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2025 Cancer Care Conference will explore access and equity

Healthcare professionals participate in the 2024 Cancer Care Conference at M State's Moorhead campus.
Participants in last year's Cancer Care Conference attend a presentation by Nancy Franke Wilson. This year's conference will again be held at M State's Moorhead campus, on Friday, May 16.

M State’s Moorhead campus will host the 2025 Cancer Care Conference on Friday, May 16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Open to all healthcare professionals, educators, researchers and advocates, the conference is an annual event that aims to improve cancer care through shared knowledge and increased collaboration in the field. 

This year’s theme, “Navigating barriers to local cancer care equity and access,” will highlight the systemic, geographic and cultural obstacles to equitable cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment – particularly in rural and underserved communities. There will be guest speakers, expert-led panel discussions, interactive breakout sessions, and networking opportunities for professionals dedicated to improving cancer care outcomes across the region.

Melissa Buffalo, CEO of the American Indian Cancer Foundation, will serve as this year’s keynote speaker. Under her direction, the foundation has launched nationally recognized, culturally tailored cancer prevention programs and strengthened tribal partnerships. A citizen of the Meskwaki Nation, Buffalo has nearly two decades of leadership in public health and health equity in Indigenous communities.

“We’re excited to bring together voices from across disciplines to share real-world solutions and inspire collaboration,” says Jenna Stammen, director of health training at M State. “This is about more than just information – it’s about creating pathways to action.”

Additional conference highlights will include:

  • A panel presentation, “Bridging the inequity gap: Reaching underserved communities in cancer care”
  • Breakout sessions on ethical care practices, rural clinical trial access, oral surgery and pathology collaboration, and the role of community health workers
  • Networking opportunities with healthcare professionals and advocates

Participants may be eligible for continuing education units (CEUs) with their paid $80 registration fee and proof of attendance. 

The conference will be held in the Oscar Bergos Conference Center (rooms A115-A121) at M State in Moorhead; enter through doors W1 or S1. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. 

Space is limited. To register or learn more, visit minnesota.edu/cancer-care-conference or contact Jenna Stammen at 218.846.3684 or jenna.stammen@minnesota.edu.