2025 Annual Meeting
Where Literacy, Relationships, and Resilience Take Root
Oct. 24, 2025 | Verona
Epic Headquarters | 1979 Milky Way, Verona, WI 53593
Join us for an inspiring day of learning, connection, and action at the 2025 Reach Out and Read Wisconsin Annual Meeting. This year’s event brings together experts, practitioners, and community leaders to explore how early relationships and literacy shape lifelong health and success.
Whether you’re a healthcare provider, educator, or early childhood advocate, you’ll leave with practical tools, fresh insights, and renewed energy to support the children and families you serve.
2025 Annual Meeting Keynote Presenter
Dr. Kate Rosenblum, PhD, ABPP, IMH-E®
Dr. Kate Rosenblum, PhD, ABPP, IMH-E® is a clinical psychologist and Professor of Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and OB/Gyn at the University of Michigan, where she co-directs Zero to Thrive (www.zerotothrive.org), a program aimed at promoting the health and resilience of families from conception through early childhood through research, training, service, and community partnership. Dr. Rosenblum directs the UM Infancy and Early Childhood Psychiatry Clinic, and is one of the developers of the Strong Roots™ programs, including the newly developed Reading Roots Cafés that is being piloted in Michigan and Wisconsin. Her research focuses on prevention and intervention to promote protective factors and early relational health from pregnancy through early childhood.
BREAKDOWN OF SESSIONS
- Keynote: From Zero to Thrive!
Connections are the Roots of Literacy and Early Relational Health
Presented by Dr. Kate Rosenblum, PhD, ABPP, IMH-E®
Discover the science behind early relational health, literacy, and resilience—from conception through early childhood. Dr. Rosenblum will introduce the Strong Roots™ Protective Factors and the innovative Reading Roots Parent Café model, co-developed with families and providers. Learn how nature, relationships, and community can help children thrive—and take home free tools to support your work. - Early Autism Intervention, hosted by Penfield Children’s Center
Hosted by Penfield Children’s Center
Gain the skills to recognize early signs of autism and mental health challenges in young children. Explore how Early Pathways and First Connections promote emotional well-being and social development. - Early Brain Building and Literacy: Vroom for Caregivers
Hosted by CTSI
Learn how to turn everyday moments into brain-building opportunities using Vroom’s science-based tips. Discover strategies to support caregiver-child interactions, promote early literacy, and reduce disparities in underserved communities. - Sustaining Reach Out and Read
Funding Strategies Across Diverse Health Systems
Explore how Reach Out and Read sites across Wisconsin and beyond are securing sustainable funding. Learn from real-world examples and discover adaptable strategies to embed early literacy into your standard of care. - Mirrors, Windows, and Connections
Using Books to Strengthen Relationships and Early Literacy
Led by Dr. Dipesh Navsaria and Tessa Michaelson Schmidt, this session will help you choose books that reflect diverse identities and spark meaningful conversations. Hear from Mirrors & Windows scholarship recipients about the impact of diverse books in clinical and community settings. - Prescribing Literacy
Strengthening Early Childhood Development Through Clinic and Community
Discover how pediatric clinics can become hubs for literacy and community engagement. Learn about the Library Initiative and other models that align healthcare with early literacy promotion. - Support for Mothers
Understanding and Responding to Maternal Mental Health Needs in Pediatric Primary Care
Back by popular demand, Dr. Rosenblum will guide you through strategies to screen for and support maternal mental health. Learn how to connect families with resources and ensure mothers receive the care they need.
*Reach Out and Read National has applied to designate this live activity for a maximum of 3 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Why Attend?
- Learn from national experts and local innovators
- Gain practical tools and free resources to use immediately
- Connect with peers and partners across Wisconsin
- Be part of a movement that’s transforming early childhood development
Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your impact.
Register today and help us build a future where every child thrives.
Thank you to our sponsors!
