The event brought together CRPs from The Ohio State University, Case Western Reserve University and the University of Cincinnati, reinforcing a shared commitment to supporting workforce development and fostering collaboration among Ohio's CTSA institutions. As the inaugural biennial symposium, Elevate was designed to address current and evolving challenges in clinical and translational research while creating opportunities for professional growth and workforce development.
Planning and leadership for the symposium were driven by a collaborative partnership among workforce development leaders from Ohio's CTSA institutions, including Angela Mendell, MS, CCRP of the University of Cincinnati, Mary Dolansky, PhD, RN of Case Western Reserve University and Jessica Fritter, DHSc, MACPR, ACRP-CP, from the Ohio State CTSI. The event's successful execution was further supported by Samantha Martinek Bundt, workforce development project manager from Ohio State's CTSI, who coordinated event planning and logistics. Together, their efforts highlighted the power of cross-institutional collaboration in advancing and supporting Ohio's clinical research workforce.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in discussions on topics critical to today's research environment, including project management, research quality, regulatory updates, decentralized clinical trials, organizational leadership, team science and career development. The symposium's interactive format encouraged meaningful dialogue among attendees, providing opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from peers and identify strategies for addressing emerging challenges in clinical and translational research.
In addition to educational sessions, Elevate fostered networking and relationship-building among professionals from academic medical centers and healthcare institutions across Ohio. By bringing together experienced clinical research professionals from different organizations, the symposium helped strengthen partnerships that can support innovation, operational excellence and workforce growth throughout the state's research enterprise.
The success of Elevate 2026 demonstrates the impact of collaboration among Ohio's CTSA institutions and the importance of investing in the professional development of CRPs. Organizers, speakers and participants contributed to a dynamic and engaging event that advanced conversations around workforce development and research excellence.
As Ohio's clinical and translational research community continues to evolve, partnerships like those showcased during Elevate will play an important role in preparing the workforce to meet future opportunities and challenges. The symposium served as a strong foundation for continued collaboration and a shared commitment to advancing clinical research across the region.