The 2026 BIO Conference is tentatively scheduled for May 28–29 in New York City, and the Conference Committee—co-chaired by Jared Stearns—invites members to submit panel proposals for consideration.

The Committee welcomes proposals in three broad categories:

• Basics – guidance for beginning biographers
• Craft – exploring the art and technique of biography
• Issues, Business, Publishing & Innovations – topics of broad professional interest

The conference theme will be announced soon; however, proposals on any relevant topics are encouraged. For inspiration, you may wish to review programs from past BIO Conferences.

To submit a proposal, please fill out this Google Form with the following:

• A panel title
• Your name and contact information
• A description of the panel (100–150 words)
• A list of potential panelists and a moderator (panelists should be published biographers or recognized experts, and the group should reflect a diversity of voices; preliminary names only are fine)

Please note: not all proposals will be accepted. The Program Committee may modify selected proposals to create a balanced and engaging conference.

Important dates:

• Proposal deadline: October 1, 2025
• Notification of decisions by: December 1, 2025

Panelists and moderators will receive complimentary registration for the conference. Travel and lodging expenses, however, are not covered.

Questions? Please contact Jared Stearns.

Thank you for helping us shape another dynamic BIO Conference—we look forward to your ideas!