Get Ready for the 2025–2026 APS and SPR Journeys Program!

Building on the incredible success of past APS and SPR Journeys Programs, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of the 2025–2026 APS and SPR Journeys Program — and it’s going to be better than ever!

This year’s Journeys Program will include the prestigious 2025-2026 Dr. Francis S. Collins Scholar Award in recognition of the remarkable scientific contributions of Dr. Francis S. Collins (left) and will recognize one outstanding candidate in the Journeys 2025–2026 Program for their potential in academic pediatric research. Potential nominees should demonstrate excellence in scholarship and tremendous future potential growth, exemplified by recent impactful publications, grant and/or project success, or leadership.

The Journeys Program offers engaging virtual sessions designed to inspire and empower early-career investigators in pediatrics. The program includes captivating career journey stories, thought-provoking research discussions, and valuable networking opportunities with experienced Cohort Leaders—providing essential support for early-career physicians in academic medicine.

Participants will join small, cohort groups in eight 1-hour virtual meetings, facilitated by two accomplished leaders in academic pediatrics, many of whom are APS and SPR members. Department chairs across the U.S. and Canada may nominate promising early-career pediatricians.

And that’s not all — participants will join in a high-energy Mini-Gordon Conference at the PAS 2026 Meeting, bringing everyone together for collaboration, innovation, and connection.

Check out more details below and get ready for an unforgettable year of growth, mentorship, and opportunity!

Nominations for the Journeys Program will open on September 4.

2025-2026 APS SPR Journeys Sessions

(all times are CT, except for Mini-Gordon Conference)

November 14, from 10-11am CT

Session 1
Cohort Breakout Discussions
November 14, 11-11:30am CT
Participants: Cohort Members and Leaders – invitation only

Cohort Breakout Sessions* (2nd Fri of month, Dec thru April)
December 12, between 10am-12pm CT
January 9, between 10am-12pm CT
February 13, between 10am-12pm CT
March 13, between 10am-12pm CT
April 10, between 10am-12pm CT
Participants: Cohort Members and Leaders – invitation only

Mini Gordon Conference & Luncheon
April 24, between 7am-12:30pm ET (Boston, MA)
Participants: Cohort Members and Leaders – invitation only

Session 7: Cohort Breakout Discussions
May 8, between 10am-12pm CT
Participants: Cohort Members and Leaders – invitation only

Closing Plenary: Expanding your leadership toolbox- lessons from the business world
June 12, from 10-11am CT

Session 8: Cohort Breakout Discussions
June 12, from 11am-11:30am CT
Participants: Cohort Members and Leaders – invitation only