategies
Hosted by
UI Health | UIC
Accreditation Provided By
Global Education Group