Dear MAFS Members,

Welcome to the 54th year of the Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists. As a forensic association we are committed to bringing experts together from all forensic disciplines as well as providing opportunities to learn the newest advances in forensic technologies. MAFS is one of the leading regional forensic associations in the country. Our membership is one of the largest of the regional associations and we host one of the best attended fall conferences every year. We also provide exceptional workshops and training in all forensic disciplines both virtually and in person.

I am honored to be your MAFS president for 2026. I bring to this position over twenty years of forensic science experience in DNA database, DNA casework and management. I have been working with MAFS for over ten years to host conferences throughout the Midwest. There was a point in my career where I felt burnt out and overwhelmed. Luckily for me, I was able to become a part of the MAFS family. This organization is amazing because of the individuals that make up its membership. I hope that you feel the same way and I encourage you to utilize our resources to network with other experts in the field of forensics. Together we can make each other better.

Forensic technology is always moving forward. Likewise, MAFS is already setting up learning opportunities. We have already scheduled our first webinar for April 22^nd of this year titled “From Bench to Boss: Transitioning Roles Within Your Organization”. We have our fall meeting scheduled for August 23^rd thru 28^th in Minneapolis, MN. In addition to that meeting we have already planned our 2027 meeting for August 30^th thru September 3^rd in Lexington, KY and 2028 meeting in Milwaukee, WI. Lastly, we have “MAFS Chats” coming this year within forensic sections. Some have already happened but more will come throughout the year so keep an eye out for those.

As your President I am committed to moving MAFS forward. Like the Presidents before me, I plan to maintain traditions and foster growth both professionally and personally. I may not be Davy who’s still in the navy but I plan to be part of MAFS for life!

Davey McCann

2026 MAFS President