Livingston, NJ, May 11, 2026 – In recognition of Celiac Awareness Month, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC), an RWJBarnabas Health facility, will host a Celiac Awareness Month Symposium on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. The hybrid event, presented by the Kogan Celiac Center at RWJBarnabas Health, will focus on advancing awareness, care and community for those impacted by celiac disease.
“Celiac disease is often misunderstood, and education is key to helping patients successfully manage their condition,” said David Pineles, MD, Gastroenterologist and Medical Director of the Kogan Celiac Center. “This symposium provides an opportunity to share evidence-based guidance while empowering patients and families.”
The program will feature nationally recognized advocate, Alice Bast, Founder and Executive Director of Beyond Celiac, along with clinical experts from RWJBarnabas Health. The presentations will cover the science of celiac disease, practical approaches to maintain a gluten-free diet, the emotional aspects of living with the condition, and considerations for pediatric patients.
RWJBarnabas Health is also home to the Pediatric Celiac Disease Center, part of the Children’s Health network, recognized as a Celiac Disease Unit of Excellence by the Society for the Study of Celiac Disease, the only center with this designation in New Jersey and one of 11 in the United States.
“We are committed to providing cutting-edge, comprehensive care that supports the unique needs of children with celiac disease and their families” adds Ashwin Agrawal, DO, MA, MBA, FAAP, Pediatric Gastroenterologist and Medical Director of the Pediatric Celiac Disease Center, part of the Children’s Health network of RWJBarnabas Health. “Education and support are key to helping young patients successfully navigate a gluten-free lifestyle.”
Designed for patients, caregivers, and community members, the symposium will offer valuable education and meaningful opportunities for connection. Attendees will be able to engage with experts, connect with others, explore available resources, and enjoy gluten-free food samples from Modern Bread & Bagel.
“Adopting a gluten-free lifestyle can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, it becomes both manageable and sustainable,” says Michelle Pasia, MPH, RDN, Clinical Coordinator at the Kogan Celiac Center. “We aim to provide practical, real-life strategies patients can use every day.”
This event will be held in person at the RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center and will also be available virtually. Registration is required by May 4, 2026. To register, visit rwjbh.org/events and search by event name.
About The Kogan Celiac Center at RWJBarnabas Health
As the first celiac center in New Jersey, The Kogan Celiac Center at RWJBarnabas Health offers extensive education and support for adults and children. The Center is dedicated to providing expert services that include early assessment and treatment, education and support to improve the health and well-being of those who live with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Education and support group programs are designed to help participants share and learn how to navigate the gluten-free world through conversation, recipes, tip exchanges and educational presentations. Gluten free is always a family issue so feel free to invite your family members. Learn More
The Children’s Health network of RWJBarnabas Health also offers the Pediatric Celiac Disease Center dedicated to providing expert care, education and support for children with celiac disease and their families. The center is one of only eleven in the United States recognized by the Society for the Study of Celiac Disease for its commitment and excellence in the care of children with celiac disease.