Second-year Master of Science in Forensic Science students, along with members of the faculty, attended the 2026 American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) meeting in New Orleans, La., Feb. 9-14. AAFS is a professional organization that aims to connect forensic scientists of all disciplines and all backgrounds. Membership spans worldwide and the conference provides an opportunity for members to come together and connect while learning more about the field that unites them all. 

The theme of this year’s meeting was “Back to Basics,” which put a focus on prioritizing ethics and standards, as well as objectivity and discipline in the pursuit of justice. Throughout the week, students were able to attend several presentations, posters, and sessions that highlighted these important themes, and displayed an array of casework and research across a variety of disciplines. 

Students also attended several receptions and events in which they could network with their peers and receive meaningful advice from potential employers and other professionals already established in the forensic field. 

Congratulations to Molly Trautman ’26M, Mary Matya ’26M, Emma Muller ’26M, Raymond Smikle ’26M, and Nicole Dallara ’25 ’26M for their attendance and involvement in such a prestigious event. Additional recognition goes to Joel Moss ’26M, Liliane Audet ’26M, James Seltzer ’26M, Hailee Weiss ’26M, Lauren Kennedy ’26M, Jean Poulson ’26M, and Mara Dominguez ’26M for giving excellent poster presentations on their respective research projects, which they have been working diligently on for over a year. 

In addition, congratulations to Prof. Edward Schikel, who gave an oral presentation, and to Program Director Dr. Fabio Oldoni, who served as co-moderator of a session on forensic investigative genetic genealogy, and as a judge for oral and poster presentations.

The conference allowed the students to spend time together while exploring New Orleans, including experiencing some Mardi Gras traditions and events. The week ended with a wonderful student/faculty group dinner at a restaurant on Bourbon Street before heading home.