GW Dermatology at ODAC 2026

- GW Dermatology Demonstrates National Leadership at ODAC 2026 -

The 2026 ODAC Dermatology, Aesthetic & Surgical Conference (January 16–19, Orlando, Florida) once again proved why it is considered a cornerstone event in clinical dermatology, renowned for its “practical pearls” and high-impact educational sessions. This year, the George Washington University (GW) Department of Dermatology maintained an extraordinary leadership presence, with GW faculty serving as key architects of the conference’s scientific program and educational direction.

- GW Dermatology Leadership at ODAC 2026 -

GW faculty occupied the highest leadership tiers of the conference, ensuring the department’s academic rigor and clinical expertise helped shape the national standard of care:

Dr. Adam Friedman, MD — Conference Co-Chair
As Chair of Dermatology at GW, Dr. Friedman served as a primary Co-Chair of ODAC 2026. In this role, he helped shape the entire scientific curriculum and led high-profile sessions, including “The Forgotten 4: Lichen Planus, Warts, Bullous Pemphigoid, & Fungal Infections.”

Dr. Vishal A. Patel, MD — Conference Co-Chair
Director of Cutaneous Oncology at the GW Cancer Center, Dr. Patel transitioned into a Co-Chair role for 2026, leading the surgical and oncology tracks and delivering critical updates on high-risk skin cancers and hedgehog inhibitors.

- GW Faculty Presence - 

Dr. Emily Murphy, MD — First-Time ODAC Speaker
Dr. Murphy delivered her first presentation at ODAC, marking an exciting milestone for both her and the department.

Dr. Anna Yasmine Kirkorian, MD — Faculty Speaker
Chief of Dermatology at Children’s National (GW affiliate), Dr. Kirkorian served as an expert speaker focusing on pediatric dermatology and the evolving role of JAK inhibitors in children.

Heather Sawrey — Biologics Coordinator
Representing the clinical operations side of GW Dermatology, Heather provided practical, frontline insight into navigating biologics and prior authorizations — an essential and often underrepresented perspective in national discussions.

- Commitment to Trainee Engagement and Career Development - 

Beyond faculty leadership, GW Dermatology’s presence at ODAC 2026 strongly reflected the department’s dedication to trainee engagement and professional growth. A majority of GW Dermatology residents attended the conference, actively participating in sessions, networking, and national discussions.

Dr. Nagasai Adusumilli served as an onsite correspondent for the meeting.

Mina Farah and Nikkia Zarabian, both GW SMHS students and dermatology research fellows , were present as first-time Dermatology Digest news correspondents.

These milestones highlight GW Dermatology’s commitment not only to academic leadership, but also to fostering the next generation of dermatology leaders through meaningful national exposure and career development opportunities.

Take a look at the photos below for a visual recap of the GW Dermatology team in action at

ODAC 2026!