By DoM Communications | Date published: June 4, 2026

Annual Lupus Symposium Success 

The 8th Lupus Day at UMass Chan Medical School was a great success, bringing together patients, families, advocates, clinicians, researchers, and trainees for a program defined by scientific excellence, patient engagement, and an outstanding spirit of collegiality. 

Held in collaboration with the Lupus Foundation of New England, this year’s symposium featured an exceptional lineup of world-class lupus investigators. Anne Davidson, a leading authority in lupus nephritis and immune mechanisms, Virginia Pascual, internationally recognized for transformative work in lupus immunobiology and single-cell science, and Saira Sheikh, a national leader in lupus clinical trials and patient-centered care, delivered outstanding presentations. Their participation underscored the growing stature of this event and the strength of the lupus community it convenes. 

The patient perspective session added a particularly powerful and memorable dimension to the day. Talaya Reid shared her personal journey living with severe lupus, the burden of refractory disease, and her experience undergoing CAR T cell therapy at UMass Chan. Her conversation brought authenticity, courage, and hope to the program, reminding all in attendance that scientific innovation has its greatest meaning when viewed through the lived experience of patients.  

The poster session showcased impressive work across basic, translational, and clinical lupus research. Just as notable was the atmosphere throughout the day, warm, engaged, and deeply collaborative. 

Lupus Day continues to reflect the best of what UMass Chan can offer through partnership, scholarship, and commitment to improving the lives of people living with lupus.