Day 1 Delivers Big at the 2026 Rural Health Leaders Conference
If Day 1 of the 2026 Rural Health Leaders Conference is any indication, this year’s event is going to be unforgettable.
Join the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations June 24–25, 2026, at the Ramkota Hotel & Convention Center in Pierre for a conference focused on innovation, leadership, and the future of rural health care. As part of SDAHO’s 100th Anniversary celebration, this year’s theme — A Century Strong: Charting the Next Frontier of Rural Health — sets the stage for two ½ days of meaningful education and connection.
Day 1 alone features an impressive lineup of educational sessions designed specifically for today’s rural health leaders.
The conference keynote, The Eclipse Mindset: How to Prepare for the Moments That Change Everything, features world-renowned astrophotographer Jon Carmichael. Through breathtaking visuals and inspiring storytelling, Carmichael challenges attendees to rethink limitations, embrace innovation, and lead with resilience during times of change.
Mary Sand, with Sand Consulting will present: Strategy-Execution Gap: Why Rural Health Needs Different Approaches. This session offers practical strategies for turning big-picture plans into real-world actions, even amid workforce shortages, financial pressures, and competing priorities.
Dr. Kevin Post and Dr. Mara Hermiston with Avera Health will present Rural Health Care Done Right–Together, an interactive session exploring collaborative approaches and innovative care models strengthening rural health delivery across South Dakota.
Attendees will also hear directly from SDAHO leadership during SDAHO State Advocacy Update, as they provide insight into the 2026 legislative session, advocacy priorities, and evolving health care policy issues impacting organizations statewide.
In Partnering for Impact: How SDAHO’s Rural Health Initiatives Team Helps Healthcare Facilities Succeed, SDAHO’s Rural Health Initiatives team will highlight available resources, funding opportunities, and partnership strategies supporting hospitals and health care facilities across the state.
The day wraps up with the Vendor Social — a chance to connect with peers and explore innovative technology, services, and solutions from SDAHO partners and sponsors.
A new location. A milestone anniversary. Incredible education. The 2026 Rural Health Leaders Conference is less than a month away — and you won’t want to miss it.
