2nd Annual Medical Cannabis Conference - A Consortium of Medical Cannabis Visionaries (October 12, 2024)
2024-10-12 08:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | University of Maryland School of Pharmacy Baltimore, MD, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, United States
2nd Annual Medical Cannabis Conference
A Consortium of Medical Cannabis Visionaries
Saturday, October 12, 2024
University of Maryland School of Pharmacy
Baltimore, MD
We are thrilled to announce that our 2nd Annual Medical Cannabis Conference has now been scheduled! Join us this fall in Baltimore for an unforgettable day of connecting with clinical cannabis experts.
The event will feature a keynote from renowned cannabis physician, author, and Harvard Medical School instructor, Peter Grinspoon, MD. We look forward to bringing you a stellar lineup of speakers including SCC Board Members, representatives from the Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics program, local policy advocates, and others who are blazing the trail of patient-centered cannabis care and research.
Agenda

Peter Grinspoon, MD
Keynote Speaker

Deondra Asike, MD

Dustin Sulak, DO

Mary Lynn Mathre, RN

Tanya Scott Cannady, DNP, MHR, RN, NEA-BC, CPHIMS

Andrew Garrison, MPA

Patricia Frye, MD

Dawn Marie Steenstra, CEO, LPN

Laura Barrett, MBA BSN RN

Deborah Miran

Codi Peterson, PharmD, MS

Andrew Coop, PhD

Jahan Marcu, PhD

Max Alzamora, MD

Leah Sera, PharmD, MA, BCPS

Sandra Carrillo, MD

Bobby Vincent, III, MS, PharmD, RPh

Linda Klumpers, PhD

David Wolinsky, MD

Windi Muraszka, DNP

Shawn Casey, JD

Issac Wright, MBA

Peter Grinspoon, MD
Keynote Speaker

Peter Grinspoon, M.D. is a primary care physician, cannabis specialist and an Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He is the author of the book ‘Seeing Through the Smoke: A Cannabis Expert Untangles the Truth about Marijuana’, which came out on 4.20.23. He is a TedX speaker, a national media figure and the author of the groundbreaking memoir ‘Free Refills: A Doctor Confronts His Addiction’

Deondra Asike, MD

Deondra Asike, MD is double board certified in anesthesiology and pain medicine. She is a Clinical Associate in the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine at Johns Hopkins since 2015. She is a veteran of the United States Air Force and deployed to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan in 2013. She received her medical degree at Georgetown University School of Medicine. Dr. Asike completed her anesthesiology residency at the San Antonio Military Medical Center and fellowship training in pain medicine at the University of Maryland. Dr. Asike is currently serving a second term on the Maryland Department of Health Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Advisory Board. Additionally, she chairs the Maryland Cannabis Public Health Advisory Council and The Maryland State Medical Society Cannabis Committee. She is a specialty expert and Maryland Spokesperson for Doctors For Drug Policy Reform, the nation’s first physician organization dedicated to the legalization, taxation, and effective regulation of cannabis for adults. She believes strongly in a holistic approach to chronic pain management that includes proper nutrition, physical therapy, behavioral therapy, and cannabis as medicine. Dr. Asike is a certifying provider with the Maryland Cannabis Administration. In 2022 she founded National Pain ReLEAF, a consultation practice primarily focused on guiding both patients and members of their healthcare team through a safe and effective incorporation of cannabis into a comprehensive pain treatment.

Dustin Sulak, DO

Dr. Dustin Sulak is a traditional osteopathic physician and expert in integrative medicine. His clinical practice in Maine focuses on treating refractory conditions in adults and children. Dr. Sulak is an internationally-renowned expert in medical cannabis, the author of Handbook of Cannabis for Clinicians: Principles and Practice, and co-founder of Healer, a medical cannabis education resource and products company. He serves on the board of directors of The Society of Cannabis Clinicians and is a passionate educator and leader in the medical cannabis field.

Mary Lynn Mathre, RN

Mary Lynn (ML) Mathre, RN, MSN is the President and co-founder of Patients Out of Time, a national non-profit founded in 1995 and dedicated to educating health care professionals and the public about the ECS and the therapeutic use of cannabis and first President and founding member of the American Cannabis Nurses Association in 2010. ML graduated from the College of St. Teresa in Winona, MN in 11975 and began her nursing career in the US Navy Nurse Corps. She earned her MSN degree from Case Western Reserve University in 1985 with her thesis on Marijuana Disclosure to Health Care Professionals. Her publications include Cannabis in Medical Practice: A Legal, Historical and Pharmacologic Overview of the Therapeutic Use of Cannabis (1997) and Women and Cannabis: Medicine, Science and Sociology (2003, co-editor). She was among the first group to become certified as an Addictions Registered Nurse (1989) and worked in several addictions treatment programs and served as the Addictions Consult Nurse at the University of Virginia’s Health System. More recently she is a founding member and President of the Academy of Cannabis Education which will continue the national clinical cannabis conference series originated by Patients Out of Time, while Patients Out of Time focuses on patient education and work to de-schedule the plant.

Tanya Scott Cannady, DNP, MHR, RN, NEA-BC, CPHIMS

Dr. Tanya Scott Cannady is a registered nurse with a diverse background in clinical and educational knowledge. She has functioned over the past 30 years as a transformational leader and disruptor. In 2023, she obtained a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership from the University of San Francisco, alongside a Certificate in Cannabis Therapeutics from Pacific College. Dr. Scott Cannady’s illustrious career is marked by her role as the Northern California Regional Director of Patient Care Services for Kaiser Permanente. She has previously co-lead the equity, inclusion, and diversity program in the East Bay for Kaiser reflecting her unwavering commitment to creating a healthcare environment that champions social equity and inclusivity. As an executive board member and treasurer for the American Cannabis Nurses Association, she is at the forefront of integrating cannabis therapeutics into patient care, advocating for a human-centered approach that prioritizes patient well-being and social equity in cannabis-centered care.

Andrew Garrison, MPA

Andrew Garrison is the Chief of the Office of Policy and Government Affairs for the Maryland Cannabis Administration and leads the Administration’s regulatory, legislative and intergovernmental efforts. He has held this position since September of 2022, which included the agency’s efforts on the adult-use implementation and Social Equity licensing application round, and lottery awards. Prior to serving in this capacity, he worked for the Maryland General Assembly’s budget office for four legislative sessions, with a particular focus on the State’s health regulatory agencies and behavioral health programs. He holds a Masters of Public Service and Administration from Texas A&M University with a concentration in Health Policy and Policy Analysis and a Bachelors of Arts from the University of Minnesota.

Patricia Frye, MD

Dr. Frye earned her medical degree at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. After completing her pediatric residency, she trained in Anesthesiology at Baylor College of Medicine. Dr. Frye focuses on the role of cannabis in the management of chronic pain, inflammation, autoimmunity, neurodegenerative disorders, autism, seizure disorders, and psychiatric conditions. Dr. Frye lectures internationally, educating medical providers, patient groups, policy makers, businesses, and government agencies on the endocannabinoid system and medical benefits of the cannabis plant. In 2018 she authored the book “The Medical Marijuana Guide: Cannabis and Your Health”.

Dawn Marie Steenstra, CEO, LPN

Dawn-Marie has been a bedside and community nurse for 26 years. As a passionate advocate for medical cannabis since her own cancer journey a decade ago, she now owns a consulting practice for cannabinoid therapeutics as an approved Clinical Director of Dispensaries for Maryland: Entourage Consulting Services. She works to help care for patients who have chosen to utilize cannabis for treatment for distressing symptom management. As a founding board member of the American Cannabis Nurses Association, Cannabis Nurses Network, and the National Clinical Director Consortium, Dawn-Marie is a pioneer in this new emerging aspect of healthcare with over a decade of experience with hundreds of patients.

Laura Barrett, MBA BSN RN

Nurse Laura is the Founder/Executive Director of the National Clinical Director Consortium, Owner, and Operator of Ask Nurse Laura, and on the Board of multiple non-profits including the Connor Sheffield Foundation. Additionally, she is teaching faculty at University of Maryland School of Pharmacy in the Master’s of Cannabis Science and Therapeutics program. She has worked in each of the plant touching cannabis fields from growing, processing, and opening dispensaries, as well as sales, marketing, and compliance. Nurse Laura works with providers, patients, caregivers, cannabis businesses, and traditional workplaces to educate, advocate, and collaborate to find the best options for improving quality of life in a safe, reliable manner.

Deborah Miran

Deborah Miran was a member of the Natalie M. LaPrade Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission from 2013- 2016, and was also a member of the executive committee, policy, and research subcommittees, and was chair of the education subcommittee. She was responsible for developing education programs for doctors and patients, and was also an integral part of crafting the current regulations. Prior to the commission she was president and founder of Miran Consulting, Inc. where she advised both brand and generic drug makers on the FDA approval process. Ms. Miran was senior director of regulatory affairs for Alpharma, a generic drug manufacturer, where she directed the submission activities for new and abbreviated new drug applications to the FDA. She has spent over 30 years in the US pharmaceutical industry. Ms. Miran received her bachelor of science in chemistry from Iowa State University.

Codi Peterson, PharmD, MS

Dr. Codi Peterson is a pediatric pharmacist and cannabis science expert. Leveraging a decade of clinical pharmacy experience, Codi strives to bridge the gap between healthcare and cannabis through education and advocacy. He is a PharmD graduate from Duquesne University and later graduated with an MS in Medical Cannabis Science & Therapeutics from UMaryland, Baltimore. Codi is the Chief Science Officer of The Cannigma, a science-forward media company dedicated to helping the world understand cannabis. Dr. Peterson is also an associate clinical professor at UC Irvine, where he contributes to advancing medical education. Additionally, he teaches pharmacology to paramedics in Southern California through OCEMT, and continues to practice pharmacy in an emergency department to this day. Codi is a co-founder of the Pharmacists Cannabis Coalition of California (PCCC), a public-benefit nonprofit dedicated to educating and elevating California pharmacists in the cannabis space.

Andrew Coop, PhD

Dr. Andrew Coop is a professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and associate dean for graduate programs at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. Dr. Coop received his PhD from the University of Bristol in the area of chemistry of drugs with abuse liability. He has been a faculty member in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences since 1999, serving as chair of the department from 2007-2015. His NIH-funded research area focuses on the design and synthesis of new agents to delineate the mechanisms of action of drugs. Dr. Coop has a passion for communicating with the public about science, with the goal of encouraging a diverse next generation of professionals. He has been quoted in publications including The Atlantic, The Smithsonian, the Washington Post, and the best-selling book Dreamland. He is sought for lectures on his expertise on the chemistry and pharmacology of illicit drug use, serves as an expert witness in federal criminal trials, and testified to the US Senate HELP Committee in February 2019 on approaches to treat pain during the opioid crisis.

Jahan Marcu, PhD

Jahan Marcu, Ph.D is one of the top researchers and industry experts in the field, contributing to many innovative discoveries, applications, and standards for medical cannabis and its laboratory analysis, cultivation, manufacturing, and dispensing. He is a court qualified expert witness for cannabis and synthetic drugs, and is cited in case law. Dr. Marcu has also created training for the industry and internationally accepted methods for cannabis analysis, and has founded institutions and organizations for research, education, and training programs.

Max Alzamora, MD

Surgeon graduated from the San Martín de Porres University (2010), Master in Occupational Medicine, with studies in Functional Medicine at the IFM (USA). Diploma of Advanced Studies in Endocannabinology, Cannabis and Cannabinoids (University of Rosario – Argentina 2021).
Founder and President of the Peruvian Association of Cannabinoid Medicine in addition to being a Board Member of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians Latam Chapter.

Leah Sera, PharmD, MA, BCPS

Dr. Sera is an Associate Professor and Vice Chair of Academic Affairs in the Department of Practices Sciences and Health Outcomes Research at the University of Maryland Baltimore (UMB) School of Pharmacy. She is program co-director for the Graduate Studies in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics.
In the Doctor of Pharmacy program, Dr. Sera teaches a variety of topics in required and elective courses in the PharmD curriculum. She teaches several courses in the Medical Cannabis program, including an introduction to medical cannabis history, culture, and policy and a course introducing students to patient care and the clinical uses of medical cannabis. Dr. Sera has served as a clinical pharmacist on palliative medicine and transitional care teams. Dr. Sera has been invited to speak on pain management, palliative medicine, and cannabis therapeutics at professional medical and pharmacy conferences and medical centers such as the National Institutes of Health. Her research interests include social determinants of health, health disparities, big data, medical cannabis utilization, and pharmaceutical health policy.

Sandra Carrillo, MD

Dr. Sandra Carrillo is a physician, and surgeon with a master’s degree in Health Services Management Health, certification in Regenerative Medicine and Epidemiology of Investigation. She is co-founder and President of the Colombian Medical Association of Medicinal Cannabis, Co-founder and Medical Director of Medicann Ips. Editorial and on the Review Board of the American Journal of Endocannabinoid Medicine (AJEM). as well as Board Member of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians Latam Chapter. Dr. Carrillo is co-creator of the Diploma in Therapeutic Applications of Cannabinoids from the University CES and the Colombian Medical College/ASOMEDCCAM.

Bobby Vincent, III, MS, PharmD, RPh

Bobby Vincent, III, MS, PharmD, RPh is a Clinical Cannabinoid Pharmacist and activist driven by a passion to bridge the cannabis industry with communities in need. Dr. Vincent currently serves the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area as a corporate regulatory affairs specialist and medical consult– serving as the regulator for multiple facilities and providing care for its hundreds of patients. Dr. Vincent is the founder of the non-profit Cannabis Health Alliances, building partnerships to advance therapy, policy and patient accessibility. Dr. Vincent is also the founder of Sheets Rolling Company, a hemp-based paper company for cannabis goods. He lends his time serving on the Board of Directors for the Society of Cannabis Clinicians and The Science & Regulatory Affairs Committee of the Council for Federal Cannabis Regulations.

Linda Klumpers, PhD

In the Netherlands, I grew up and earned a M.Sc. in Neuroscience from the University of Amsterdam. During my training at the Leiden University Medical Center, I obtained a Ph.D. in Clinical Pharmacology of Cannabinoids (see thesis) and I became a board certified Clinical Pharmacologist. While doing my Ph.D. studies, I worked at the Centre for Human Drug Research in Leiden as a Clinical Scientist on a variety of clinical studies. I have been studying cannabinoids in humans since 2006 and I (co-)authored various peer-reviewed cannabinoid publications including primary literature and book chapters. My work received seven honors and awards, including the BJCP Prize, handed out by the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. Noticing an urgent need for objective cannabis information and education in the United States, in 2016, I founded Cannify. Cannify helps patients and clinicians with cannabis safety and risk management, and product and science matching via an online tool, and provides general and customized education. In 2018, I co-founded pharmacology consulting company Verdient Science. In 2020 I successfully co-applied for a €1.9mln grant to research cannabinoids in chronic pain, and I headed the submission for a $1.9mln NIDA grant on behalf of a client to study cannabinoid intoxication reversal that got awarded in 2024. I am a Professor of Pharmacology with the University of Vermont and an Executive Editor of the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.

David Wolinsky, MD

David Wolinsky was raised in the Chicago suburbs and completed his medical school and psychiatry residency training at Northwestern University and University of Michigan, respectively. He stayed on at the University of Michigan to complete an Addiction Psychiatry fellowship with the goal of honing his capacity for diagnosing and treating Substance Use Disorders (SUDS) and learning about clinical research opportunities in this realm. Throughout his training, David developed a keen interest in clarifying the adverse effects of cannabis as well as its potential medical benefits. This interest has followed him to the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where he has worked as a study physician on numerous projects exploring the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of cannabis and cannabinoid products. He has continued this work as the Medical Director of the Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit (BPRU), overseeing the medical aspects of the many clinical studies occurring on the unit. One of his more recent areas of focus has been the capacity of cannabis to yield psychedelic effects when administered in a treatment setting. He recently published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology a narrative review covering the literature on this topic and will soon be working on a randomized, placebo-controlled study verifying cannabis’ potential to yield mystical experiences in a guided therapy session.

Windi Muraszka, DNP

Windi Muraszka, DNP, MS-MCST, CNM, NP is a dual-certified Nurse-Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner providing full scope care to patients in New York City since 1996. She began integrating medical cannabis therapeutics into her practice in 2019. Dr. Muraszka graduated from the MCST program in 2022, completed her doctorate in 2023, and currently serves on the SCC Board of Directors.

Shawn Casey, JD

Shawn Casey serves as the Deputy Chief Officer for Regulatory, Policy & External Affairs at the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority. She joined the CCA in 2022 after practicing law for a decade. Before joining the CCA, Shawn was a Senior Assistant Attorney General in Colorado, where she advised the state’s Marijuana and Liquor Enforcement Divisions for five years. She began her legal career clerking for judges on both the Colorado Court of Appeals and the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. Shawn holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia and a law degree from the University of Arizona.

Issac Wright, MBA

Isaac Wright is the Medical Cannabis Program Manager with the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA). Isaac joined the CCA in July of 2023 with over 20 years of public service experience, including 16 years in leadership and oversight positions. In his role at the CCA, Isaac focuses on promoting patient health and safety through effective program management and administration. Isaac holds an MBA from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BS in Economics from James Madison University.

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CannaConnect: November Members Call (Hosted by Dr. Benson Hasuman)
2024-11-06 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
Welcome to our members-only event series, CannaConnect!
Join us for these monthly member connection calls to introduce yourself, ask questions, and discuss with other members. SCC Board Member / Treasurer, Dr. Benson Hausman, will be hosting our November 2024 call!
Each month will offer an interactive blend of networking, clinical case discussions, and the latest in cannabis news. Connect with fellow SCC members, find or offer mentorship, share insights on clinical practices, and welcome new members to our thriving community.
Benson Hausman, MD
Dr. Benson A. Hausman, MD, MPH, became involved with medical cannabis when from October 2012 to December 2017, he was the Executive Director and Chief Science Officer of the second largest medical cannabis dispensary in California, Elemental Wellness Center (EWC) in San Jose, and President of the Board of Directors of Coastal Americare, Inc., dba EWC. Dr. Hausman was in charge of strengthening the dispensary’s operations and medical work. He developed education, training and quality control of medical services as well as medical research carried out by EWC. He developed educational material on medial cannabis aimed at improving patient care and understanding at the physician, dispensary and local government levels, and was involved in strengthening quality control and safety of medical cannabis products, as well as linking laboratory analysis to specific therapeutic effects and treatment regimes.
Previously Dr. Hausman was an epidemiologist in International Public Health for over 30 years, working with various international aid organizations, including USAID, the Dutch and Danish governments, Doctors Without Borders (MSF), the Royal Dutch Tropical Institute, UNICEF and the World Health Organization. He has managed a diverse range of projects and programs from academic research to national disease control programs (diarrheal diseases, immunizations, tuberculosis). In this context he traveled to more than 25 countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America and Eastern Europe. Dr. Hausman has several publications to his name. He holds a BA degree from Tulane University, a MD degree from the University of Amsterdam, and a MPH degree from Johns Hopkins University.
Currently Dr. Hausman is Treasurer of the Board Directors of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians and is the sole proprietor of LuarBiasa Consulting. He writes a blog: Dr. Benson’s Cannabis Corner.
Must be a member to attend these monthly calls; you can learn more about joining here.
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CannaConnect: December Members Call (Hosted by Dr. Sherry Yafai)
2024-12-04 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
Welcome to our members-only event series, CannaConnect!
Join us for these monthly member connection calls to introduce yourself, ask questions, and discuss with other members. SCC Board Member, Dr. Sherry Yafai, will be hosting our December 2024 call!
Each month will offer an interactive blend of networking, clinical case discussions, and the latest in cannabis news. Connect with fellow SCC members, find or offer mentorship, share insights on clinical practices, and welcome new members to our thriving community.
Sherry Yafai, MD
Sherry Yafai, MD is a Cannabis and Emergency Medicine physician at Providence St. John’s Medical Center since 2009. Dr. Yafai started her medical career at UCSD Medical School graduating in 2005 and UCSD Emergency Medicine Residency in 2009. In 2017, after recreational marijuana laws had passed in California, Dr. Yafai opened her private Cannabis Clinic, the ReLeaf Institute, where she sees patients primarily referred by physicians for cannabis education and treatment. Roughly 75% of her patients are over the age of 50 and prefer to use non-smokable Cannabis products. She is the Secretary of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians, a member of the UCLA Cannabis Initiative and a distinguished speaker for UCSD Center for Medical Cannabis Research, Pacific Neuroscience Institute and multiple other medical programs. In 2018 she was accepted as an Adjunct Associate Professor at John Wayne Cancer Institute working with cannabis and cancer research. This year, Dr. Yafai has worked with the Los Angeles community to put together the first ever CME approved Medical Cannabis Conference designed to educate the healthcare community on dosing, indications and legal perspectives in the recreationally legal setting of California. The ReLeaf Institute Conference proudly hosted Kim Kirchmeyer from the Medical Board of California, the LA County of Public Health, The Department of Cannabis Regulations for LA, Clinical and Cannabinoids Research Journal and the Society of Cannabis Clinicians.
Of all of these positions, her most fulfilling role is as a medical educator. She currently sits on the Advisory Board for Canopy Health International and is a lead expert for cannabis education throughout the country. She has been interviewed by GOOP and The Doctors TV show. As a Board Member for the Society of Cannabis Clinicians, Dr. Yafai works to educate physicians, clinicians, and other health care providers on the most up to date clinical data and research in the field of Cannabis.
Must be a member to attend these monthly calls; you can learn more about joining here.
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January Cerium Journal Club - Challenging the Dogma: Does High-Dose CBD Potentiate THC's Psychoactive Effects? (Host: Jahan Marcu)
2025-01-08 20:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
About
Challenging the Dogma: Does High-Dose CBD Potentiate THC’s Psychoactive Effects?
Event Description:
Join us for a journal club where we will discuss the complex interaction between cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This session will explore a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, five-way crossover trial that investigated whether CBD counteracts the adverse effects of THC and enhances its analgesic properties. The study involved 37 healthy volunteers who received different combinations of THC and CBD or a double placebo on separate visits. This journal club is relevant for researchers, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the intricate relationship between CBD and THC, particularly those involved in cannabis research, clinical practice, or policy-making.
Featured Article:
Gorbenko, A. A. et al. Cannabidiol Increases Psychotropic Effects and Plasma Concentrations of Δ 9 ‐Tetrahydrocannabinol Without Improving Its Analgesic Properties. Clin. Pharmacol. Ther. (2024) doi:10.1002/cpt.3381.
Speakers:
Phil Molloy, MD – Clinical education expert
Teresa Simon, MPH – Public health epidemiologist
Jahan Marcu, PhD – Cannabis researcher
Questions? Email Prctrials.info@gmail.com
PRC+ has education modules available for health care professionals: https://www.prc-trials-plus.com/education
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Special Webinar: Shaping Federal Cannabis/Cannabinoid Policy Under Fire by Steph Sherer (Americans for Safe Access)
2025-01-09 22:30 - 23:30 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
From Tipping Point to Breaking Point: Shaping Federal Cannabis/Cannabinoid Policy Under Fire
Unpack developments and trends from this Congressional session, learn how the election will impact cannabis/cannabinoid policy, and learn the critical need for physicians and health experts to be visible on Capitol Hill to ensure policy changes pave the way for an expanded definition of medicine rather than cementing a new chapter in prohibition.
Meet the Speaker:
Steph Sherer is the foremost international leader and expert on medical cannabis patient advocacy. Her direct experiences with the medical benefits of cannabis and political organizing led Sherer to form Americans for Safe Access (ASA) in 2002, with the purpose of building a strong movement to protect patients and their rights and transform US policy to allow for the recognition of cannabis as medicine. Today, ASA is the largest national patient-centric organization of medical cannabis, wellness, and healthcare stakeholders, addressing knowledge, policy, and regulatory gaps to ensure access to cannabis for therapeutic use and research.

Sherer is a powerful advocate, a skilled spokesperson, and an energetic initiator of strategic campaigns. For over two decades, she has pursued ASA’s vision by articulating the immediate needs of patients and incorporating strategies across many disciplines to break down political, social, academic, and legal barriers and clear the way for a national medical cannabis program and a pathway for the federal recognition of botanical cannabis medicines.

Sherer has devoted her career to disrupting policies perpetuating health inequalities and investing in innovative solutions to close the divide between wellness and medicine. Under her leadership, ASA has achieved many milestones toward its goals, including developing and implementing state medical cannabis access programs, protecting state laws through impact litigation, ending the federal interference with state medical cannabis programs, creating federal protections for medical professionals, creating product safety standards for the cannabis and hemp supply chain and trainings for regulators and workers to adhere to them, participating in efforts to reschedule cannabis in the U.S., supporting the FDA with a new approach and data to establish “currently accepted medical use,” removing federal barriers to research, coordinating efforts at the World Health Organization (WHO) to recognizes the therapeutic uses of cannabis, and ultimately changing the schedule of cannabis in internationally.

Sherer is returning to the role of Executive Director after spending several years advancing federal medical cannabis frameworks abroad, guiding cutting-edge research initiatives, and reforming international drug treaties. Sherer will lead a renewed, nationwide effort to fully integrate cannabis-based medicines into the U.S. healthcare system.
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Everything You Need to Know about CBD
2025-01-17 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
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Over more than 20 years Dr. Kirsten Shepard has established integrated practices that combine medical, chiropractic, acupuncture and physical therapy approaches to whole body care, including the opening of clinics across Texas and in Los Angeles.
Dr. Kirsten Shepard is an expert in her field; she has led educational sessions with other medical professionals and been recognized by notable leaders across health and fitness communities. She has been selected as a Profile of Prominence award recipient in Health Professions by the Texas legislature and received a Special Congressional Recognition from a Texas United States Senator.
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CannaConnect: January Members Call -- Getting the most out of your membership (Hosted by SCC Staff)
2025-01-22 22:30 - 23:30 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
Welcome to our members-only event series, CannaConnect!
Join SCC Program Director Christine Milentis and Membership & Communications Director Erin Pully for the first CannaConnect meeting of 2025!
During this informal gathering you will have the opportunity to meet and network with other members, learn more about our committee relaunch, membership benefits, and discuss ways in which you can be involved in furthering SCC initiatives in 2025 and beyond.
Join us to ask any questions you might have about seeking resources in the medical cannabis space. There will be a membership Q&A so that you can learn how to make the most of your member benefits and we will be able to walk you through any technical difficulties that are prohibiting you from interacting in the SCC membership portal.
Each future month of CannaConnect will be hosted by a member of the SCC Board of Directors and will offer an interactive blend of networking, clinical case discussions, and the latest in cannabis news. You are invited to come connect with fellow SCC members, find or offer mentorship, share insights on clinical practices, and welcome new members to our thriving community.
Thank you for being part of the Society!
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February Cerium Journal Club - Decoding the Clinical Spectrum of Semisynthetic Cannabinoid Toxicity (Host: Jahan Marcu)
2025-02-05 06:30 - 07:30 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
Decoding the Clinical Spectrum of Semisynthetic Cannabinoid Toxicity
Event Description:
This journal club will explore the rising public health concern of semisynthetic cannabinoids (SSCs), focusing on their toxicity and the increasing reports of associated adverse events. SSCs, such as hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), are often marketed as legal alternatives to traditional cannabis, but they can have potent and unpredictable effects. The discussion will center on thew case reports by Puri (2024) and Reiter (2024) which describes patients who developed potentially life-threatening symptoms after using synthetic or semi-synthetic cannabinoids. Key discussion points will include the challenges of regulating these substances, the lack of understanding regarding their long-term effects, and the need for greater awareness among clinicians and policymakers.
Featured Articles:
1. Puri, A., Costanzo, F., Rivera, J. & Bujdos, J. Catatonia Induced by First-Time Use of Synthetic Cannabinoids: A Case Report. Cureus 16, e53324 (2024).
2. Reiter, N. et al. Severe poisoning with semi-synthetic cannabinoids. Ugeskr. Læg. 186, 1–5 (2024).
3. O’Mahony, B., O’Malley, A., Kerrigan, O. & McDonald, C. HHC-induced psychosis: a case series of psychotic illness triggered by a widely available semisynthetic cannabinoid. Ir. J. Psychol. Med. 1–4 (2024) doi:10.1017/ipm.2024.3.
Speakers:
Phil Molloy, MD – Clinical education expert
Teresa Simon, MPH – Public health epidemiologist
Jahan Marcu, PhD – Cannabis researcher
Questions? Email Prctrials.info@gmail.com
PRC+ has education modules available for health care professionals: https://www.prc-trials-plus.com/education
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CannaConnect: February Members Call -- Cannabis & Sex (Hosted by Dr. Windi Muraszka)
2025-02-13 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
Welcome to our members-only event series, CannaConnect!
You are invited to attend the February meeting, hosted by SCC Board Member, Dr. Windi Muraszka, for a conversational gathering to meet and network with other members. She will be presenting newly released research on the topic of cannabis and sex.
Join us to ask any questions you might have about seeking resources in the medical cannabis space. Each month of CannaConnect is hosted by a member of the SCC Board of Directors and will offer an interactive blend of networking, clinical case discussions, and the latest in cannabis news. You are invited to come connect with fellow SCC members, find or offer mentorship, share insights on clinical practices, and welcome new members to our thriving community.
Thank you for being part of the Society!
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SCC Quarterly Meeting: Exploring Evidence-Based Cannabis Treatment Algorithms with CannaKeys
2025-03-26 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Denver)
About
Join us to hear from SCC partner, CannaKeys. The CannaKeys team strives to demystify the emerging field of the cannabinoid health sciences and reinforce the proper pathways for patient care utilizing cannabis and related therapies. They do this by creating platforms that offer easy access to the published science, aggregated critical data points, and guidance to practitioners and patients to ask the right questions and achieve optimal results more quickly.
Event Description:
The increasing use of cannabis for therapeutic purposes presents both opportunities and challenges for clinicians. From a harm reduction perspective and a commitment to generating optimal patient outcomes, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to access reliable, evidence-based information on cannabinoid-based therapies—particularly for chronic conditions that respond inadequately to conventional treatments.
In this interactive Zoom session, we will explore CannaKeys’ condition-specific treatment algorithms, grounded in the latest scientific evidence and designed to enhance clinical decision-making. We will examine their utility and limitations in evaluating patients, customizing cannabinoid-based therapies, and addressing practical considerations in clinical practice.
The presentation will be followed by a Q&A discussion to foster a conversational atmosphere, allowing participants to share insights, ask questions, and engage in dialogue about the integration of evidence-based cannabis therapeutics in clinical care.
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Bios:
Uwe Blesching, PhD
With nearly 20 years of experience in emergency medical services at the San Francisco Department of Public Health (Paramedic Division), Dr. Uwe Blesching, Ph.D., offers invaluable insights into how the choices we make and the drugs we take—both pharmaceutical and recreational—impact the body, mind, and spirit. He is the author of several acclaimed works, including The Cannabis Health Index (3rd edition), Breaking the Cycle of Opioid Addiction, and Your Cannabis CBD: THC Ratio (2nd edition). Challenging conventional views on the war on drugs, Dr. Blesching’s research and expertise highlight the potential of mind-altering plants and practices, when approached through evidence-based frameworks, to play a vital role in preventing and treating chronic conditions. He is also the co-founder and chief science officer at CannaKeys, where he continues to bridge science, wellness, and innovation.

Dave Rosenthal, MFA
David Rosenthal is Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of CannaKeys, where he develops innovative tools to help researchers, healthcare professionals, and patients navigate the science of the endocannabinoid system. Converting complex scientific data into user-friendly applications, David has been instrumental in establishing CannaKeys as a reliable platform for evidence-based insights into the ECS and cannabis therapeutics.

CannaConnect: April Members Call -- Hosted by SCC President Dr. Stephen Robinson
2025-04-16 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
﻿Welcome to our members-only event series, CannaConnect!
You are invited to attend the April meeting, hosted by SCC President, Dr. Stephen Robinson, for a conversational gathering to meet and network with other members.
Join us to ask any questions you might have about seeking resources in the medical cannabis space. Each month of CannaConnect is hosted by a member of the SCC Board of Directors and will offer an interactive blend of networking, clinical case discussions, and the latest in cannabis news. You are invited to come connect with fellow SCC members, find or offer mentorship, share insights on clinical practices, and welcome new members to our thriving community.
Thank you for being part of the Society!
Register

CannaConnect: May Members Call -- Cannabis Pharmacy (Hosted by Dr. Bobby Vincent III)
2025-05-15 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Welcome to our members-only event series, CannaConnect!
You are invited to attend the May meeting, hosted by SCC Board Member, Dr. Bobby Vincent III, for a conversational gathering to meet and network with other members. This meeting will focus on the role of pharmacists in the medical cannabis industry. Please join to contribute your perspective, share updates with the group, and bring any questions that you would like addressed.
Each month of CannaConnect is hosted by a member of the SCC Board of Directors and will offer an interactive blend of networking, clinical case discussions, and the latest in cannabis news. You are invited to come connect with fellow SCC members, find or offer mentorship, share insights on clinical practices, and welcome new members to our thriving community.
Thank you for being part of the Society!
Register

CannaConnect: June Members Call -- Cannabis & Cancer (Hosted by Dr. Katia Tonkin)
2025-06-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
﻿﻿
Welcome to our members-only event series, CannaConnect!
You are invited to attend the June meeting, hosted by SCC Board Member Dr. Katia Tonkin, for a conversational gathering to meet and network with other members. This meeting will focus on cannabis and cancer. Please join to contribute your perspective, share updates with the group, and bring any questions that you would like addressed.
Each month of CannaConnect is hosted by a member of the SCC Board of Directors and will offer an interactive blend of networking, clinical case discussions, and the latest in cannabis news. You are invited to come connect with fellow SCC members, find or offer mentorship, share insights on clinical practices, and welcome new members to our thriving community.
Thank you for being part of the Society!
Register

SCC Quarterly Meeting: The Untold Story of SCC's Activist Legacy
2025-06-25 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Join us to hear from Dr. Jeffrey Hergenrather and Fred Gardner, founding members of the Society of Cannabis Clinicians (SCC). This special event will explore the grassroots movement that ignited clinician activism for cannabis as medicine, leading to the formation of SCC. Through firsthand accounts, attendees will gain insight into the pivotal moments, challenges, and triumphs that shaped the medical cannabis landscape. We invite you all to come along with us for an inspiring journey into the untold history of SCC and its enduring impact on patient care, policy, and scientific progress.
The presentation will be followed by a Q&A discussion to foster a conversational atmosphere, allowing participants to share insights, ask questions, and engage in dialogue about the past and future of the medical cannabis movement.
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CannaConnect: July Members Call -- Integrative Approaches to Cannabis (Hosted by Dr. Patricia Frye)
2025-07-16 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Welcome to our members-only event series, CannaConnect!
You are invited to attend the July meeting, hosted by SCC Board Member Dr. Patricia Frye, for a conversational gathering to meet and network with other members. This meeting will focus on integrative approaches to optimize cannabis therapeutics. Please join to contribute your perspective, share updates with the group, and bring any questions that you would like addressed.
Each month of CannaConnect is hosted by a member of the SCC Board of Directors and will offer an interactive blend of networking, clinical case discussions, and the latest in cannabis news. You are invited to come connect with fellow SCC members, find or offer mentorship, share insights on clinical practices, and welcome new members to our thriving community.
Thank you for being part of the Society!
Register

2025 National Interdisciplinary Cannabis Symposium
2025-09-19 08:00 - 2025-09-21 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
2025 National Interdisciplinary Cannabis Symposium
9/19-21, 2025
University Denver Sturm College of Law
2255 E. Evans Ave. Denver, Colorado 80210
As of now, medical marijuana is legalized in 40 states, with an additional 24 states, along with D.C., Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and various Tribal nations, enacting laws permitting adult use of marijuana. Numerous other states are exploring legislation and referenda to legalize recreational marijuana in 2025.
These evolving legal shifts are profoundly influencing our legal system, families, and society at large. They present a dynamic and occasionally intricate terrain for a multitude of professions, including Law Enforcement, Judiciary, Legal Practitioners, Specialty Court Experts, Scientific Community, Drug and Alcohol Testing Sector, Academia, Cannabis Industry as well as Employment and Human Resource Associations & Organizations.
Our Symposium is a platform to bring together these diverse disciplines, each offering unique perspectives. Through education and collaboration, NICS, a 501C3, seeks to foster a comprehensive understanding of cannabis-related issues across disciplines.
Attendees can expect to engage in insightful discussions and networking opportunities, as the symposium aims to bridge gaps between different fields of study and the evolving cannabis industry. Participants will have the chance to learn from distinguished speakers and industry leaders, making it an essential event for anyone interested in the multifaceted aspects of cannabis education. We warmly invite you to join us and engage in this enriching event!
The proceeds generated from the Symposium will cover operational costs and serve as seed funding for future endeavors. Any surplus funds will be donated to 501(C)(3) organizations.
Through initiatives such as scholarships for law students (anyone interested please download the scholarship application here send an email to nicsstudentscholarship@gmail.com) and assistance with speaker travel expenses, we endeavor to foster accessibility.
Register

SCC 3rd Annual Medical Cannabis Conference
2025-10-24 13:00 - 2025-10-25 17:00 (America/Denver)
SCC 3rd Annual Medical Cannabis Conference
October 24 (1pm Mountain Time) – October 25 (5pm Mountain Time)
This year’s two-day event will bring together the brightest minds and leading experts across the medical cannabis industry for a two days of education, innovation, and collaboration. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, patient advocate, researcher, or industry leader, this event is designed to empower you with the latest insights, research, and best practices in medical cannabis.
What to Expect at MedCannCon25:

Keynote presentations from renowned medical cannabis experts
Panel discussions on cutting-edge research, patient care, and industry trends
Networking opportunities with professionals and advocates in the field
Exhibitors from across the industry
And more!

Details
Where: Tivoli Turnhall at Auraria Campus (Denver, CO)
When: October 24-25, 2025
Registration Now Open!
Stay tuned for early bird discounts and exclusive opportunities to secure your spot at this premier event.
We can’t wait to see you in Denver for what promises to be our most impactful MedCannCon yet! Together, we can continue to advance education, advocacy, and access in the medical cannabis community.
Register

A Century of Advocacy & Care: Experts Respond to Federal Hemp THC Limits
2025-12-18 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
Experts Discuss New Regulatory Pathways
Three of the nation’s leading cannabis advocacy and patient-care organizations—the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML, founded 1970), the Society of Cannabis Clinicians (SCC, founded 1999), and the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP, founded 1995)—are coming together for a timely public webinar in response to recent federal changes impacting hemp-derived THC. With over a century of combined experience advancing sensible cannabis policy, patient protections, and evidence-informed clinical care, this panel will offer a clear, grounded conversation about what’s changing, what it means, and what comes next.
Each organization will share a concise 10–15 minute recap of key highlights and takeaways from their recent briefings and community updates, followed by a moderated Q&A panel where participants can ask questions and hear multiple perspectives in one place.
Attendees can expect:

Plain-language context on the federal hemp THC limits and their significance.
Practical implications for patient access, product availability, safety, and counseling.
Advocacy priorities and consumer-facing guidance from each organization.
A collaborative, solutions-oriented discussion to guide collective action in 2026.
Join us for an informed, community-centered conversation that reflects the strength of our diversity—different angles, complementary expertise, and a shared commitment to responsible policy and patient care.

Register

Rooted in Evidence: SCC’s Holiday Research Showcase
2025-12-18 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
Join the Society of Cannabis Clinicians for a special end-of-year webinar and festive social gathering—ugly Christmas sweaters encouraged.
We’ll be unveiling our latest project, which tackles one of the biggest misunderstandings in modern medicine: Rooted in Evidence: Cannabis, Pharmaceuticals, and the Case for Reform.
This session breaks down why botanical, whole-plant therapeutics fundamentally don’t fit into the FDA’s traditional pharmaceutical pathway, how this mismatch has shaped policy and clinical access, and why the limitations of the pharma framework do not diminish the legitimacy, efficacy, or scientific rigor of cannabis medicine.
You’ll learn:
How the unique complexity of whole-plant cannabis challenges single-compound pharmaceutical standards
Why the FDA drug-development pathway is structurally incompatible with multi-molecule botanicals
What this means for research, evidence generation, clinical practice, and patient access
How SCC’s new project provides a roadmap for responsible clinical integration outside the pharmaceutical paradigm
After the presentation, stay for our virtual Ugly Christmas Sweater Social where clinicians, researchers, and advocates can connect, share insights, and celebrate the close of another transformational year in cannabis medicine.
Knowledge, community, and questionable holiday fashion—all in one event.
*Open to SCC members and the broader medical cannabis community.*
Register

January Journal Club - A Puff Before a Pour: Dose-Dependent Effects of Cannabis on Drinking (Host: Jahan Marcu @ Cerium)
2026-01-06 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
A Puff Before a Pour: Dose-Dependent Effects of Cannabis on Drinking
Event Description:
This month’s journal club will examine a landmark randomized controlled crossover trial exploring how smoked cannabis affects alcohol craving and consumption under controlled laboratory conditions. With the rise of THC beverages, “Cali sober” trends, and increasing co-use of cannabis and alcohol, this study provides some of the strongest causal evidence to date on whether THC increases or decreases drinking. We will review the study’s design, outcomes, and implications for clinical practice, harm-reduction counseling, and public health messaging.
Key takeaway: Smoking cannabis with THC (3.1% and 7.2%) significantly reduced alcohol consumption by 19–27% compared to placebo, with nuanced effects on craving and urge.
Featured Article:
Metrik J, Aston ER, Gunn RL, Swift R, MacKillop J, Kahler CW.
Acute Effects of Cannabis on Alcohol Craving and Consumption: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial. American Journal of Psychiatry. 2025; XX:1–9.
DOI: TBA.
Speakers:
Phil Molloy, MD – Clinical education expert
Teresa Simon, MPH – Public health epidemiologist
Len Kamen, MD – Clinical pain specialist
Jahan Marcu, PhD – Cannabis researcher
Register

SCC CannaConnect Roundtable: Patient-Reported Outcomes (January)
2026-01-08 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
Welcome to our members-only monthly event series, CannaConnect Roundtable!
This month is hosted by E.R.I.C. Cancer Playbook, powered by Whole Health Oncology Institute on the topic of patient-reported outcomes.
Patient-reported outcomes (PROs)—what patients tell us about their symptoms, function, and quality of life—are transforming how we evaluate cancer care and integrative therapies, including medical cannabis. PROs can capture real-world benefits and harms that often don’t show up in traditional clinician-reported measures or survival endpoints, and they are increasingly used alongside randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to guide care.
This interactive discussion hour is designed for clinicians, researchers, and patient advocates who want to use patient voice and real-world data to inform safer, more effective, and more person-centered cannabis care in oncology.
Each month of CannaConnect is hosted by a member of the SCC and will offer an interactive blend of networking, clinical case discussions, and the latest in cannabis news. You are invited to come connect with fellow SCC members, find or offer mentorship, share insights on clinical practices, and welcome new members to our thriving community.
Thank you for being part of the Society!
Register

SCC Quarterly Meeting: Leveraging Social Science for Social Progress on Psychedelics (Abel Gustafson, PhD & Matt Goldberg, PhD)
2026-03-04 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
Psychedelic therapies are becoming more visible in both clinical research and public discourse, and patients often look to cannabis clinicians for trustworthy, evidence-based insights. While cannabis and psychedelics are distinct modalities, they share overlapping patient populations, therapeutic goals, and sociopolitical challenges. As these treatments gain momentum, clinicians must be prepared to discuss them responsibly, dispel common myths, and stay informed about emerging evidence. In alignment with the SCC’s mission to share clinical knowledge and promote best practices in cannabinoid medicine, this session offers essential context to help clinicians navigate this rapidly evolving landscape.
Description:
There has been a significant resurgence in clinical and public interest in the ability of psychedelics to treat mental illness and generate meaningful personal experiences. However, there are still formidable barriers in public perception that could thwart progress in policy, research, and therapeutic uses. These barriers include people’s beliefs and (mis)understanding of psychedelics, persistent myths about them, and a lack of understanding of their uses and benefits. XandY, an independent research and strategy firm, conducted a nationally-representative study of the US public to understand how Americans think about psychedelics and which policies they support regarding their use. In this presentation, XandY co-founders will present those findings and discuss strategies for designing communication efforts that can cultivate public support for psychedelic research, therapies, and decriminalization in the United States.
Bios:
Matthew Goldberg, Ph.D.
Dr. Matthew Goldberg is one of the world’s leading scientific experts on persuasion, human behavior, and public opinion. He has developed custom research insights for tech companies, media companies, political figures, and nonprofits, and has published dozens of peer-reviewed scientific studies. He earned his Ph.D. in Social Psychology and is a faculty research scientist at Yale University.
Abel Gustafson, Ph.D.
Dr. Abel Gustafson is one of the world’s leading scientific experts on social psychology and communication strategy. He has provided research solutions and strategic consulting for multi-national corporations, tech startups, media networks, political figures, and NGOs, and has published dozens of peer-reviewed scientific studies. After earning his Ph.D., he joined Yale University to conduct research on communication strategies related to science, sustainability, and emerging tech. He is a professor of public relations at the University of Cincinnati.
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SCC Quarterly Meeting: Navigating Integrative Cancer Care: Cannabis, Psychedelics & Supportive Therapies (Stacy D’Andre, MD, Mayo Clinic)
2026-06-24 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
About
Join us for an insightful presentation by Dr. Stacy D’Andre, a board‐certified oncologist at Mayo Clinic with a dedicated focus on integrative oncology, including the safe and evidence‐informed use of medical cannabis and medicinal mushrooms.
In this session, Dr. D’Andre will:

Provide an update on her recent research efforts in medical cannabis for oncology‐related symptom management—such as her pilot randomized placebo‐controlled trial of topical cannabidiol for chemotherapy‐induced neuropathy.
Explore emerging work and considerations around psychedelic therapies in the context of cancer care and supportive medicine—highlighting the overlap in patient populations, clinical questions, and integrative care frameworks.
Discuss the practical implications for clinicians: how to address patient inquiries about cannabis or psychedelic‐adjunctive therapies, integrate conversations into care plans, evaluate the growing body of evidence, and incorporate best practices in an evolving regulatory and clinical landscape.

Register

SCC Quarterly Meeting: Emerging Insights from Alzheimer’s Research (Duncan Mackie, PhD)
2026-09-02 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
﻿About
Speaker:
Duncan Mackie, PhD, Director of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, MedPharm Holdings
Event Description:
Alzheimer’s disease remains one of the most challenging neurodegenerative conditions to treat, and interest is growing in how cannabinoids might modulate key pathways involved in its progression. MedPharm Holdings, a Denver-based cannabis research and formulation development company, has focused its R&D program on neuropharmacology—particularly Alzheimer’s disease and dementia—leveraging one of Colorado’s first cannabis research licenses and a federal Schedule I research license to systematically study cannabis-derived compounds.
In this presentation, Dr. Duncan Mackie will share emerging findings from his ongoing work conducted in collaboration with academic partners through Colorado State University’s Institute of Cannabis Research. This project investigates how specific phytocannabinoids may influence Alzheimer’s-related mechanisms, with an emphasis on neuroinflammation, neuronal health, and potential disease-modifying pathways.
Bio:
Dr. Duncan I. Mackie is the Director of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics at Bud & Mary’s, where he leads innovative research in drug discovery, cellular and molecular biology, and G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) pharmacology to explore the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids. His work focuses on their interactions with the endocannabinoid system, with the goal of identifying novel drug targets and developing new treatments for complex diseases. He is one of only a small number of investigators in the United States to hold a Federal DEA Schedule I Researcher license to study cannabis and cannabinoids, which uniquely positions his laboratory to advance translational research in this rapidly evolving field.
A recognized leader in cannabis research, Dr. Mackie has established a rigorous, externally funded research program focused on the role of the endocannabinoid system in modulating immune function during the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. His wide-ranging research interests span all areas of cannabis and cannabinoid research, from development of analytical and regulatory testing methods, investigations into label compliance and quality standards, cellular and mechanistic studies of cannabinoid signaling, creation of biosensors and high-throughput pharmacology assays, and the design of advanced preclinical models of neuroinflammation. He is also actively involved in clinical translation research, contributing to FDA-approved clinical trials.
Dr. Mackie has published in leading journals including the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and Journal of Experimental Medicine, and he is an inventor on multiple patents arising from his discoveries. He is a sought-after speaker and lecturer on cannabis and science-related topics at various conferences and events, and he mentors students and trainees through his role as a Graduate Faculty member in the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Additionally, he is the Chair of the Cannabis Program Advisory Board at the Community College of Denver and as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Cannabis Research, reflecting his dedication to advancing cannabis science through both education and scholarly publishing.
He earned his B.S. in Mathematics from the University of the Cumberlands and his Ph.D. in Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry from the Pharmaceutical Sciences and Experimental Therapeutics Department at the University of Iowa School of Pharmacy and completed his postdoctoral research in the Department of Cellular Biology and Physiology at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.
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