Attendees of the 2026 Scientific Sessions will have many opportunities to build meaningful relationships and exchange insights with fellow diabetes professionals throughout their time in New Orleans.

“There’s truly something for everyone at the Scientific Sessions,” said Marlon Pragnell, PhD, the ADA’s Vice President of Research and Science.  “Come to the sessions, of course, but also make space to connect with colleagues, both familiar and new. We’re all here with a shared purpose: to deepen our understanding of diabetes so we can better prevent, treat, and ultimately cure the disease. That shared mission creates an environment where people are open, collaborative, and eager to exchange ideas. It’s an incredible place to spark new thinking, share your science, and feel part of a thriving community.”

Networking opportunities will be woven throughout the conference, held June 5–9 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, beginning with an early look at the Poster Hall and Exhibit Hall during the Networking Reception.

“I always find the Exhibit Hall to be another great feature of the meeting,” Dr. Pragnell added. “It’s a place where you can see how ideas first shared in posters, symposia, and early‑stage presentations eventually connect to real therapies and products that support people living with diabetes. It brings the progression of science into clear view, and because so many colleagues gather there, it’s also a natural spot to network and continue conversations. It’s a meaningful reminder of how far the field has come—and how much promise lies ahead.”

All times listed below are local to New Orleans.

Networking Reception

Friday, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Enjoy an evening of firsts: the first access to exhibitors and the Poster Hall, and the first networking event of the conference. Attendees are invited to tour the Exhibit Hall, browse posters, and engage with friends and colleagues from across the globe. Light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be provided.

WIN ADA Networking Reception

Friday, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

ADA professional members can join the Women’s Interprofessional Network of the American Diabetes Association (WIN ADA) for the presentation of the Lois Jovanovic Transformative Woman in Diabetes Award and the WIN ADA abstract awards. A discussion on WIN ADA activities and networking will follow. Light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be provided.

Obesity Association Network Breakfast

Saturday, 7:30–9:00 a.m.

ADA professional members can join the Obesity Association Network for breakfast. Participants will have the opportunity to meet the ADA team and network with health care professionals, researchers, and advocates dedicated to advancing evidence-based obesity care.

Professional Membership Networking Events (Exclusive to ADA professional members)

Saturday, Sunday, and Monday

ADA professional members can sign up to attend member-only networking events for ADA’s Professional Interest Groups. These will be held from 12:30–1:30 p.m. following the Professional Interest Group Discussion sessions on the following days. Light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be provided.

• Saturday
  • Exercise Physiology
  • Clinical Centers and Programs
  • Diabetes in Primary Care
  • Pregnancy and Reproductive Health
  • Health Care Delivery & Quality Improvement
  • Behavioral Medicine & Psychology
• Sunday
  • Diabetes Self-Management Education & Support
  • Diabetes & Cardiovascular Disease
  • Public Health & Epidemiology
  • Islet Biology, Development, & Function
  • Eye Health
  • Diabetes In Youth
• Monday
  • Nutritional Science & Metabolism
  • Diabetes Technology
  • Foot Care
  • Immunology, Immunogenetics, & Transplantation

5K@ADA—Group Run

Saturday and Sunday

Join the group run to drive change by raising awareness about diabetes and the importance of a healthy lifestyle in preventing and managing diabetes. The 5K@ADA can be completed anytime June 3–10; however, runners and walkers taking part in the group run in New Orleans will follow a course through the French Quarter on Saturday, June 6, or Sunday, June 7. All 5K@ADA participants must register online.

Poster Hall

Friday, 6:30 –8:30 p.m. (Networking Reception Preview)

Saturday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Monday, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

All posters will be on display throughout the meeting. Poster presenters will be available for discussion at their poster boards during one of the three General Poster Sessions scheduled from 12:30 –1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

Exhibit Hall

Friday, 6:30–8:30 p.m. (Networking Reception Preview)

Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Monday, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Engage with hundreds of exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall, which also offers multiple spaces to relax and converse with colleagues. Be sure to visit the ADA booth to connect with ADA staff and learn about membership opportunities and resources.