Efforts to improve enrollment and representation in clinical trials must go beyond recruitment tactics to address systemic barriers, mistrust, and lack of awareness.

This session presents real-world case studies from community engagement efforts undertaken from 2023 to 2026 in dozens of cities across the U.S., showcasing how community-centered partnerships can drive meaningful and lasting engagement and measurable impact.

The session draws on mobile exhibits and community event engagements held, for example, at farmers and food markets, historically black colleges and universities, cultural festivals, and health fairs. These initiatives fostered dialogue and sustained interest, with impact metrics revealing significant increases in understanding of and willingness to participate in clinical research.

One speaker from a nonprofit organization and two research sponsor representatives will share testimonials from stakeholders and insights on designing and executing inclusive engagement strategies, co-developing culturally responsive materials, and collecting operational key performance indicators to inform future engagement.

CEU: 1.0 ACRP

Speaker:

• Behtash Bahador, Senior Director, Community Engagement & Partnerships, Center for Information and Study on Clinical Research Participation, Inc. CISCRP