March has been a busy month at CanFASD! From exciting learning opportunities to celebrating emerging leaders in FASD research, here’s what we have been up to this month.
Upcoming webinar: trauma, PAE, and FASD
We have just announced that our next public webinar will be held on April 17. Understanding the Impact of Trauma in PAE and FASD will build on one of the most popular sessions from the 2025 Canada FASD Conference.
Register now to join Dr. Jacquie Pei, Dr. Carly McMorris, and Shana Mohr as they:
- Share the latest research on trauma and its effects on individuals with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (PAE) and FASD
- Highlight the importance of collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches to care
- Discuss real-world implications for professionals, caregivers, and communities
Now open: Dr. Sterling Clarren FASD Research Award
Applications are officially open for the 2026 Dr. Sterling Clarren FASD Research Award! This annual award recognizes a Canadian student or early career researcher whose work is making a meaningful contribution to the field of FASD. Eligible applicants must be conducting FASD research that integrates research, policy, and practice, with studies that are complete or near completion. The application deadline is next month – April 30, 2026.
Trainee spotlight: Vannesa Joly
We recently kicked off our Trainee Program for 2026! While we can’t wait to introduce you to this year’s incredible cohort, we wanted to take a moment to shine a spotlight on one of our former trainees. Since completing the program in 2022, Vannesa Joly has continued to progress in her doctoral training. She is in the process of completing the dissertation requirements of the School and Clinical Child Psychology doctoral program at the University of Alberta.
Under the supervision of Dr. Jacqueline Pei, Vannesa’s dissertation research focuses on understanding the identity experiences of individuals with FASD. Vannesa has also continued to contribute to knowledge mobilization projects related to the Towards Healthy Outcomes framework, including presenting about it at research conferences in Canada, Norway, and Spain. Vannesa’s journey is a wonderful example of how the program empowers emerging researchers to make a real-world impact!
Two new courses added to our learning hub
Understanding and Supporting FASD in Early Learning Setting is designed for educators, program staff, community organizations, and families. This course provides practical tools to better support children with FASD. Participants will learn what FASD can look like in early childhood, how to approach conversations about FASD with families, and strategies to support children in learning, care, and community settings. By building knowledge and reducing stigma, this training helps create an FASD-informed network of educators, service providers, and families working together to support children and caregivers.
Empowering Advocacy Skills for Families, Caregivers, and Individuals with FASD is a free online training course for people with FASD, families, caregivers, and those who support them. The course provides clear and practical information that can be used to help understand your rights and advocate for yourself or your friend/family member with FASD.
We encourage you to explore these courses and share them with your networks!
Stay connected with CanFASD
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