SDAHO’s 2026 Post Acute Partners in Care Conference is bringing exceptional talent to the stage — and we are especially proud to highlight the outstanding health care leaders who call South Dakota home.
Held March 31–April 1, 2026, at the Sioux Falls Convention Center, this year’s conference features a dynamic lineup of respected experts who understand firsthand the unique challenges and opportunities facing long-term care in the Rushmore State. It is truly an honor to showcase these dedicated professionals right here at home.
To Be or Not To Be, That is the Specialty Hospice and Palliative Care Certification Question
- Katie Huff, DNP, FNP-BC, ACHPN, Palliative Care Provider, Avera Medical Group Palliative Medicine DNP
- Aubrey Hensch, MSN, RN, CHPN, Clinical Manager, Sanford Health Ava’s House
- Bethany Scarson, LPN, Sanford Health Ava’s House
- Michele Snyders, MSW, CSW-PIP, APHSW-C, Hospice and Palliative Care Program Manager, SDAHO
- Carol Breitkreutz, PharmD, BCOP Pharmacist Avera McKennan Hospital
Ensuring Compliance and Quality: Nursing Home Surveyor Process, Role, and Training
- Rachel Luke, MS, RD, LN, Senior Health Facilities Surveyor, SD Department of Health, Office of Licensure & Certification
- Jennifer Maeschen, RN, Public Health Advisor, SD Department of Health, Office of Licensure & Certification
South Dakota Department of Health Panel
- Shelly Walstead, RN, Public Health Advisor, South Dakota Department of Health
- Maurine Ford, RN, Public Health Advisor, SD Department of Health
- Carrie Christopherson, RN, Public Health Advisor and Western Regional Manager, SD Department of Health
From Visitor to Key Partner: Elevating Medical Leadership in Long-Term Care
Victoria Walker, MD, FAAFP, CMD, Medical and Clinical Officer, Senior Care, Avel eCare
Rockin’ the Future of Antibiotic Stewardship: Project STAMP Kickoff
Cheri Fast, RN, Healthcare Associated Infection Program Manager, SD Department of Health
Enhancing the Dining Experience in Long-Term Care
Scott Eisenbeisz, CEO/Administrator, Bethesda Home of Aberdeen
Creative Aging Approaches for Care Teams
Ariadne Albright, Director, Creative Care, LLC
Intentional Speaking: Communicating with Purpose and Impact
Danielle Pierotti, PhD, RN, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Mount Marty University
It’s Never Too Late, Until It Is – Creating Advance Directives
- Michele Snyders, MSW, CSW-PIP, APHSW-C, Hospice and Palliative Care Program Manager, SDAHO
- Amanda Sedlacek, DO, MSA, FACOI, FAAHPM, Palliative Care Physician, Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C.
- Cameo Anders, JD, MA, CAP®, CTFA, AVP Trust Officer, Plains Commerce Bank
Long Term Care Medicaid Eligibility & Assisted Living Tiers
- Caitlin Clarey, HCBS Program Manager, SD Department of Human Services
- Kristin McNeely, Medicaid Eligibility Program Specialist, SD Department of Social Services
The Role of Guardians in Protecting Rights and Promoting Well-Being
Amy Hansen, Executive Director, Dakota Guardianship
Bringing Palliative Care to Long-Term Care
Marin Schaefer, APRN-CNP, Sanford Health
We are honored to showcase these exceptional experts right here at home.
Join us for two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration — and don’t forget to reserve your lodging early, as the room block fills quickly.
Learn more and register today, www.sdaho.org
