Once Upon A Preemie 2023 Conference Program Book

Once Upon A Preemie, Inc.

2ND ANNUAL CONFERENCE Black Maternal Health + Neonatal Equity Conference:

Parents, Practitioners, Policies, and Solutions

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17 8 AM-5 PM 2023

University Science Center Quorum 3675 Market St, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19104

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Greetings from Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. President and Board …..................... 3 Planning Committee Welcome Letter ……………….............................…........………………….. 4 Greetings from Congressman Dwight Evans ………...........................................……………. 5 Greetings from PA Black Maternal Health Caucus ………...............................……………. 6 Greetings from City Council of Philadelphia Citation .................................……………. 7 Ways To Support Once Upon A Preemie, Inc …………..............................…………………….. 8 Conference Agenda …………………………................………...........................……………………………. 9 Speaker Biographies ………………...............…………..........................…………….…………………….…. 13 Continuing Education Credits & Conference Evaluation .....………......................… 19 Sponors ……..........................………………………………………….........................……………………………….. 20 Vendors .................................................……………………...........................…………………………....……… 21 Ads …………...............…………..........................…………….………............................................…………….…. 22

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Greetings

FROM ONCE UPON A PREEMIE, INC PRESIDENT AND BOARD

Welcome to Once Upon A Preemie, Inc.’s 2nd Annual Conference entitled “Black Maternal Health and Neonatal Equity Conference: Parents, Practitioners, Policies, and Solutions.” This year’s conference reflects our continued efforts to champion and center Neonatal Equity in the Black Maternal Health policy, advocacy, and solutions agenda. This means that we—Once Upon A Preemie, Inc.—are committed to pioneering transformational educational programs and services designed for healthcare professionals who serve Black birthing families pre, during, and post-delivery, with a special focus on families with premature infants. This also entails partnering with key stakeholders, policy-makers, and parents with lived experiences who are bold, empowered and motivated to use their voices and expertise to move the equity needle forward. Our collective effort will, in turn, hold our healthcare systems accountable to implement vital changes in birth and neonatal equity! Our organizational vision and conference vision remain one and the same because it will take each and every one of us to make our shared vision of neonatal equity our reality. This year alone, as a nation, we’ve witnessed the alarming rise in black maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rates along with the widening gap of associated disparities. As a nation rich with medical and technological advances, these outcomes are unacceptable and demand more! More solutions driven by and for Black women. More funding to support proven solutions that save lives, families, and communities. More policies that protect Black birthing bodies. More champions, leaders, allies, and advocates to demand change. As we convene our 2nd Annual Conference, we need your hand in equity partnership, leadership, and advocacy to effect change from the seat in which you sit. After we leave this safe space, let us be great stewards of the information, education, networking, and solutions we’ve learned here today. Let us return to our respective institutions and be that leading voice of empowerment, change and advocacy. To our preemie parents, remember, our babies, our stories, and our lived experiences matter! It is what we have lived through that will transform how care is delivered to preemie babies globally, but it starts with us! I encourage you to lean into every presentation, every presenter, every story, and every dose of reality to return home ready to endure the road of perseverance ahead. Remember, we didn’t land in this crisis overnight, and it won’t be resolved overnight. While addressing this crisis will take time, we here at Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. stand with you, because we know that “together our partnership will eliminate Black maternal health and neonatal inequities.”

In Preemie Parent Power,

Jenné Johns, MPH Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. President & Board Chair

Stephanie Johns, M.e.D Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. Board Member

Armenda McWilliams-Pettey Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. Board Member

Welcome to the Conference

Dear Attendees, Each one of us works in the area of maternal child health and we have seen first-hand the troubling, life and death challenges that befall pregnant people of color. We also witness the ongoing challenges of having the highest rate of premature births and/or stays in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) across the United States. There are many groups that speak to this problem, but rarely do we see the needle truly move in a positive direction. We, the planning committee, challenge you to not just walk away with some earned education credits and a few business cards at the end. We urge you to speak up, suggest ideas and brainstorm with us as we continue to impact this community in a way that has never been done before. Let’s join hands, let’s lift each other up, and let’s get to work. Sincerely,

Deborah Discenza Alliance for Black NICU Families

Gabrielle Pina, D.O., FAAP Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital

Mitchell Goldstein, M.D., M.B.A., C.M.L. Loma Linda University School of Medicine

Stacey N. Thomas, MPH Almasi Presentation

November 17, 2023 Dear Attendee,

We are writing to you as the co-chairs of the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus, and it is our distinct pleasure to extend our warmest welcome to each and every one of you attending the "Once Upon a Preemie Black Maternal Health and Neonatal Equity Conference: Parents, Practitioners, Policies, and Solutions." This conference is a critical platform for healthcare professionals and perinatal workers, parent and community advocates, and policymakers to come together and address the pressing issue of health disparities affecting Black birthing and preemie families. This significant event, held in partnership with the Perinatal Advisory Council: Leadership, Advocacy, And Consultation (PAC/LAC), exemplifies a commitment to promoting equity and eliminating disparities in maternal health and neonatal care. We believe that your participation will contribute to our collective efforts to improve the lives of Black mothers, infants, and their families in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The PA Black Maternal Health Caucus was established in 2023 with the steadfast goal of tackling the alarming trends of Black maternal mortality and morbidity that persist in our state. We are acutely aware of the urgent need to address these issues through strategic and intersectional legislation and policy initiatives. The caucus aims to provide a collaborative, representative, and action-oriented space for Pennsylvania legislators, advocates, and stakeholders to engage in discussions and take meaningful steps toward rectifying the disparities that disproportionately affect Black birthing people and infants. One of our most ambitious initiatives is the introduction, advancement, and ultimate passage of the Pennsylvania MOMNIBUS — a comprehensive legislative package that will make critical investments and policy changes to enhance maternal health outcomes throughout our state. We believe that through concerted efforts and the support of all those present at this conference, we can advance these critical policy changes and truly make a difference in the lives of Black families across Pennsylvania. As we embark on this transformative journey, we want to emphasize the importance of centering voices, lived experiences, and solutions from Black birthing and preemie families. We recognize that the wisdom and strength of these families are invaluable in shaping the policies and practices that will have a lasting impact. By coming together in solidarity, we can achieve tangible progress and create a future where all mothers and infants, regardless of race, income, or background, have equal access to high-quality healthcare and support. We extend our deepest gratitude to each one of you for your dedication to this cause. Your passion, expertise, and involvement are instrumental in our mission to eliminate health disparities and improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes for Black families. We look forward to the productive discussions, collaborations, and solutions that will emerge during this conference. Together, we can make a real difference and provide a brighter and healthier future for all Black birthing and preemie families in Pennsylvania. With warm regards and high hopes,

State Representative Morgan Cephas

State Representative Gina H. Curry

State Representative La'Tasha D. Mayes

Partnership

Ways to Support

We welcome all healthcare professionals, parents, parent

advocates, policy makers, researchers, students, funders, business leaders, and religious institutions to our community. Let’s stay connected and explore opportunities to partner! Join our listserv for updates about upcoming events,

Mandate Implicit Bias Training

new courses, advocacy and partnership opportunities.

As one step forward in our efforts to raise awareness and offer real-time solutions for addressing health and racial equity in Black Maternal Health and Neonatal Equity. Request a demo of

Help Spread the Word

the Once Upon A Preemie Academy e-learning courses today to get started on your implicit bias training journey.

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Advocating for Black Preemie Babies must be synonymous with advocating for the Black Maternal

Health Crisis. It is imperative that we include premature infants and neonatal equity in all Black Maternal Health policy and legislation. Act now! Contact members of congress to support the passage of the Momnibus Act. For more information on Once Upon A Preemie Inc’s Black Maternal Health and Neonatal Equity

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Policy Recommendations, download our Policy Note.

Conference Agenda

Networking Breakfast

8:00 am

Welcome Remarks

8:30 am

Attendees will hear from Once Upon A Preemie, Inc.’s President and learn about OUAP’s past, present, and future initiatives for supporting Black Preemie families. Jenné Johns, MPH President, Once Upon A Preemie, Inc.

Sponsor Remarks

8:40 am

Briana Cannon Community Liaison, University City Science Center

Preemie Parents with Purpose Listen to the lived experiences of Black Preemie parents both during and after their NICU journey. This panel will offer solutions from the perspective of parents and advocates, along with a call to action for healthcare providers and systems.

8:45 am

Panelists: Julian Nixon, Ph.D. Director of Diversity & Inclusion, Clemson University

Moderator: Lydia Seymour Community Action Network (CAN) Coordinator, Philadel- phia Department of Public Health

Theresa Pettaway Executive Director, Pettaway Pursuit Foundation

Shirley Smith Founder, My Kota Bear

Keynote Address: And Then She Was Gone Charles Johnson Founder & Board Chair, 4Kira4Moms

9:45 am

Break

10:45 am

Conference Agenda (con’t)

NICU Equity Lessons: Driving Quality Through Implicit Bias Training Discover how Once Upon A Preemie Academy supports and facilitates equity and family-centric care training to healthcare professionals, systems, and states as they seek to transform the delivery of healthcare for Black Preemie families. Jenné Johns, MPH President, Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. *Not eligible for CME/CE*

11:00 am

Lunch + Exhibitors

11:30 am

Breakout Sessions Breakout Session 1: Local Innovations Driving National Solutions

12:50 pm

This panel will explore the national, state, and local Black Maternal Health and Neonatal landscape. We will examine local initiatives that enhance maternal and child health programs, policies, and family support and emphasize how the lived experiences of Black Birthing families improve birth and neonatal outcomes.

Panelists: Joanne D. Craig, M.S. Chief Impact Officer, The Foundation for Delaware County

Representative Gina H. Curry

Moderator: Jaye Wilson, LPN Founding President/CEO, Melinated Moms

State Representative, Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Breakout Session 2: Innovations in Perinatal Health Workers and Doulas Learn local and national innovations that support Black Birthing women through Perinatal Health Worker and Doula care models. Panelists will explore the support, education, and empowerment available to families and birth workers that lead to healthy birth outcomes.

Panelists: Aza Nedhari, CPM, LGPC

Moderator: Lydia Seymour Community Action Network (CAN) Coordinator, Philadel- phia Department of Public Health

Alexia Doumbouya Founder and President, Cocolife.black

Niesha D. Darden Clinical Research Coordinator, Postpartum Doula

Executive Director, Mamatoto Village

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Compas- sion Cures, LLC

Conference Agenda (con’t)

Breakout Sessions Breakout Session 3: Expressed or Donated: The Power of Moms Milk

12:50 pm

“Moms Milk and Chocolate Milk” is life saving for preemie babies, yet not all mothers receive the necessary education and resources to protect their growing babies. This session will explore the benefits and opportunities to support breastfeeding in the Black Birthing and NICU community.

Panelists: Deborah A. Discenza, M.A. Alliance for Black NICU Families

Moderator: Aly Fuller, PhD, JD VP, Government Affairs and

Nastassia Harris, RN, DNP, IBCLC Founding Executive Director, Perinatal Health Equity Initiative

Intellectual Property Prolacta Bioscience

Break

1:50 pm

F ireside Chat: Views of NICU Equity From Melinated Neonatologists This fireside chat will explore the frontlines of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with Neonatologists who prioritize equity. Learn how melanated. Neonatologists are incorporating equity into every aspect of the Black family’s NICU journey, from a systematic, unit, family, and workforce diversity perspective.

2:10 pm

Panelists: Deborah A. Hoy, M.D., MDIV, FAAP Associate Professor, Clinical Pediatrics MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

Moderator: Tara L. Gonzales, M.D., FAAP Sr. Medical Director, Immunology Sobi, Inc

Diana Montoya-Williams, M.D., MSHP Assistant Professor Pediatrics, Attending Neonatologist Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Angie Patterson, M.D., FAAP Attending Neonatologist, Medstar

Conference Agenda (con’t)

Motivational Moment: Finding Your Authentic Equity Champion Voice Leading with “equity” from the inside out of an organization requires internal leaders, champions, and advocates. Discover how to activate your Equity Champion Voice to lead Black Maternal Health and Neonatal

3:30 pm

Equity within your organization, community and state! Ndidiamaka N. Amutah-Onukagha, Ph.D., MPH, CHES Tufts University School of Medicine

Awards Ceremony

4:15 pm

The awards ceremony will recognize and celebrate Once Upon A Pree- mie, Inc.’s Black Maternal Health and Neonatal Trailblazers. Once Upon A Preemie Board of Directors

4:45 pm

Sponsor Remarks

Valerie Johnson Director of Marketing Huggies Healthcare

Leah Dzintars, Senior Manager, Patient Advocacy, Sage Therapeutics

4:50 pm

Closing Remarks

Attendees will hear closing remarks from Once Upon A Preemie, Inc.’s President. Jenné Johns, MPH President, Once Upon A Preemie, Inc.

5:00 pm

Meeting Adjourns

Speaker Biographies

HOST

Jenné Johns, MPH Jenné Johns, MPH, is a national health equity thought leader, author and advocate for reducing healthcare disparities. While advocating for the needs of her own son, Jenné wrote, “Once Upon a Preemie”, the first of its kind children’s book written for parents of preemies while in the NICU. A graduate of the Disparities Leadership Program at Harvard University Medical School, Jenné has over a decade of experience advocating for policy, and community changes to improve health equity and health outcomes for low-income communities. She also led quality improvement and health equity transformation strategies with the nation’s largest health insurance companies. Jenné is President of Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. and Founder of Once Upon A Preemie Academy, the first and only virtual training academy focused on delivering health and racial equity educational programs for perinatal and neonatal healthcare professionals.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Charles Johnson Charles Johnson has suffered an unimaginable tragedy that strikes too many families – and has made it his life’s mission to save others from the same fate. In April 2016 Charles’ healthy and full-of-life wife, Kira, gave birth to their second beautiful child. But Kira immediately began struggling in ways that the hospital staff could not explain, even as Charles watched and implored the staff that something was horribly wrong. Kira died within hours. Charles was understandably overcome by grief – grief that turned into outrage. He channeled his pain and his passion into founding a nonprofit, 4Kira4Moms, that is dedicated to changing systems to better prevent birth-related deaths. 4Kira4Moms advocates for improved maternal health policies and regulations; educates the public about the impact of maternal mortality in communities; provides peer support to victims’ family and friends; and promotes discussion of maternal mortality as a human rights issue. Charles has shared his story and advocated for change through countless live events and media appearances all over the country, including at the March for Moms rally in Washington, D.C., last year. Last September he testified before the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health about the need to pass the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act of 2017 – which, as you know, was indeed passed by Congress and signed into law. When he is not advocating to improve maternal health practices, Charles is busy raising his two sons, Charles V and Langston.

SPEAKERS Ndidiamaka Amutah-Onukagha PhD, MPH, CHES Dr. Ndidiamaka Amutah-Onukagha PhD, MPH, CHES is the Julia A. Okoro Professor of Black Maternal Health in the Department of Public Health and Community Medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine. As the Founder and Director of the Center of Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice, and the Maternal Outcomes for Translational Health Equity Research (MOTHER) Lab, Dr. Amutah-Onukagha’s research investigates maternal health disparities, reproductive health and social justice, and HIV/AIDS as experienced by Black women. Her work has been presented in 45 manuscripts, 5 book chapters, a best-selling book on Amazon, a textbook on culturally responsive evaluation, and has been featured across media platforms including The Lancet, TEDx, USA Today, and MSNBC. Currently, she is Principal Investigator of two multi-year studies on maternal mortality and morbidity, an R01 funded by National Institutes of Health and an interdisciplinary grant on health equity funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Alexia Doumbouya Alexia Doumbouya, Founder and President of Cocolife.black, holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and is certified in Mental Health Awareness and as a Postpartum Doula. Alexia has appeared on various domestic and international platforms like iHeart Media; and has been quoted by CNN and the CDC, to name a few. She is a change-maker and leading voice on social determinants of health. As a collaborator, Alexia communicates effectively across differences. She offers specialized training for birth workers, doulas, midwives, and medical practitioners. She is an unwavering advocate for healthy babies during the critical first months to five years of life. Alexia empowers mothers and plans healthy solutions with them, not for them. She also launched International Coco Mom Day, making her cause global. Angela M. Patterson, MD FAAP Dr. Angela M. Patterson, MD FAAP, received her B.A. from Wake Forest University, her M.D. at Howard University College of Medicine, and completed her Pediatric Residency Training and Neonatal Fellowship at the University of Maryland Medical Systems. She is double board certified in Perinatal/Neonatal Medicine and General Pediatrics. Dr. Patterson was also a pioneer in IV Catheter Simulation Training in 1998, where she provided the neonatal and pediatric expert content for the software. She worked 10 years at MedStar Washington Hospital Center before leaving in 2010, to join her family and husband on an overseas appointment with the US government in Tunisia, North Africa. Aza Nedhari, CPM, LGPC Aza Nedhari, LM, CPM, MS, brings over 18 years of experience in community organizing, reproductive justice, and program development. As a mother, licensed Certified Professional Midwife, Family Counselor, and the Co-founding Executive Director of Mamatoto Village, Aza is a fiercely committed to dismantling barriers in maternal in child health through a justice- oriented framework. Her dedication extends to a Doctorate in Human Services, focusing on Organizational Leadership and Management, with an emphasis on the sustainability of Black led organizations and cultivating innovative models of perinatal care delivery and workforce development.

SPEAKERS

Deborah A. Discenza, MA Deb Discenza, a passionate advocate for patient families in and out of the NICU, draws inspiration from her experience as the mother of a 30-weeker, now 20-year-old and multiply disabled. Recognizing the need for direct and equal support for families, she co-authored “The Preemie Parent’s Survival Guide to the NICU” and founded PreemieWorld to promoted equality through patient education. In 2020, she co-founded the Alliance for Black NICU Families with Ashely Randolph, aiming for racial and health equity in our space by breaking down barriers to access and equality by addressing barriers through patient education, certifications and family assistance grants. Deb actively contributes to the field, sitting on boards, committees, and writing for several publications. Deborah A. Hoy, MD, MDIV, FAAP Deborah A. Hoy, MD, MDIV is an attending neonatologist and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital’s Level IV NICU. She cares for critically ill preterm and term newborns along with their parents. Dr. Hoy serves as the Medical Director for Neonatal Transport as well as the Neonatal Medical Director of MedStar Transport where she oversees the mobile NICU equipped for various respiratory support methods including high frequency ventilation and the initiation of whole-body cooling for HIE. She also continuous care through the Neonatal Follow up Clinic to former neonatal patients and their parents, supporting their transition from the NICU/SCN to home over the subsequent 12 to 18 months alongside their primary care providers. Gina H. Curry State Representative Gina H. Curry, elected in a November 2021 special election for Delaware County’s 164th Legislative District, serves on several committees & caucuses including Appropriations, Children & Youth, Education, Transportation, Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, Southeast Delegation, PA Women’s Commission and, the Women’s Health Caucus. Prior to being elected state representative, Gina worked as a Diversity Equity and Inclusion/ Racial Equity consultant and trainer, owned Coach Your Vision LLC, and held community- based roles including Vice President of the Upper Darby School Board. With a deep understanding of community needs, she brings advocacy experience in education, women’s health, and real estate/housing to Harrisburg. Diana Montoya-Williams, MD, MSHP Dr. Diana Montoya-Williams is a neonatologist at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), a physician scientist in CHOP’s PolicyLab and an assistant professor of Pediatrics in the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine. In addition to taking care of infants in the NICU, Dr. Montoya-Williams researches racial and ethnic inequities in maternal and infant health outcomes, including immigrant birth outcomes. She also has a special interest in promoting anti-racism efforts in medicine.

SPEAKERS

Jatesha “Jaye’’ Madden-Wilson, LPN Jatesha “Jaye’’ Madden-Wilson is a black woman, mom, social entrepreneur, social impact speaker, maternal health advocate, published author and self-sufficiency coach who has made significant strides in advocating for women of color. Notably, she served as a public speaker and maternal health advocate for Nurture NJ alongside the First Lady and Governor of New Jersey, addressing the Black Maternal Health crisis. In her roles as a Community Health Nurse and Nursing Operational Manager for Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) specializing in LGBTQ+ care, Jaye provided clinical services and managed clinical operations. Her advocacy journey also began at Callen- Lorde, leading her to lobby in Washington, D.C. and Albany, NY. Joanne Craig, MS Joanne Craig, MS, the Chief Impact Officer for The Foundation for Delaware County, brings a wealth of experience in developing and administering supportive family health programs. Acknowledged for her outstanding contributions, Joanne has received many awards including the Athena Leadership Award, March of Dimes, and Woman of Achievement for Health Equity. Notably, she founded the women and children’s services for the former Crozer-Keystone Health System and secured a highly competitive federal Healthy Start grant. Under the Healthy Start program, Joanne helped to significantly decreased the infant mortality rate from 23 infant deaths per 1000 live births to the rate of 14/1000. Her success is in reducing the disparities in Black infant mortality and morbidity rates and improving maternal and birth outcomes is evident. Julian Nixon, PhD Julian Nixon is an award-winning STEM educator, speaker, diversity leader, thought leader, and NICU dad. He has engaged listeners and learners through TEDx stages, radio shows, national conferences, universities, and more. His impressive years of experience have allowed him to walk in the shoes of a college professor, community leader, children’s hospital council member, diversity leader, author, and advocate. His hard work doesn’t stop there. Mr. Nixon spends his off-hours writing his dissertation and enjoying time with his wife and daughter. He is currently the Director of Diversity & Inclusion for the College of Agriculture, Forestry & Life Sciences at Clemson University. Nastassia K. Harris DNP, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC Nastassia K. Harris DNP, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC, is a registered nurse, International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and a mother of four based in New Jersey. She has over 19 years of experience supporting birthing & lactating families, and is dedicated to enhancing access to qualified lactation professionals and improving breastfeeding rates in the Black community. In 2018, Nastassia founded The Perinatal Health Equity Initiative, a non-profit organization advocating for racial equity in Black infant and maternal health. Her latest venture, Ignite Maternal Health, focuses on postpartum and newborn nursing care, leveraging her background in academia to provide education at the community level. As a lifelong learner with a BSN, MSN-ED, and a DNP, Nastassia remains committed to advancing maternal and infant healthcare.

SPEAKERS

Niesha D. Darden Niesha D. Darden is a multifaceted individual, encompassing various roles as a mother, clinical research coordinator, postpartum doula, maternal-child health research consultant, and perinatal health advocate. Her personal experiences as a mother have deepened her understanding and compassion in her professional roles, guiding her commitment to supporting families throughout their unique journeys. Professionally, Niesha plays a pivotal role managing and contributing to grant funded research studies in the Intensive Care Nursery at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and in the NICU at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Shirley Smith Shirley Smith is a business owner, non-profit founder, author, speaker, mentor, life coach, teacher and wife to NBA Two-Time Champion, JR Smith. She was raised with her two brothers by her single mother in Newark, NJ where they had to overcome inner-city adversities. As the proud mom of Dakota, also known as Kota Bear, who was born a micro- premature baby at 22 weeks, she founded the non-profit My Kota Bear, Inc. to serve NICU families. Shirley’s experiences of being raised in the inner city of Newark, work in Early Childhood Education and the passing of her mother at the age of 21 fueled her passion to uplift and give back to those around her. Theresa Pettaway Theresa Pettaway, the Founder and Executive Director of Pettaway Pursuit Foundation, is a passionate maternal and child health advocate inspired by her lived experiences as a mother of three premature babies. Established 2001, the Pettaway Pursuit Foundation, Inc. (PPF), a nonprofit organization spanning Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, serves as Theresa’s platform for pioneering collaborations between doulas and managed care agencies. This initiative aims to provide doula services to the Medicaid population. Theresa actively participates in various advocacy initiatives, including Doula Town Halls, Surveys, and significant events like the Pennsylvania House Democratic Policy Committee Hearing on Meaningful Solutions to Maternal Mortality - Doula Care and Coverage, demonstrating her dedication to maternal health improvement.

EMCEE

Lydia Seymour Lydia Seymour, B.S. works in Philadelphia Department of Public Health’s division of Maternal Child and Family Health as the Community Action Network (CAN) Coordinator. Prior to joining the health department, she worked in health management at Einstein Medical Center for over a decade. During that time, she was blessed to become a NICU mom, spawning a great passion for motherhood and advocacy around the importance of black maternal health. This passion ignited; she joined the Philadelphia CAN community as a way to share her vision for change within black maternal and infant health. She began her journey with CAN as a lived experience expert in June 2020 later becoming one of the co chairs of the CAN Chronic Conditions workgroup before assuming her current role as coordinator. When Lydia is not working, her greatest joys in life include cooking, being outdoors and spending time with her husband and two children.

MODERATORS

Alyson “Aly” Fuller, PhD, JD Alyson “Aly” Fuller, PhD, JD, oversees Prolacta’s intellectual property portfolio, international government affairs, and advocacy. As the creator and leader of the Women’s Leadership Development Academy at Prolacta, she fosters professional development and mentorship for women. With over 15 years’ experience in life sciences and pharmaceutical patent law, Aly joined Prolacta in 2017 after serving as external counsel at Cooley LLP. Apart from her corporate role, she dedicates substantial time to pro bono representation of LGBTQ individuals seeking asylum in the US. Aly, a cum laude graduate of Gannon University and The Catholic University Columbus School of Law, holds a doctorate in immunology from Northwestern University. She is admitted to practice in Washington state, Washington, DC, and before the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Tara L. Gonzales, MD FAAP Tara Gonzales is a Board-Certified General Pediatrician with more than 14 years of BioPharma Medical Affairs experience. She currently serves as Sr. Medical Director of Immunology and leads the Synagis and Kineret Medical Team at Sobi, North America. Tara attended Spelman College where she graduated with a degree in Biology. She obtained her Medical Degree from Meharry Medical College and did her Pediatric residency training at Medical College of Virginia and Howard University. She was a practicing General Pediatrician for 18 years prior to coming into the pharmaceutical industry. Tara and her wife Patricia live in Pensacola, FL. They are proud mothers of 6 adult sons, a teenage grandson and two 2-year-old granddaughters. They also have a 5-year-old Havapoo named Jax! In her spare time Tara enjoys watching all spectator sports. She is an avid professional and college football fan (SEC- Roll Tide) and a proud supporter of Women’s Basketball, both college and professional. But to sum it all up she loves meeting and getting to know people.

Continuing Education Credits

For Physicians: PAC/LAC is accredited by the California Medical Association (CMA) to provide continuing medical education for physicians. PAC/LAC designates this live activity for a maximum of 4.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. For Nurses: The Perinatal Advisory Council-Leadership, Advocacy, and Consultation (PAC/LAC) is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing. This course is approved for 5.5 contact hours. PAC/LAC’s provider number is CEP 5862. Licensee must retain this certificate for a period of four years. For Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES): This activity is sponsored by PAC/LAC, a designated provider of continuing education contact hours (CECH) in health education by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. This program is designed for Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES) to receive up to 4.5 total Category 1 continuing education contact hours. For Licensed Clinical Social Workers/Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists PAC/LAC is approved by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists to sponsor continuing education for LCSW and LMFT. PAC/LAC maintains responsibility for this program/ course and its content. This course is approved for 4.5 LCSW and 4.5 LMFT continuing education units. PAC/LAC’s provider number is 128542.

CONFERENCE EVALUATION

Following the conference, a link to complete the evaluation form will be sent out on November 17th to the email you provided when registering for the conference on Eventbrite. Please be on the lookout for an email from info@onceuponapreemie.org. The evaluation link will expire on November 27, 2023. • Once the link expires, we will be unable to issue certificates. • The evaluation link is unique to your email address. Once Upon A Preemie, Inc., and PAC/ LAC staff cannot resend you the link. Certificates will be emailed by January 5, 2024. Certificate Policy: Make sure to save your certificate. PAC/LAC will assist you with finding your certificate for up to one year from the event. The fee for this service is $25. For assistance with any certificates older than one year from the time of the event, PAC/LAC charges $50 for the first certificate, and $75 for each additional certificate requested each calendar year. A $30 processing fee will be added to requests needing fulfillment within 24 hours.

Thank You to Our Sponsors!

Title Sponsor

Partner Sponsors:

Supporter Sponsors

Evelyn and William Blythe Fund for Health Equity.

In-Kind Sponsor

Thank you to Our Conference Vendors

Amir Group LLC

Thank you to our in-kind donors:

Honored to support Once Upon a Preemie

Respectful Equitable Care

Huggies® Healthcare ™ is a proud supporter of Once Upon a Preemie and their mission to drive equitable health outcomes for 1,000,000 Black Preemie Families. We do this through the products and programs we deliver to healthcare professionals and the families they serve.

In 2021 Huggies® Healthcare ™ supported, through an education grant, the launch of AWHONN’s (The Association of Women’s Health, Obstetrics, and Neonatal Nurses) Respectful Maternity Care Evidence Based Guideline and Toolkit to support healthcare professionals in providing respectful equitable care to every patient, every interaction, every time. Our products

Celebrating over 10 years and 30,000,000 diapers created specifically for low-birth-weight babies. These products were developed in partnership with NICU Nurses and Neonatal Therapists to help maximize skin health, growth, and development.

Questions? For more information, contact your local Huggies® Healthcare representative: call 855-955-4100, email huggieshealthcare@kcc.com or visit www.huggieshealthcare.com. ® Registered Trademark and *Trademark of Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. © KCWW

WE SALUTE Once Upon A Preemie, Inc.

Independence Blue Cross is proud to support the Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. 2nd Annual Conference . We recognize Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. for its commitment to maternal health equity. Independence remains steadfast in its support of individuals and community organizations dedicated to improving the lives and health of the people in our region.

we bring something rare to rare diseases

At Sobi, we’re dedicated to transforming the lives of people with rare diseases. This is why we specialise in rare diseases, in developing ground-breaking treatments, and in strong partnerships with patients and other stakeholders. Sobi and Rare Strength are trademarks of Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB (publ). © 2022 Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB (publ) – All rights reserved Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB (publ) SE-112 76 Stockholm, Sweden +46(0)8 697 20 00 Date of preparation: Month Year. NP-XXX sobi.com

Seeing the brain differently makes a world of difference

Learn more about Sage Therapeutics at Sagerx.com

AMERIHEALTH CARITAS PROUDLY SUPPORTS THE Once Upon A Preemie, Inc. 2023 Annual Conference

We applaud all those dedicated to eliminating health disparities and advocating for culturally appropriate care to help improve outcomes for the Black maternal health and neonatal community.

To see how we keep care at the heart of our work, visit amerihealthcaritas.com .

Evelyn & William Blythe Fund for Health Equity

The Evelyn & William Blythe Fund for Health Equity is proud to support Once Upon a Preemie. The Black Maternal Health and Neonatal Care Conference is an important event to bring together the voices of those most impacted by the effects of obstetric racism before, during and after childbirth. The Evelyn & William Blythe Fund for Health Equity recognizes that unless we address racism as a major cause of Black maternal and infant death, the current care delivery system will continue to harm Black birthing people, their families, and communities with little to no accountability.

Iris E. Harvey, CEO/Founding Donor Evelyn & William Blythe Fund for Health Equity

EVERYONE DESERVES A HEALTHY PREGNANCY

PREMATURITY PREVENTION INITIATIVE CAN HELP

The Prematurity Prevention Initiative works to prevent premature births by expanding community awareness of preterm birth risk factors, including the management of chronic diseases throughout pregnancy. We provide support, guidance and critical health information to providers, pregnant individuals and families living in New Jersey.

• Timely and relevant data • Community outreach • Provider-specific materials • Educational presentations

LEARN MORE!

FOLLOW US @/NJPRETERM ON SOCIAL MEDIA! The Prematurity Prevention Initiative is a program of Family Health Initiatives supported by funding from the New Jersey Department of Health. Family Health Initiatives is a subsidiary agency of the Southern New Jersey Perinatal Cooperative. 2023.

Once Upon A Preemie, Inc.

SAVE THE DATE For Next Year’s In-Person Event November 16-17, 2024

Engage with us on social media once-upon-a-preemie-academy Onceuponapreemie.org

@onceapreemie

@onceuponapreemie

#NICUEQUITYMATTERS

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