Sonography is evolving rapidly, and with that evolution comes complexity. Today’s sonographers navigate a landscape shaped by rising patient expectations, workforce shortages, and expanding clinical protocols. They face challenges that go beyond technical skill, including the need for clear communication, professional identity, wellbeing, and recognition in an increasingly multidisciplinary environment. At the ASA Arena, we will explore the human and professional dimensions of sonography. From the power of words in patient care to the emotional toll of burnout, from the erosion of role clarity to the opportunities offered by advanced practice, these sessions tackle the issues that matter most to sonographers. Join us for thought-provoking discussions on communication, advocacy, resilience, and the future of the profession. Together, we will examine how sonographers can adapt, lead, and thrive in a changing healthcare system.

Mrs Alison White AFASA | Griffith University I am an accredited medical sonographer (cardiac) with over 25 years of clinical experience. I am an Associate Fellow of the ASA, a Fellow of the ASE, a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a Senior Lecturer and Program Director at Griffith University. Part of my current teaching role, is teaching the next generations of clinical physiologists specialising in cardiac science, respiratory science, sleep science and clinical neurophysiology. I have published textbook chapters and journal articles on reflective practice, communication skills, leadership skills, cardiac sonography and clinical cases. I was a Lead Coach with the Manager as Coach program at Griffith University 2018-2024, focusing at the individual level on building self-awareness of communication skills, with the aim of fostering at a team level through strengths based communication, workplace cultures of effective, respectful, empathetic and growth-orientated colleagues. , BSc MSc DMU (cardiac) AMS AFASA FASE SFHEA.

Mrs Jane Wardle | CQUniversity Jane is a senior lecturer at CQUniversity. Jane has worked in the tertiary sector for ten years, and is dedicated to advancing the education and practice of sonography, shaping the next generation of skilled professionals in this critical healthcare domain. Her academic career is marked by a deep commitment to the integration of cutting-edge research with practical application. Jane's work extends beyond traditional educational methods, embracing innovative approaches that enhance learning and clinical competency. This dedication to educational excellence is underscored by her current studies in Educational Neuroscience, a field she finds deeply fascinating. Her research in this area focuses on understanding how the brain learns and applying these insights to improve teaching pedagogy and outcomes in medical education.

Ms Gail Boyer | Sonographer and Board Chair Sonography Canada Gail is an experienced Ultrasound Technologist with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital & health care industry. Skilled in Healthcare Management, Healthcare, Medical Imaging, Patient Safety, and Hospitals. She is a strong healthcare services professional and graduated from University of Alberta.

Dr Narelle Kennedy | Nepean Hospital Narelle is a Sonographer with more than 25 years of clinical experience, specialising in Obstetric and Gynaecological ultrasound. She has worked across both public and private sectors and is currently the Chief Sonographer at Nepean Hospital. She is affiliated with the University of Sydney and completed her PhD in 2018 on obesity in pregnancy. Narelle continues to publish and contributes to multiple ongoing research projects. Volunteering her time to the sonography profession as a regular presenter and advisor, serves on the ASA Board and is a member of the editorial board for Sonography. She is a strong advocate for the profession and is committed to sharing her knowledge and research expertise with current and future sonographers.

Ms Mary Rodriguez | Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography Mary serves as the CEO of the SDMS and holds the position of ex-officio Officer and Director on the SDMS Board of Directors. Joining the SDMS staff in 1999, she has held various staff positions within the association, accumulating over 20 years of healthcare industry association management experience, with a decade dedicated to executive leadership. Her tenure at the SDMS involved pivotal roles in formulating and implementing Society policies, overseeing daily organizational operations, ensuring seamless functioning of Society programs, and effectively managing staff, resulting in optimized productivity and successful program outcomes.