Reflections on the National ICET Symposium: A Journey Through Innovation and Collaboration

Hello, ICET Community!

Reflecting on the incredible few days we spent together at the National Immune Effector Cellular Therapies (ICET) Symposium in sunny Orlando fills me with gratitude and excitement for the future. As one of the course directors, I had the privilege of watching our shared vision come to life in ways we couldn’t have imagined.

From the moment everyone started arriving at the Signia Hotel, there was a buzzing energy that set the tone for the entire event. It was heartwarming to see familiar faces and to meet so many new ones, each bringing unique expertise and enthusiasm.

Our sessions kicked off with some exciting updates in bispecifics and CAR-T therapies, particularly concerning their application for myeloma. These discussions were dynamic, setting a strong premise for practical integration into clinical realms. In exploring advancements for lymphoma, solid tumors, and leukemia, our speakers ignited conversations that had us all rethinking possibilities and potentials within our practices.

Special highlights from Dr. Nashatizadeh on CART neurology and Dr. Majeed on transplant infectious diseases added depth and rich perspective, showcasing the immense value of interdisciplinary approaches in treatments and therapies.

However, it wasn’t all work! We made sure everyone had a relaxing and fun time- whether they floated along the lazy river or reveled in the magic of Disney. Informal settings often spark the most meaningful connections, and I loved seeing these friendships blossom alongside professional networking.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all our phenomenal speakers and attendees who made this event not just a success but a memorable journey of learning, sharing, and growing. Your contribution and participation were invaluable.

For those who couldn’t make it this time—don’t despair! We’re already brewing exciting plans for the future. Join us for the regional ICET in Kansas, an opportunity not to be missed, and mark your calendars for the next national gathering in Charlotte in March 2026. We also have an exciting venture on the horizon with our first international ICET symposium, and we will soon be seeking your input on locations via email and LinkedIn polls.

The community we're fostering is beyond just events; it’s a continuous exchange of ideas and support. Stay tuned, stay engaged, and thank you for being part of this remarkable journey. Together, we’re not just keeping up with advancements—we’re driving them forward.

Warm regards,

Nausheen Ahmed

Zahra Mahmoudjafari

Al Ola Abdallah

Course Directors

, ICET Symposium

P.S. Feel free to connect with us anytime with your thoughts, suggestions, or just to stay in touch! Your engagement is what fuels our collective progress.