Alabama State Association of
Forensic Sciences Annual Meeting

May 26th - 29th, 2026
The Lodge at Lake Guntersville State Park

President's Closing Message – Celebrating 40 Years of ASAFS

As we conclude the 2026 Alabama State Association of Forensic Sciences Conference, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who helped make this year's event an overwhelming success. This conference was particularly special as we celebrated 40 years of collaboration between ASAFS and the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences. For four decades, ASAFS has provided opportunities for education, professional development, networking, and the exchange of ideas among forensic science professionals. This year's conference demonstrated that our commitment to those principles remains as strong as ever.

Hosted at the beautiful Lake Guntersville Lodge, our "Summer Camp" themed conference brought together forensic scientists, students, researchers, educators, and industry partners from across the region. Throughout the week, attendees participated in outstanding educational sessions, meaningful discussions, and numerous opportunities to reconnect with colleagues and build new professional relationships.

One of the highlights of the conference was undoubtedly the Opening Reception featuring the Outrageous Games. The event exceeded all expectations and quickly became a favorite topic of conversation throughout the week. Watching teams work together, compete, and share plenty of laughs perfectly captured the spirit of ASAFS and reminded us that some of the strongest professional connections are built outside the classroom.

We were also privileged to welcome Dr. Giovanna Vidoli as our keynote speaker. Her engaging presentation provided valuable insight into the evolving field of forensic anthropology while reminding us of the profound impact forensic science has on investigations and the families we serve. We are grateful for her willingness to share her expertise and experiences with our attendees.

A conference of this caliber would not be possible without the support of our sponsors and vendors. Their continued partnership allows ASAFS to provide quality training opportunities and educational experiences year after year. We appreciate their contributions, their participation in our vendor events, and their commitment to advancing forensic science.

I would also like to recognize the outstanding staff of Lake Guntersville Lodge. Their hospitality, professionalism, and dedication throughout the conference week helped create an exceptional experience for our attendees. We are grateful for their efforts and for serving as the host venue for our 40th Anniversary Conference.

Finally, thank you to our presenters, volunteers, committee members, board members, and attendees. Your willingness to share knowledge, mentor colleagues, support educational programs, and contribute your time is what makes ASAFS successful. Every presentation, discussion, and interaction helped strengthen our forensic science community.

As we leave Lake Guntersville and return to our laboratories, agencies, and organizations, I encourage each of you to continue building on the connections and knowledge gained during this conference. Together, we will continue advancing forensic science and supporting the professionals who serve our communities every day.

Thank you for making ASAFS 2026 a memorable celebration of our past, present, and future. We look forward to seeing everyone next year in Gulf Shores for ASAFS 2027.


Justin E. Sanders


President, Alabama State Association of Forensic Sciences

Keynote Speaker

ASAFS 2026 Keynote Speaker

KeyNote Speaker

Dr. Giovanna Vidoli

Dr. Giovanna Vidoli is the Director of the Forensic Anthropology Center at the University of Tennessee and a Board-Certified Forensic Anthropologist. Previously, Dr. Vidoli served as a Research Professor at the Center and was Principal Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator on seven federally funded grants. Prior to joining the University of Tennessee in 2013, she served as Assistant Director for World Trade Center Operations (2004–2006) at the Office of Chief Medical Examiner, New York. Her current research focuses on comparing different modalities of burial search, including the use of Ground Penetrating Radar. Dr. Vidoli brings extensive operational experience, academic leadership, and research innovation to the field of forensic anthropology.

The Forensic Anthropology Center at the University of Tennessee (FAC) is a world-renowned leader in forensic anthropology research, training, and applied casework. Located at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, the Center is internationally recognized for advancing the scientific study of human skeletal biology in medico-legal contexts.

Founded in 1987 by pioneering forensic anthropologist Dr. William M. Bass, the Center is home to the Anthropological Research Facility—widely known as the original “Body Farm.” Through the ethical donation of human remains, researchers conduct groundbreaking studies on human decomposition, skeletal analysis, trauma interpretation, and postmortem interval estimation. This research has significantly enhanced the accuracy and reliability of forensic investigations worldwide.

With a global reputation for innovation and excellence, the Forensic Anthropology Center at the University of Tennessee continues to shape best practices in forensic science and remains a cornerstone institution in the advancement of forensic anthropology.

Event Schedule

ASAFS 2026 Conference Agenda

AGENDA

agenda

Event Venue

The Lodge at Lake Guntersville State Park

The Lodge at Lake Guntersville State Park

Lake Guntersville State Park rests along the banks of the Tennessee River in Northeast Alabama. Whether you are looking for a resort-style retreat or an outdoor adventure in the 6,000 acres of natural woodlands, Lake Guntersville State Park will satisfy all your needs. Among the many recreational offerings are an 18-hole championship golf course, the Screaming Eagle Zipline, a beach complex, an outdoor nature center, excellent fishing in Alabama's largest lake, 36 miles of hiking and biking trails, weekly guided hikes, and a day-use area.


When it comes to “elevated comfort and Southern hospitality,” there’s nothing else like The Lodge anywhere on the Southern Alabama Coast. We pride ourselves on providing every guest with an unparalleled experience — refined, yet warm and welcoming. The 350 room Lodge at Gulf State Park is a full-service resort with access to an array of amenities, activities and facilities.

Sponsors

Thank you for supporting us!

ASAFS 2026 Sponsorship Form   Vendor Attendee Registration Form

2026 ASAFS Sponsorship and Vendor Information

Would you like to become a sponsor for ASAFS 2026 Annual Conference? Submit your  2026 ASAFS Sponsorship application today.
Deadline to apply is April 15, 2026.

Sponsorships Include:

Platinum Sponsorship ($3,500):

  • Sponsored Event: Opening Night Event, Meritorious Service Awards Dinner, or Themed Dinner
  • Large priority signage at event (2 custom signs)
  • President's Toast and Sponsorship Acknowledgement at event
  • Website and Guidebook recognition of sponsorship
  • Sponsorship recognition of ASAFS social media
  • 25% discount on full conference registration for attendees
  • Table and chairs included

Gold Sponsorship ($2,000):

  • Sponsored Event: Lunch, Excursion, or Social Hour before Opening Dinner
  • Signage at event (1 sign)
  • Website and Guidebook recognition of sponsorship
  • Sponsorship recognition of ASAFS social media
  • 25% discount on full conference registration for attendees
  • Table and chairs included

Silver Sponsorship ($1,000):

  • Sponsored Event: Conference Break
  • Signage at event (1 sign)
  • Website and Guidebook recognition of sponsorship
  • Sponsorship recognition of ASAFS social media
  • 25% discount on full conference registration for attendees
  • Table and chairs included

Bronze Sponsorship ($500):

  • Vendor Expo Booth space only (Table and chairs included)
  • Website and Guidebook recognition of sponsorship
  • Sponsorship recognition of ASAFS social media

All sponsors will receive recognition for their contributions at the event and in our conference program.

 The Sponsorships do not include attendee registration. A separate form will be used for attendee registration.  Please click here for Vendor Attendee Registration.

Special thanks to our sponsors!

F.A.Q

ASAFS 2026 – What You Need to Know!

  • The conference will begin on Tuesday, May 26th and close on Friday, May 29th. ASAFS 2026 will be held at The Lodge at Lake Guntersville State Park in Guntersville, Alabama.

    The Vendor Booths will be open on May 27th and May 28th.

    THE LODGE AT LAKE GUNTERSVILLE STATE PARK
    1155 Lodge Dr.
    GUNTERSVILLE, AL 35976
    (800) 548-4553

  • Registration will be taking place on Tuesday, May 26th, from 1:00-4:00 PM at the hotel. If you are planning on arriving at a later date, please notify a member of the Vendor Committee of your arrival so we can ensure you receive all of your registration gear.

  • Tables may be set up on Tuesday, May 26th, from 1:00-5:00PM.

    Booths must be taken down on Thursday, May 28th, by 6:00PM. If this time conflicts with your excursion, please let us know.

    We will have volunteers around to help with any set up/take down needs.

  • Please address all packages to: The Lodge at Lake Guntersville State Park Attn: Alabama State Association for Forensic Sciences 1155 Lodge Dr. Guntersville, AL 35976

    Return packages will not be picked up from the Vendor Area. Please coordinate with Jessica Jackson, Vendor Chair, Michael Dugan, Vendor Vice Chair, or hotel staff to ensure your packages are returned.

  • The ASAFS agenda can be found on our website, ASAFS 2026 Annual Meeting, under the 2026 Annual Event. There will be scientific presentations, poster presentations, dress up nights, and our annual Fun Run!

See you in Lake Guntersville!