Conferences

Youth and Young Adults Research Core

The Youth and Young Adults Core hosts conferences for educators and youth mentors to network, learn about new applied research, and promote equitable empowerment.

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AASP Pacific Northwest Regional Student Conference

The 2025 AASP Pacific Northwest Regional Student Conference, hosted at the Hallie E. Ford Center at OSU, was a dynamic two-day event focused on advancing the field of sport and exercise psychology. It brought together students, professionals, and experts to explore innovative research, practical applications, and emerging trends in the discipline.

The conference featured

  • Poster and oral presentations showcasing student and professional research.
  • Keynote addresses from leaders in the field, including Dr. Julie McCleery, Dr. Jessyca Arthur-Cameselle, and Dr. Fernando Frias, who shared insights on youth sports ecosystems, career development in sport psychology, and applied practices in collegiate athletics.
  • Networking opportunities and student socials designed to foster collaboration and mentorship.
  • A strong emphasis on student development, with sessions tailored to inspire and support early-career professionals.

Joining Our Youth (JOY)

JOY conferences are hosted by the Oregon School Based Health Alliance (OSBHA) in collaboration with the Hallie Ford Center's Youth and Young Adults Core.

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2025 JOY Conference

The conference featured the work of over 30 active youth leaders ages 15–24 and provided hands-on interactive opportunities for youth and adults alike to engage in authentic youth-adult partnerships. Furthermore, the event highlighted the impact of school-based health centers and their upstream approach of providing healthcare to children and youth on school grounds.

The Joining Our Youth conference hosted sessions and panels that covering topics ranging from youth engagement and empowerment, policy and sustainability, culturally responsive clinical approaches to child and adolescent care, and cross-sector partnerships to ensure participants left with the tools and inspiration to collaboratively and effectively enhance their systems in an equitable manner. Nearly half of the sessions this year were led by youth.

2024 JOY Conference

This two-day event brought together approximately 200 youth, educators, and practitioners from across the state to celebrate and strengthen the role of young people in advancing school health services. Around 30 youth leaders, aged 15 to 24, shared their insights on policies and practices that address the unique needs of rural, urban, and suburban communities.

The conference featured interactive sessions designed to foster meaningful youth-adult partnerships and emphasized the importance of school-based health centers and other essential health services in educational settings. Attendees engaged in discussions and workshops covering a wide range of topics, including youth empowerment, policy development, sustainable practices, culturally responsive care, and cross-sector collaboration.

Participants had opportunities to network, explore informational exhibits, and take part in community-building activities. Continuing Medical Education (CME) and Continuing Education (CE) credits were offered, and the event included meals, on-site parking, and conference materials for all attendees.

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