Koopmans Lecture 2026 - Featuring Dr. David E. Victorson

Join us for the 2026 Koopmans Lecture, a special event held periodically to advance conversations in psychosocial oncology and supportive cancer care.

This year’s lecture features Dr. David E. Victorson, a licensed psychologist, Professor of Medical Social Sciences at Northwestern University, and Director of the Flourishing in Society and Health Research Lab. He also serves as Director of Research at the Osher Center for Integrative Health and leads Integrative Oncology Research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Dr. Victorson’s work explores how mindfulness-based emotion regulation, social connection, engagement with nature, and positive health behaviours can support well-being and “flourishing” in individuals and communities. Beyond his academic work, he is also co-founder and volunteer executive director of True North Treks, a nonprofit that supports teens, young adults, and caregivers affected by cancer through nature-based experiences focused on connection, reflection, and healing.

In this presentation, Dr. Victorson will explore the healing power of nature—bridging research and real-world experience. Drawing on both his research and community work, he will examine how connection with the natural world can support health, resilience, and flourishing for individuals affected by cancer.

The evening will be hosted by David Spence, a familiar and trusted voice in Calgary. As Master of Ceremonies, David will also share his personal experience with cancer and his deep connection to nature, offering a meaningful local perspective that complements the themes of the lecture. After the lecture stick around and mingle! We will have a tea/coffee station set up with some snacks!

The Libin Theatre is located on the ground floor of the Health Sciences Centre building at Foothills Medical Centre. The main entrance to the building is directly across from the North Parkade. Once inside, signage will help guide you to the lecture theatre. A map will be provided to assist with wayfinding.

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Host or Publisher University of Calgary