Urology on the Beach 2026 brings new honors, debates, and innovation

In this video, Mark L. Gonzalgo, MD, PhD, MBA, a professor and chair of urology at the University of Miami and executive director of Perioperative Surgical Services at the University of Miami Health System, highlights what makes the 2026 Urology on the Beach meeting a distinctive and highly anticipated event.

A major milestone for the program is the introduction of the inaugural Desai Sethi Lifetime Achievement in Urology Award, which will honor Ian Thompson Jr, MD, for his profound contributions to prostate cancer research, education, leadership, and mentorship in urology. Gonzalgo emphasizes that the award is designed not only to recognize excellence, but also to celebrate legacy and the importance of mentorship within the field.

Several new educational initiatives further distinguish the 2026 program. These include highly curated lunchtime sessions focused on benign urology and urologic oncology, intentionally structured as smaller, more intimate discussions that promote meaningful subspecialty dialogue around real-world clinical challenges. Another notable addition is a session led by editors from the Journal of Urology and AUA News, offering practical guidance on translating research into successful publications—an area of strong interest for both trainees and faculty. The program will also spotlight a new cohort of “rising star” residents, providing a platform for emerging voices and innovative research. Continuing a conference hallmark, the agenda will feature expanded debates on current controversies in urologic oncology, addressing the pressing clinical questions clinicians face today.

Beyond the new features, attendees can expect a focused, high-yield scientific program covering both benign and oncologic disease, with updates on emerging technologies, novel therapeutics, and practice-changing data. Gonzalgo stresses that the meeting’s strength lies in contextualizing cutting-edge science for immediate clinical application across academic, community, and trainee audiences.

Outside the lecture hall, Urology on the Beach offers exceptional networking in a relaxed, collegial environment, particularly valuable for residents and fellows. Held in Miami Beach over a long weekend, the meeting combines professional growth with wellness, recreation, CME opportunities, and an inviting setting that encourages attendees to recharge and return year after year.