Research Transforming Communities: Empowering Health
Saturday, September 27, 2025 • 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
We are thrilled to invite you to the Research Transforming Communities (RTC) Healthcare Symposium, with the theme “Empowering Health.” This event is all about shining a light on the incredible work happening in behavioral health and family medicine, two fields that are central to the well-being of individuals and communities.
At RTC, we aim to spotlight the groundbreaking research and initiatives that are shaping the future of these fields. Through thought-provoking discussions and presentations we will highlight the ways in which behavioral health and family medicine are not only transforming healthcare delivery but also empowering communities to take control of their health and well-being.
This symposium will provide an invaluable platform for professionals to share their work, raise awareness of the challenges and opportunities within these fields, and foster connections that will help drive future progress. By bringing attention to the work being done in behavioral health and family medicine, we hope to inspire further innovation and collaboration that will lead to better outcomes for those who need it most.
Organized by Onvida Health and Arizona Western College, this symposium will highlight the power of collaboration between medical professionals, researchers, and community leaders. Together, we’ll share insights and future goals aimed at improving patientcare and fostering stronger, healthier communities for years to come. Join us as we work together to amplify the impact of research and advocacy in these critical areas, ultimately empowering health for individuals and families everywhere.
Registration is free thanks to the generous donations of the Flinn Foundation.
Symposium Details
Saturday, September 27, 2025
8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Arizona Western College, Schoeing Conference Center
2020 S. Avenue 8E
Yuma, AZ 85365
Parking Information
Cost: Free
Register Now
Registration is required
Registration Deadline:
September 12, 2025
Exhibitor Opportunities
Join us as an exhibitor at the Research Transforming Communities (RTC) Healthcare Symposium, themed “Empowering Health.” This year, we will focus on the pivotal roles of Family Medicine and Behavioral Health in shaping better health outcomes and fostering community well-being. As an exhibitor, you’ll be part of an exciting, collaborative environment where healthcare professionals come together to share ideas, spark innovation, and drive change. It’s a chance to showcase your work, connect with like-minded professionals, and contribute to creating a healthier, more resilient society.
- Dedicated Table: Each exhibitor will have a designated table to showcase their offerings. Scheduled breaks in the event agenda will allow attendees to visit your display. Please note that the exhibit area will be separate from the educational sessions.
- Prominent Exposure: Attendees will be encouraged to visit exhibitor displays.
- Inclusive Participation: Exhibitors may attend presentations and participate in event activities to connect and collaborate with the healthcare community.
Secure Your Spot:
- Cost for Participation: $750
This form is for registration purposes only and does not collect payment. We will contact you within 7 days of submission with additional information regarding payment and next steps. Payment Methods: Check or ACH Transfer. - Event Registration Opens: July 1, 2025
- Event Registration Closes: September 12, 2025
- Registration Form: Click Here to Register
We would love to have you join us at RTC! If you are interested in participating or have questions regarding participating please contact FlinnOpportunities@onvidahealth.org.
Poster Submission
Onvida Health is proud to showcase the vital research undertaken through Flinn Foundation grants and our internal research programs. We are seeking poster submissions that explore original research, clinical trials, quality improvement, population health, process improvement, innovation, and entrepreneurship within the healthcare sector.
The top two posters will receive an award.
1st prize – $300
2nd prize – $200
Poster Submission Requirements:
- Posters must be submitted in the designated poster template format.
- Authors of the top two posters will be required to deliver a short 15-minute presentation.
- To participate as a presenter or content contributor in our Continuing Medical Education (CME) activity, we kindly request completion of a disclosure form. This ensures compliance and upholds the integrity of our educational content.
Important Dates
- July 1 – Poster Submission Form will open.
- August 24 – Poster Submission Form will close.
- September 5 – The winners of the top two posters will be notified via email and will be required to prepare a 15-minute presentation for the symposium on September 27.
- September 27 – Poster winners will be acknowledged the day of the event and present their poster.
Submitting your Poster Walk application does not register you for the Symposium. If you are selected as a winner, you must attend the event and register using the event registration link.
Schedule
Coming Soon
Speakers
Veerauo Vera Konkankit, M.D., was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She earned her bachelor of biological sciences degree from UC Irvine in Irvine, California, pursued a master of physiological science from UCLA in Los Angeles, California, and finally a medical doctorate from Saint James School of Medicine in Anguilla. She completed her residency in family medicine right here at Yuma Regional Medical Center and is board certified in family medicine. Dr. Konkankit areas of expertise include preventative health, primary care innovation, pediatric medicine, lifestyle medicine, and mentoring medical professionals in training. In her free time, Dr. Konkankit enjoys the indoor and outdoor fun with her family, cooking, and needlework.
Dr. Abhinav Chandra is the Vice President of Specialty Care Services at Onvida Health. He is also the Medical Director of the Onvida Health Cancer and Blood Disorder Center and Director of Institutional Research for Onvida Health. He also holds the rank of Assistant Professor of Medicine, New York Medical College and has a FACHE certification. He completed his MBA from UCLA Anderson School of Management in 2021. He is also the Chair of Treatment Steering Committee, Arizona Cancer Coalition, Arizona Department of Health Services. He has more than 30 peer-reviewed publications with over 2000 citations, 3 book chapters and over 60 posters presented in national and international conferences. He has also been the Principal Investigator for his site for more than 30 industries sponsored and population health based clinical studies. His areas of interest include evaluating the role of AI/ ML in healthcare, health care disparity and health services research.
Mary O’Reilly oversees the Foundation’s basic and translational research programs and serves as the Foundation’s lead official in interfacing with the scientific-research community. She also guides the Foundation’s interest in emerging grant opportunities in the biomedical-research sector and measures to assess the impact of Arizona’s investments in biosciences.
Kristina Diaz, MD, serves as President of Onvida Health’s Medical Group where she leads the group’s collaborative vision while advocating for nearly 400 physicians and advanced practice providers who represent more than 35 ambulatory clinics. Dr. Diaz began her leadership career in 2014 as the Associate Program Director of the Onvida Health’s Family and Community Medicine Residency Program. Dr. Diaz then served as Executive Medical Director of Primary Care, Chief Academic Officer and Program Director of the Family Medicine Residency Program.
In 2025, Dr. Diaz was selected as a fellow in the Carol Emmott Fellowship. In 2023, Dr. Diaz served as President of both the Arizona Academy of Family Physicians and the Association of Family Medicine Residency Directors. Dr. Diaz was also selected as Yuma County Chamber of Commerce’s 2022 Athena Award recipient. The Athena Award recognizes women who have achieved the highest level of professional excellence while dedicating their lives to community and family.
Ed Paul is a Clinical Associate Professor of Family & Community Medicine at The University of Arizona College of Medicine and at Creighton University School of Medicine-Phoenix. Dr. Paul has worked full-time in academic family medicine in both rural and urban areas throughout his career and is currently in his PGY44 year, a graduate of the St. Joseph’s Hospital Family Medicine Residency Program in Phoenix.
He has been closely aligned with Area Health Education Center (AHEC) programs in Pennsylvania and in Arizona and has been committed to developing rural clinical rotations and teaching skills of rural preceptors as well as studying and promoting primary care workforce development. Dr. Paul has championed the start-up and rebuilding of multiple family medicine residency programs in PA and AZ since accepting his first residency faculty position at The Phoenix Baptist Family Medicine Residency Program in Phoenix in 1986.
Dr. Paul has been a leader and an advocate for our specialty via various paths in addition to academic family medicine. He is Past-President, board member, and legislative task force member of The Arizona Academy of Family Physicians and has been honored as Family Physician of The Year in Arizona. He has represented Arizona as a Delegate to the American Academy of Family Physicians for the past five years. He also served as the primary care physician member of The Arizona Medical Board for seven years.
Dr. Paul is currently serving in the role of Director of GME Implementation, Arizona AHEC Program, supporting and advising FQHCs, CAH’s, RHC’s, and tribal sites that are interested in starting new residency training programs.
Reetika Dhawan is a visionary leader in education, known for her dynamic leadership and transformative impact. With master’s degrees in physics and applied mathematics, she is pursuing a doctorate in Instructional Design. As the CEO of Entrepreneurial College and VP of Workforce & Healthcare Programs at Arizona Western College, Reetika bridges education and industry, ensuring students gain essential skills for today’s workforce. Her strategic vision has led to groundbreaking programs tailored to meet the needs of students and employers. Recognized as a thought leader, she has influenced policy and driven positive change, earning awards like the Vice President Innovation Award, Teacher of the Year, Heart of Yuma, and the Athena International Award. Passionate about education’s power to uplift lives, Reetika inspires the next generation of leaders with innovative programs such as AI-based courses and fast-track micro-credentials. Her dedication to educational innovation and empowerment makes her a beacon of inspiration worldwide.
Parking Instructions
Please park in P1 and make your way to the building labeled 3C. You will see Onvida Health signage and members of our team will direct you to the conference room.