June 24-25, 2026 | Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center | Pierre, South Dakota
The countdown is on! The 2026 Rural Health Leaders Conference is just around the corner, and this year’s event promises to be one of the most exciting yet. With a new location, fresh perspectives, practical solutions, and plenty of opportunities to connect, there are countless reasons to join us in Pierre.
Still need convincing? Here are our Top 10 Reasons to attend:
10. Experience a New Conference Home
For the first time, the Rural Health Leaders Conference heads to the Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center in Pierre, bringing attendees together in the heart of South Dakota for a fresh conference experience.
9. Celebrate a Century of Leadership
This year’s theme, “A Century Strong: Charting the Next Frontier of Rural Health,” builds on SDAHO’s 100-year legacy while focusing squarely on the future of health care leadership.
8. Hear an Inspiring Keynote
Opening keynote speaker Jon Carmichael will share The Eclipse Mindset, an engaging presentation about preparation, perspective, and navigating moments that can change everything—lessons that resonate deeply with today’s healthcare leaders.
7. Earn Continuing Education Credits
Why not learn and earn at the same time? Attendees can earn valuable continuing education opportunities, including ACHE credits and nursing home administrator hours.
6. Learn Together
Unlike many conferences with competing breakout sessions, the Rural Health Leaders Conference features a single-track format, allowing everyone to participate in the same conversations, share insights, and engage in deeper discussions. No fear of missing out required.
5. Take Home Practical Solutions
Sessions focus on real-world challenges facing rural health care organizations today, including workforce development, advocacy, governance, emergency management, compliance, and community partnerships. Expect ideas you can put into action immediately.
4. Stay Ahead of What’s Next
Health care continues to evolve through emerging technology, changing regulations, and new partnerships. This conference is designed to help leaders anticipate change and confidently navigate the future.
3. Network with Rural Health Leaders from Across the State
Some of the best ideas happen between sessions. Connect with peers, share experiences, discuss challenges, and discover innovative solutions during networking opportunities throughout the conference, including the Vendor Social.
2. Gain Exclusive SDAHO Insights
Hear directly from SDAHO experts on advocacy, rural health initiatives, workforce development, funding opportunities, and statewide health care priorities. These sessions provide timely information that can help your organization succeed.
1. Invest in Yourself—and Your Organization
At its core, the Rural Health Leaders Conference is an investment in leadership. Whether you’re a CEO, administrator, director, manager, or emerging leader, you’ll leave with new ideas, stronger connections, and practical strategies to help your organization thrive.
Ready to Join Us?
Join your colleagues from across South Dakota on June 24-25 in Pierre and be part of the conversation that helps define the future of rural health care.
Deadline to register is June 16th!
Learn more and register at: 2026 Rural Health Leaders Conference
