I am so happy to live in a place that has Octobers and the beauty they bring. October colors are truly the grand finale to another wonderful year in life.
It is hard to believe it has been a month since we saw one another at the Healthcare Coalition Conference in beautiful Owensboro. I so much enjoyed seeing you all and had an opportunity to catch-up with most. Though we work in a field that is immensely challenging, you could not tell by the look on your faces and the good times we had. We have in fact “grown-up” together and rely on each other for support and friendship. This event has become a “family reunion” for many of us, and I look forward to this event every single year.
I am proud to say this year’s HCC event was the best-attended yet! In total, we were just shy of 500 participants! bluegrass music bathed the entire conference, which set the tone for the location. Tuesday started with a round of golf at the wonderful Owensboro Country Club, (what a treat!) followed by the presidents reception, which was standing room only. Our first morning opening speaker, Commander Kirk Lippold, inspired listeners with true stories of leadership, accountability and bravery. Our special presentation on the Joplin Tornado left the auditorium silent as we all pondered the repercussions of such an event in our own hometowns. Attendees experienced a vendor hall and trade show that was second to none, highlighting all of the latest and greatest in technology and services necessary for our success. Casino night ended the first day with loud and rowdy fun had by all!
The second day started with an early breakfast/KSHE business meeting with the best attendance ever, followed by the always popular “State of the State” address by Nancy Galvagni of KHA. Both days were charged with educational programs chosen to meet today’s specific needs. The addition of the “Tool Belt” educational series proved to be a success and brought front-line staff to the conference. Our new emergency management track improved competencies for individuals in the areas of safety, security, environment of care, healthcare and public health.
Conference feedback from attendees, vendors, partners, speakers and trade-show staff was all positive, with many stating, “This was the Best Conference they attended this year!” Everyone seemed to find great value in attending the HCC event and was happy they took the time to be in Owensboro.
I would like to personally thank your volunteer Board of Directors for all their behind-the-scenes work to make this conference and its educational sessions possible. In addition, on behalf of the KSHE Board, I would like to extend special thanks and gratitude to our friends Mark Taylor, Lydia Rudy and Kirby McThompson of CMP our chapter management partner, for developing this amazing event….a job very well done! Thank you all.
Planning for next year’s event is already underway. I can promise you I plan to attend this reunion!
Kentucky Proud,
Jack Merrill CHE, CHFM, CHPA, CHC
President, KSHE