Building Stronger Responses for Children: 2026 Seaside Symposium Recap
More than 400 professionals convened at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center from May 26–29 for the 3rd Annual Symposium on Child Abuse & Neglect for the Carolinas. Hosted by the South Carolina Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers (SCNCAC) in collaboration with Children’s Advocacy Centers of North Carolina (CACNC), the Seaside Symposium continues to advance its mission of strengthening coordinated, multidisciplinary responses to child abuse.
Designed as a three-day professional development experience for Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) and their Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) partners, the event brought together 386 attendees and 42 presenters across 47 sessions. Topics spanned investigation, medical evaluation, victim advocacy, mental health services, legal processes, and trauma-informed practice—all grounded in the evidence-based CAC model.
Across Disciplines and States
Participants represented a wide range of MDT roles, including victim advocates, forensic interviewers, mental health clinicians, child protective services, law enforcement, prosecutors, medical professionals, and CAC leadership. While the focus remained on the Carolinas, attendees also joined from 16 additional states, underscoring the symposium’s expanding regional reach and influence.
Exhibitors and Resources
The exhibit hall featured 19 representatives from organizations showcasing tools, technologies, and services designed to support professionals in the field. Exhibitors included VerbatUm, iRecord, the SC Office of the Attorney General, and Made for Freedom, among others—offering attendees valuable opportunities to explore resources and strengthen professional connections.
Keynote: Stepping Into Purpose When the World Needs You Most
The symposium opened with a compelling keynote from Irish Burch, Principal of Irish Burch Company. The presentation invited attendees to reflect on purpose, resilience, and leadership amid increasing demands and constant change. Emphasis was placed on leading with intention, recognizing the value of one’s unique perspective, and stepping confidently into moments of challenge and opportunity.
Participants left feeling re-energized and grounded in their mission, with one attendee sharing:
“She created and ignited the motivation I needed to continue doing what I do. I appreciated her first-hand experience, insight and push to do this work.”
Standout Sessions Highlight Learning and Impact
Several sessions stood out for strong engagement and positive feedback:
- “When the Star(r)s Align” – Marissa Kuzbyt, JD (Davidson/Davie District Attorney’s Office)
This case-based session offered insight into prosecutorial expectations and reinforced the importance of cross-agency collaboration in strengthening case outcomes.
“Gut-wrenching story that was delivered with incredible poise. The presenter is innovative, life-changing, and crucial to this work. It was an honor to hear this session.”
- “The Battle Within: Why Your Healing Matters in Advocacy” – Aaliyah Simon (SCNCAC)
Participants explored how unaddressed trauma and emotional triggers can affect advocacy work, while learning strategies for boundary-setting, reflection, and long-term resilience.
“This was an amazing presentation! The presenter touched on something some of us don’t want to admit, but I think it’s critical for the work we do!”
- “Medical Diagnosis of Torture” – Deana Lashley, DO (MUSC Children’s Health at Dorchester Children’s Center) & Leah Stephens (Mission Children’s Hospital)
Through a real case example, attendees examined how multidisciplinary findings contribute to diagnosing torture, regardless of legal definitions across states.
“Having both medical and interviewer perspectives in the presentation was incredible and very helpful in several current cases!”
- “Leadership That Performs Under Pressure” – Irish Burch
This session provided practical tools for decision-making, communication, and composure in high-pressure environments.
“Session was very informative and definitely highlighted some things that I need to evaluate as it relates to my leadership style.”
Special Recognition of Sponsors
The success of this year’s symposium was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors. Sincere appreciation is extended to:
Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Their commitment to supporting professionals who serve children and families impacted by abuse played a vital role in the event’s success.
Renewed Purpose
This year’s symposium reinforced the dedication of CACs and MDT partners to improving responses to child abuse through collaboration, innovation, and compassionate practice. Participants left with renewed energy and practical strategies to bring back to their communities.
Attendees reflected on the experience:
“It was excellent! I learned something from each session and was already able to utilize a skill I just learned in an investigation”
“This is my second year attending and I always walk out with new information and inspired to continue my work for the kids we serve. Thank you for putting this together and for helping us grow as professionals in our field.”
“The knowledge I gain from Seaside is unmeasured. I look forward to this training all year long and can’t wait for future Symposiums.”
“This was the first year I have attended. I think the venue itself was excellent. The staff were friendly and helpful. I did learn some skills which I intend to implement within my CAC.”
“I have been 3 times now and I have loved it every time. It gives my spirits a boost each year and reminds me why I love this work.”
The South Carolina Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers thanks all of the professionals who attended the 2026 Seaside Symposium. Your dedication, engagement, and partnership are greatly appreciated, and we look forward to continuing this important work together at future events.
