Autumn, a wonderful time of beautiful colors and gathering in the harvest! In the agricultural areas of our nation, this is the time when we literally get to reap what we have sown. I was struck by this analogy as I traveled back home after the annual conference in Chicago. For those of us lucky enough to have attended, we had the opportunity to gather in new information, meet new colleagues and return to our organizations with a great many more resources in tow.

A highlight for me was to celebrate the 50th anniversary mark with many of the leaders who have helped us reach this milestone. There were 16 past board presidents attending with us, along with many past board members. We enjoyed a special evening celebrating and re-connecting. The next night was a great night at the ballroom at the end of Navy Pier. Chicago food, jazz and gaming tables inside this stunning venue made it an evening that will long be remembered (Fake money was used.). Special thanks goes out to MetLife, TIAA-CREF and IRI Consulting who made these wonderful evenings possible.

I also want to thank all the generous sponsors, exhibitors and advertisers who made this meeting extra special.  

If you missed the conference, make plans now to try to get to Orlando next year. These events are too important to be missed.  

All my best,

Vice President, Chief Human Resource Officer

St. Luke’s Health System

Boise, Idaho