450+ Attend SDAHO 97th Annual Convention in Sioux Falls
More than 450 individuals came together in Sioux Falls to attend SDAHO's Annual Convention September 20 - 22. This year's event had many important components, including amazing keynote speakers, educational sessions, 59 diverse sponsors and exhibitors, and the celebration of colleagues for outstanding service and excellence.
In addition, there were numerous opportunities to renew past friendships, enjoy great food, fellowship and fun! As we return home to our daily roles, it seems fitting to share some reflections from the two day event.
The event began on Wednesday afternoon when more than 40 golfers gathered to participate in the annual golf tournament held at the Willow Run golf course.
Opening keynote speaker Joe Mull engaged the audience by simply asking the question, do you really understand what leads ordinary people to become dedicated employees? In his compelling presentation, leadership and retention expert, Joe Mull dispels the pervasive myth that are hindering hiring and shared three factors that determine whether someone will join your organization, stay long term, and commit to doing great work.
Rick Melmer, RVM Consulting shared how to develop high-performing teams and Daniel Card from Think3D shared the three dimensions of a healthy culture, including, examining the personal, professional and potential through interactive activities. Zil Joyce Dixon Romero, State Government Affairs Manager with the National Rural Health Association (NRHA), provided updates on national regulatory developments concerning rural healthcare and provided insight into the healthcare policy landscape for the upcoming year.
Futurist, Dr. Steve Berkowitz provided an eye opening presentation on the future of artificial intelligence and how this will impact healthcare. In addition, a number of presentations were available to address the challenging workforce shortage issues, ways to advance quality integration, approaches to behavioral healthcare, and a moving testimonial on overcoming substance abuse with tangible resources for attendees to take back to their facilities to help others in need.
Over 59 sponsors and exhibitors greeted attendees during the exhibitor social on Thursday evening. McGough Construction and SDAHO Enterprises sponsored this years event. Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors and exhibitors, nearly 40 gifts were provided throughout the event.
Lastly, closing keynote V.J. Smith took attendees on an emotional journey on the importance of writing thank you cards and the lasting impact this can have on our children, our community and the world.
We offer a sincere congratulations to this year's Distinguished Service Award and Affiliate Award recipients and appreciation for our affiliate societies, presenters, and our many sponsors and exhibitors who once again helped make the annual convention a success!