Leland Graves Memorial Diabetes Symposium: Optimizing Diabetes Care Across Kansas
SAVE THE DATE!
2027 Leland Graves Memorial Diabetes Symposium:
Optimizing Diabetes Care Across Kansas
Sponsored by Cray Diabetes Self-Management Center
April 30, 2027
Double Tree Hilton, Overland Park, KS
This program strengthens participants’ knowledge and practical skills in diabetes management, with a focus on emerging technologies, evidence-based therapeutic strategies and lifestyle centered care. Learners will refine their ability to select and optimize pharmacologic and supportive interventions while gaining tools to enhance the reach, sustainability and impact of diabetes management and prevention across diverse communities.
Registration Fee - $115
EARLY BIRD Registration Fee - $90 (until January 15, 2027)
Target Audience
Physicians, Advanced Practice Providers, Registered Nurses, Pharmacists, Social Workers, Dietitians, Diabetes Educators
Keynote Speaker:
Irl Hirsch, MD
Dr. Hirsch earned his medical degree from the University of Missouri in 1984, completed internal medicine residency training in Miami, and pursued a research fellowship at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.
His career has focused on improving insulin therapy and advancing diabetes technology for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. He has contributed to major clinical research studies, including DCCT, ACCORD, STAR-1, the JDRF Sensor Trial, SEARCH, ORIGIN, ADAG, and FLAT-SUGAR.
Dr. Hirsch has authored more than 200 research papers, numerous book chapters, and six books for patients and physicians. He is a former chair of the American Diabetes Association’s Professional Practice Committee, former editor-in-chief of two ADA journals, and a section editor for UpToDate. He has received the ADA’s Josiah K. Lilly Sr. Distinguished Service Award and was elected a Master of the American College of Physicians.
In Memory of Leland Graves III, M.D.
This symposium is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Leland Graves III, a visionary leader, brilliant physician, and dedicated mentor whose profound impact on The University of Kansas Health System and the field of endocrinology will never be forgotten.
Dr. Graves served as Professor of Medicine, Division Director of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Clinical Pharmacology, and Chief of Staff at The University of Kansas Health System. He was a guiding force in shaping the endocrine division, elevating patient care, and mentoring countless physicians. His leadership was defined by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
A gifted clinician and educator, Dr. Graves taught by example, instilling in others the values of curiosity, integrity, and leadership. His dedication to patients, pride in this institution, and relentless pursuit of medical excellence inspired all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
As this symposium advances the future of diabetes care, we honor Dr. Graves’ legacy by continuing his mission—to lead with compassion, to teach with purpose, and to serve with unwavering dedication. His influence will remain a guiding light in our work, our institution, and our community for years to come.