Education Sessions

Keynote: It's Not About Birth Year — The Evolution of Employees from A to Gen Z
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 2.0 for All
Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.

Instead of fueling the “us versus them” fire on your team, it’s time to explore the “why” behind the unique mindsets of our multigenerational workforce. Understand how Baby Boomers, GenX, Millennials and Gen Z were raised differently and the impact of their upbringing on the employer-employee relationship. We will also dispel myths about younger workers’ perceived lack of professionalism and work ethic. Magnet Culture’s award-winning generational lens provides valuable insights to navigate key challenges and opportunities presented by today’s new workforce. It’s time to create a workplace that more effectively manages multigenerational teams, as one-size leadership styles no longer fit all.  

The Power of Small Moments – Turning Good Care into Great Experiences
Chris Sund | CEU: 1.0 for All

In long-term care, the resident experience is shaped by small, everyday interactions. This session shows how communication, empathy and intentional connection can reduce anxiety, build trust and improve satisfaction for residents and families. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to enhance communication, remove friction and create meaningful experiences across every role in the organization.

PDPM Basics: Understanding Nursing Home Reimbursement Through Case Studies
Michelle Stober | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N

This introductory session provides a practical foundation of the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) for skilled nursing facilities. Designed for operators, clinicians and reimbursement staff, the course breaks down the core components of PDPM and connects them directly to day-to-day facility operations. Through interactive, real-world resident case studies, attendees will see how documentation, clinical conditions and coding decisions influence reimbursement outcomes and leave with a stronger understanding of how to accurately capture reimbursement.

Finding Value in all DISC Behavioral Styles
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Do you ever scratch your head at coworkers who do things the opposite way you would? Moving from judgment to understanding differences is a key to decreasing unnecessary conflict and improving team effectiveness.

Infection Prevention Program in 7 Steps
Missy Travis | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N

A strong infection prevention program is essential to protecting residents, supporting staff and maintaining regulatory compliance. This session will break the infection prevention process into seven practical steps that long-term care providers can implement regardless of facility size or resources. Attendees will learn how to build a sustainable, flexible program that improves compliance with infection prevention practices, engages staff and leadership and makes the most of limited time and resources.

Trauma-Informed Care - Eating Disorders in the Elderly
Barbara Speedling | CEUs: 1.0 for All

Eating disorders and malnutrition are significant but often overlooked challenges among older adults, particularly in long-term care settings. This session provides a practical, common-sense approach to improving the dining experience by exploring the challenges of meeting a broad range of resident personalities and preferences. Attendees will examine the important role food plays in socialization and learn how engaging residents in planning, preparing and sharing meals can improve food satisfaction, nutrition and overall health.

Organizational Excellence Driven by the Baldrige Framework
Ron Smith and Karen Kiel Rosser | CEUs: 1.0 for All

Every organization strives for excellence, but achieving lasting results requires more than isolated improvement initiatives. Join this session to learn how Mary Greeley Medical Center, a 2019 Baldrige Award recipient, uses the Baldrige Excellence Framework to align strategy, integrate performance improvement efforts and build a culture of continuous excellence. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical insights they can apply to strengthen their own organizations, regardless of where they are on their performance excellence journey.

HR 101: Building a Strong Foundation for Your Workplace
Laura Folkerts | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, DH, N

Whether you're new to human resources (HR) or looking to strengthen your understanding of HR fundamentals, this session provides an overview of the essential practices that support a successful workplace. Explore the employee lifecycle, including effective onboarding, the purpose and value of employee handbooks and key employment laws that help organizations maintain compliance while fostering a positive work environment.

Say Farewell to F880 Citations
Missy Travis | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N

Infection prevention remains one of the most highly scrutinized areas during the survey process, making F880 citations a top concern for long-term care providers. This session explores the most common infection control deficiencies cited during surveys and provides practical strategies to strengthen infection prevention practices, reduce the spread of infections and minimize the risk of receiving F880 citations.

Be Investigation Ready: What HR Needs to Know and Do Before the Charge Arrives
Mark Hudson | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, SS

HR leaders play a critical role in minimizing organizational risk through prompt, impartial and well-documented workplace investigations. This session will help HR professionals strengthen their approach to workplace investigations, improve documentation practices and prepare for complaints brought before enforcement agencies, such as the Civil Rights Commission. Through practical examples and real-world guidance, attendees will learn how to conduct defensible investigations, preserve critical evidence and respond effectively to agency inquiries while supporting fair and compliant workplace practices.

Rethinking Staff Development - Why Inservice Doesn't Work
Barbara Speedling | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Traditional inservice education often falls short because, for education to be valuable, students must be interested in learning. Too few inservice classrooms are filled with eager minds. Most participants are pulled away from their jobs with little notice and expected to absorb important information in a brief session led by someone who is equally uninspired. More than teaching, education must be about engaging learners and encouraging conversation about how to apply new knowledge. This collaborative approach transforms the classroom into an innovative think tank dedicated to improving safety, comfort and satisfaction throughout the community.

The Future of Value-Based Care: What Nursing Home Operators Need to Know for 2027
Eric Palm and Keith Persinger | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM

This session will provide a practical, operator-focused look at today's value-based landscape and what to expect as CMS continues its shift toward outcome-based payment models through 2027. Attendees will gain a better understanding of current and emerging models, including MSSP, ACO REACH, I-SNPs and the new LEAD Model, while exploring how evolving payment structures will influence referrals, care coordination, operational strategy and financial performance. Participants will leave with a practical framework for evaluating which value-based strategies best align with their organization's goals, market and capabilities.

Keynote: Ignite Your Intuition
Kraig Karges | 2.0 CEUs for All
Sponsored by Brown Winick Law Firm

This one-of-a-kind session does more than simply amaze and entertain. Participants will learn memory techniques, test their intuition and discover how to tap into their subconscious minds to enhance creativity and decision making. Through hands-on, interactive activities, attendees will explore new ways to unlock their potential, strengthen personal confidence and achieve greater success.

Annual Business Meeting

Balancing Home Life and Safety in Long-Term Care Settings
Missy Travis | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, ALMC

Creating a homelike environment while maintaining a safe and compliant care setting is an ongoing challenge for long-term care providers. This session explores the key components of effective Environment of Care (EOC) rounds and provides practical guidance for evaluating safety, regulatory compliance and resident quality of life. Attendees will learn how to develop a customized rounding tool, apply current regulations and best practices and assess the effectiveness of their organization's EOC program.

Food Safety Fun and Games
Julie Halfpop | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, D

Put your food safety knowledge to the test in this interactive session that turns essential safety practices into a fun, hands-on learning experience. Through games, challenges and an escape room-style activity, attendees will work together to solve food safety scenarios, identify potential hazards and apply best practices related to food handling, preparation, storage and service. Along the way, participants will reinforce key food safety principles, strengthen problem-solving and teamwork skills and discover engaging ways to make food safety education memorable. Come ready to think, collaborate and have some fun while sharpening the skills that help keep residents safe.

Your Favorite F-Word: F-Tags
Allison Fox | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, DH

Medication management remains one of the most closely scrutinized areas during the survey process, making compliance essential for avoiding deficiencies and protecting resident safety. This session reviews the most frequently cited medication-related F-tags, common medication cart and documentation errors and practical strategies for strengthening medication systems. Attendees will also explore how a strong partnership with their pharmacy provider can improve compliance, reduce survey risk and support quality resident care.

The Stars of YOUR Show
Kim Warnecke | CEUs: 1.5 for All

This session focuses on employees, helping them feel like the stars of the show. We know there is a direct correlation between positive employee retention and improved resident outcomes. To retain employees and build a workplace where people want to work, we must first focus on our people so they can focus on the residents, patients and clients they serve. Through thought-provoking ideas, practical examples and real-world strategies, attendees will discover ways to strengthen workplace culture, increase employee engagement and create an environment where team members feel valued, connected and inspired to stay.

Successful Discharge Begins on Admission – Improve Outcomes through Effective Care Navigation and Live Analytics
Michele Self | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, SS

Successful discharge planning begins on the day of admission. This session explores how effective care navigation, live post-acute analytics and interdisciplinary collaboration can improve care planning, strengthen care transitions and reduce avoidable hospital readmissions. Attendees will learn how to leverage post-acute data, Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and patient-centered care coordination strategies to anticipate patient needs, improve communication across the care continuum and support better clinical and financial outcomes.

Growth and Sustainability: Defining Measurable Success in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for All

Long-term and post-acute care organizations are facing a defining moment. Demographic shifts, workforce pressures, rising expectations and financial uncertainty are forcing leaders to rethink what sustainable growth actually looks like. This session helps administrators and executives move beyond broad strategic planning language to define measurable success in practical, organizational terms. Attendees will explore how to align leadership, staff, resources and priorities around growth that is mission-centered, financially responsible and built for the realities of the years ahead.

Reducing Antipsychotics without Increasing Chaos
Allison Fox | CEUs: ADM,N, DH

Reducing unnecessary antipsychotic use remains a key quality measure and an area of continued regulatory focus for long-term care providers. This session explores practical strategies for reducing antipsychotic medications without increasing staff burden by emphasizing non-pharmacologic interventions, gradual dose reductions and effective behavior management techniques. Attendees will leave with actionable approaches to support resident-centered care while improving quality outcomes and regulatory compliance.

The Interview Process and Retention
Jo Ellen Whitney | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, ALMC

Effective interviews do more than fill open positions — they strengthen recruitment, improve retention and reduce organizational risk. This session explores best practices for conducting initial, stay and exit interviews in long-term care settings. Participants will learn how to ask effective questions, recognize legal pitfalls, identify trends affecting workforce stability and use interview insights to improve hiring, employee engagement and retention while maintaining consistent, legally sound practices.

Documentation that Protects Residents, Staff and Reimbursement
Tasha Janssen | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, SS

Effective documentation is more than a regulatory requirement. It is a critical tool for resident safety, legal protection, quality outcomes and financial sustainability. In this session, attendees will learn how documentation supports reimbursement, defends clinical decision-making, demonstrates compliance and reduces organizational risk. Through case studies and real-world examples, participants will identify common documentation pitfalls and learn strategies to strengthen clinical and operational documentation practices across their organizations.

Proactive vs. Reactive Management
Chad Zuehlke | CEU: 1.0 for N, ADM, DH

In long-term care, leaders often feel like they're constantly responding to staffing shortages, regulatory changes, survey findings, resident concerns and unexpected operational challenges. But is it possible to shift from a reactive approach to a proactive one while maintaining financial stability? This session will explore practical strategies for anticipating challenges, identifying opportunities for improvement and creating systems that support proactive decision-making. Attendees will also examine how reactive situations can become valuable learning opportunities that strengthen operations, improve outcomes and support long-term organizational success.

A Natural Connection: Programming to Promote Engagement in the Outdoor World
Carla Bacon Smith | CEU: 1.0 for AP, ADM, ALMC

Gardening and nature-based activities have wide appeal for older adults, including those living in long-term care settings. Horticulture programs offer therapeutic benefits while creating meaningful opportunities for learning, socialization and leisure skill development. This session will explore a successful, seasonally adaptable program that encourages residents to engage with the natural world through both group and individual activities.

Demystifying and Maximizing IPAs to Ensure Accurate PDPM Reimbursement
Jim Shearon | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N

This session will demystify the Interim Payment Assessment (IPA) process and provide practical strategies to ensure your facility captures all the care it delivers. Attendees will learn when and how to complete an IPA, identify clinical changes that drive payment adjustments, explore the financial and compliance benefits of timely assessments and establish clinical and operational criteria that support audit readiness and accurate Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) reimbursement.

Leading Through Transition: Strategic Leadership for the Next Decade of Long-Term Care
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, ALMC, N, DH

Leadership transitions can either strengthen an organization or expose every unresolved weakness within it. As long-term care continues to evolve, administrators and senior leaders must be prepared to guide teams through uncertainty, preserve trust and maintain operational momentum during periods of change. This session combines strategic vision with practical transition leadership, helping participants anticipate leadership gaps, communicate effectively during change and build cultures that remain steady even when roles, expectations and external pressures shift.

Practical Workers' Compensation Strategies for Long-Term Care Leaders
Joni Ploeger | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, ALMC, N, DH

Workers' compensation claims can be complex, particularly in long-term care environments where employee injuries are common.  This session provides a practical overview of employer and employee responsibilities, Iowa-specific requirements and best practices for responding to workplace injuries. Participants will learn strategies for managing claims, supporting successful return-to-work efforts, coordinating workers' compensation with ADA and FMLA requirements and reducing organizational risk through effective documentation and communication.

From Report to Resolution - An Inside Look with Iowa's Licensing Investigators
Kathleen Beebout and Michelle Roberts | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N

Go behind the scenes with Iowa's licensing investigators for an inside look at the professional licensing investigation process. Learn what happens after a complaint is filed, when reporting and self-reporting are required, how investigations are conducted and what licensed professionals can expect throughout the process. Investigators will also discuss common misconceptions, answer frequently asked questions and provide practical guidance to help nurses and nursing home administrators better understand their professional responsibilities. The session concludes with an extended Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions directly to the investigation team.

Data, Deadlines and Dollars: Mastering the SNF QRP
Amy Miller | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, DH

The Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (SNF QRP) plays a critical role in regulatory compliance, public reporting and Medicare reimbursement for nursing homes. This session will provide a foundational understanding of the SNF QRP, including its purpose, structure and impact on facility operations and payment. Attendees will review the primary data sources used within the program, understand the three compliance thresholds facilities must meet to avoid Medicare payment penalties and identify practical steps to monitor compliance, support accurate reporting and reduce financial and regulatory risk.

The First 72 Hours – Managing a High-Risk New Admission
Tasha Janssen | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, SS

The first 72 hours following admission can significantly impact resident outcomes, satisfaction, hospital readmissions and regulatory compliance. This session focuses on best practices for identifying and managing high-risk residents during the critical transition into long-term care, skilled nursing or assisted living environments. Participants will explore interdisciplinary approaches to assessment, medication management, communication and care planning that improve safety and reduce avoidable complications.

Keynote: The Sacred Acre: The Ed Thomas Story
Aaron Thomas | CEUs: 1.5 for All
Sponsored by Gallagher

Following the tragic murder of his father, legendary Iowa high school football coach Ed Thomas, Aaron Thomas was faced with an extraordinary challenge — to carry forward his father's legacy of leadership, resilience and compassion. In this powerful keynote, Aaron shares his family's remarkable journey of forgiveness, purpose and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through personal stories and timeless life lessons, attendees will be challenged to embrace the power of choice, lead with courage and become true difference-makers in their organizations, communities and personal lives.

Keynote: It's Not About Birth Year — The Evolution of Employees from A to Gen Z
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 2.0 for All
Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.

Instead of fueling the “us versus them” fire on your team, it’s time to explore the “why” behind the unique mindsets of our multigenerational workforce. Understand how Baby Boomers, GenX, Millennials and Gen Z were raised differently and the impact of their upbringing on the employer-employee relationship. We will also dispel myths about younger workers’ perceived lack of professionalism and work ethic. Magnet Culture’s award-winning generational lens provides valuable insights to navigate key challenges and opportunities presented by today’s new workforce. It’s time to create a workplace that more effectively manages multigenerational teams, as one-size leadership styles no longer fit all.  

The Power of Small Moments – Turning Good Care into Great Experiences
Chris Sund | CEU: 1.0 for All

In long-term care, the resident experience is shaped by small, everyday interactions. This session shows how communication, empathy and intentional connection can reduce anxiety, build trust and improve satisfaction for residents and families. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to enhance communication, remove friction and create meaningful experiences across every role in the organization.

PDPM Basics: Understanding Nursing Home Reimbursement Through Case Studies
Michelle Stober | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N

This introductory session provides a practical foundation of the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) for skilled nursing facilities. Designed for operators, clinicians and reimbursement staff, the course breaks down the core components of PDPM and connects them directly to day-to-day facility operations. Through interactive, real-world resident case studies, attendees will see how documentation, clinical conditions and coding decisions influence reimbursement outcomes and leave with a stronger understanding of how to accurately capture reimbursement.

Finding Value in all DISC Behavioral Styles
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Do you ever scratch your head at coworkers who do things the opposite way you would? Moving from judgment to understanding differences is a key to decreasing unnecessary conflict and improving team effectiveness.

Infection Prevention Program in 7 Steps
Missy Travis | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N

A strong infection prevention program is essential to protecting residents, supporting staff and maintaining regulatory compliance. This session will break the infection prevention process into seven practical steps that long-term care providers can implement regardless of facility size or resources. Attendees will learn how to build a sustainable, flexible program that improves compliance with infection prevention practices, engages staff and leadership and makes the most of limited time and resources.

Trauma-Informed Care - Eating Disorders in the Elderly
Barbara Speedling | CEU: 1.0 for All

Eating disorders and malnutrition are significant but often overlooked challenges among older adults, particularly in long-term care settings. This session provides a practical, common-sense approach to improving the dining experience by exploring the challenges of meeting a broad range of resident personalities and preferences. Attendees will examine the important role food plays in socialization and learn how engaging residents in planning, preparing and sharing meals can improve food satisfaction, nutrition and overall health.

Organizational Excellence Driven by the Baldrige Framework
Ron Smith and Karen Kiel Rosser | CEU: 1.0 for All

Every organization strives for excellence, but achieving lasting results requires more than isolated improvement initiatives. Join this session to learn how Mary Greeley Medical Center, a 2019 Baldrige Award recipient, uses the Baldrige Excellence Framework to align strategy, integrate performance improvement efforts and build a culture of continuous excellence. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical insights they can apply to strengthen their own organizations, regardless of where they are on their performance excellence journey.

HR 101: Building a Strong Foundation for Your Workplace
Laura Folkerts | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, DH, N

Whether you're new to human resources (HR) or looking to strengthen your understanding of HR fundamentals, this session provides an overview of the essential practices that support a successful workplace. Explore the employee lifecycle, including effective onboarding, the purpose and value of employee handbooks and key employment laws that help organizations maintain compliance while fostering a positive work environment.

Say Farewell to F880 Citations
Missy Travis | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N

Infection prevention remains one of the most highly scrutinized areas during the survey process, making F880 citations a top concern for long-term care providers. This session explores the most common infection control deficiencies cited during surveys and provides practical strategies to strengthen infection prevention practices, reduce the spread of infections and minimize the risk of receiving F880 citations.

Be Investigation Ready: What HR Needs to Know and Do Before the Charge Arrives
Mark Hudson | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, SS

HR leaders play a critical role in minimizing organizational risk through prompt, impartial and well-documented workplace investigations. This session will help HR professionals strengthen their approach to workplace investigations, improve documentation practices and prepare for complaints brought before enforcement agencies, such as the Civil Rights Commission. Through practical examples and real-world guidance, attendees will learn how to conduct defensible investigations, preserve critical evidence and respond effectively to agency inquiries while supporting fair and compliant workplace practices.

Talk That Talk - Nurse Communication Skills that Change Outcomes
Veronica Ceaser | CEU: 1.0 for N

Effective communication is more than talking — it's a clinical intervention. In this high-energy, practical session, nurses will learn how intentional communication can improve resident outcomes, strengthen team coordination and reduce preventable errors in long-term care. Through real-world scenarios, evidence-based tools and interactive practice, attendees will gain practical skills to communicate clearly, confidently and compassionately with residents, families and the interdisciplinary team while supporting quality, safety and person-centered care.

Rethinking Staff Development - Why Inservice Doesn't Work
Barbara Speedling | CEUs: 1.5 for ALL

Traditional inservice education often falls short because, for education to be valuable, students must be interested in learning. Too few inservice classrooms are filled with eager minds. Most participants are pulled away from their jobs with little notice and expected to absorb important information in a brief session led by someone who is equally uninspired. More than teaching, education must be about engaging learners and encouraging conversation about how to apply new knowledge. This collaborative approach transforms the classroom into an innovative think tank dedicated to improving safety, comfort and satisfaction throughout the community.

Keynote: Ignite Your Intuition
Kraig Karges | 2.0 CEUs for All
Sponsored by Brown Winick Law Firm

This one-of-a-kind session does more than simply amaze and entertain. Participants will learn memory techniques, test their intuition and discover how to tap into their subconscious minds to enhance creativity and decision making. Through hands-on, interactive activities, attendees will explore new ways to unlock their potential, strengthen personal confidence and achieve greater success.

Annual Business Meeting

Balancing Home Life and Safety in Long-Term Care Settings
Missy Travis | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, ALMC

Creating a homelike environment while maintaining a safe and compliant care setting is an ongoing challenge for long-term care providers. This session explores the key components of effective Environment of Care (EOC) rounds and provides practical guidance for evaluating safety, regulatory compliance and resident quality of life. Attendees will learn how to develop a customized rounding tool, apply current regulations and best practices and assess the effectiveness of their organization's EOC program.

Your Favorite F-Word: F-Tags
Allison Fox | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, DH

Medication management remains one of the most closely scrutinized areas during the survey process, making compliance essential for avoiding deficiencies and protecting resident safety. This session reviews the most frequently cited medication-related F-tags, common medication cart and documentation errors and practical strategies for strengthening medication systems. Attendees will also explore how a strong partnership with their pharmacy provider can improve compliance, reduce survey risk and support quality resident care.

The Stars of YOUR Show
Kim Warnecke | CEUs: 1.5 for All

This session focuses on employees, helping them feel like the stars of the show. We know there is a direct correlation between positive employee retention and improved resident outcomes. To retain employees and build a workplace where people want to work, we must first focus on our people so they can focus on the residents, patients and clients they serve. Through thought-provoking ideas, practical examples and real-world strategies, attendees will discover ways to strengthen workplace culture, increase employee engagement and create an environment where team members feel valued, connected and inspired to stay.

Service Plans that Stand Up to Survey
Amy Skelton | CEUs: 1.5 for ALMC, N

A compliant service plan is more than a required document — it's the roadmap for resident care. This session explores common deficiencies, documentation pitfalls and surveyor expectations while providing practical guidance for developing service plans that are individualized, actionable and consistently implemented. Attendees will gain strategies to strengthen documentation, improve team communication and support quality resident care while maintaining regulatory compliance.

Successful Discharge Begins on Admission – Improve Outcomes through Effective Care Navigation and Live Analytics
Michele Self | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, SS

Successful discharge planning begins on the day of admission. This session explores how effective care navigation, live post-acute analytics and interdisciplinary collaboration can improve care planning, strengthen care transitions and reduce avoidable hospital readmissions. Attendees will learn how to leverage post-acute data, Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and patient-centered care coordination strategies to anticipate patient needs, improve communication across the care continuum and support better clinical and financial outcomes.

Growth and Sustainability: Defining Measurable Success in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for All

Long-term and post-acute care organizations are facing a defining moment. Demographic shifts, workforce pressures, rising expectations and financial uncertainty are forcing leaders to rethink what sustainable growth actually looks like. This session helps administrators and executives move beyond broad strategic planning language to define measurable success in practical, organizational terms. Attendees will explore how to align leadership, staff, resources and priorities around growth that is mission-centered, financially responsible and built for the realities of the years ahead.

Reducing Antipsychotics without Increasing Chaos
Allison Fox | CEUs: ADM,N, DH

Reducing unnecessary antipsychotic use remains a key quality measure and an area of continued regulatory focus for long-term care providers. This session explores practical strategies for reducing antipsychotic medications without increasing staff burden by emphasizing non-pharmacologic interventions, gradual dose reductions and effective behavior management techniques. Attendees will leave with actionable approaches to support resident-centered care while improving quality outcomes and regulatory compliance.

The Interview Process and Retention
Jo Ellen Whitney | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, ALMC

Effective interviews do more than fill open positions — they strengthen recruitment, improve retention and reduce organizational risk. This session explores best practices for conducting initial, stay and exit interviews in long-term care settings. Participants will learn how to ask effective questions, recognize legal pitfalls, identify trends affecting workforce stability and use interview insights to improve hiring, employee engagement and retention while maintaining consistent, legally sound practices.

Documentation That Protects Residents, Staff and Reimbursement
Tasha Janssen | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, SS

Effective documentation is more than a regulatory requirement. It is a critical tool for resident safety, legal protection, quality outcomes and financial sustainability. In this session, attendees will learn how documentation supports reimbursement, defends clinical decision-making, demonstrates compliance and reduces organizational risk. Through case studies and real-world examples, participants will identify common documentation pitfalls and learn strategies to strengthen clinical and operational documentation practices across their organizations.

Proactive vs. Reactive Management
Chad Zuehlke | CEU: 1.0 for N, ADM, DH

In long-term care, leaders often feel like they're constantly responding to staffing shortages, regulatory changes, survey findings, resident concerns and unexpected operational challenges. But is it possible to shift from a reactive approach to a proactive one while maintaining financial stability? This session will explore practical strategies for anticipating challenges, identifying opportunities for improvement and creating systems that support proactive decision-making. Attendees will also examine how reactive situations can become valuable learning opportunities that strengthen operations, improve outcomes and support long-term organizational success

Demystifying and Maximizing IPAs to Ensure Accurate PDPM Reimbursement
Jim Shearon | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N

This session will demystify the Interim Payment Assessment (IPA) process and provide practical strategies to ensure your facility captures all the care it delivers. Attendees will learn when and how to complete an IPA, identify clinical changes that drive payment adjustments, explore the financial and compliance benefits of timely assessments and establish clinical and operational criteria that support audit readiness and accurate Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) reimbursement.

Leading Through Transition: Strategic Leadership for the Next Decade of Long-Term Care
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, ALMC, N, DH

Leadership transitions can either strengthen an organization or expose every unresolved weakness within it. As long-term care continues to evolve, administrators and senior leaders must be prepared to guide teams through uncertainty, preserve trust and maintain operational momentum during periods of change. This session combines strategic vision with practical transition leadership, helping participants anticipate leadership gaps, communicate effectively during change and build cultures that remain steady even when roles, expectations and external pressures shift.

Practical Workers' Compensation Strategies for Long-Term Care Leaders
Joni Ploeger | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, ALMC, N, DH

Workers' compensation claims can be complex, particularly in long-term care environments where employee injuries are common.  This session provides a practical overview of employer and employee responsibilities, Iowa-specific requirements and best practices for responding to workplace injuries. Participants will learn strategies for managing claims, supporting successful return-to-work efforts, coordinating workers' compensation with ADA and FMLA requirements and reducing organizational risk through effective documentation and communication.

Making Confident Level of Care Decisions
Amy Skelton | CEUs: 1.5 for ALMC, N, SS

Determining the appropriate level of care is one of the most important — and often most challenging — responsibilities in assisted living. This session takes a deeper dive into evaluating resident needs, recognizing when a change in level of care is warranted and documenting decisions that support quality care and regulatory compliance. Through real-world scenarios, survey trends and practical guidance, attendees will strengthen their decision-making process and gain confidence in managing changing resident needs while meeting Iowa's assisted living requirements.

From Report to Resolution - An Inside Look with Iowa's Licensing Investigators
Kathleen Beebout and Michelle Roberts | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N

Go behind the scenes with Iowa's licensing investigators for an inside look at the professional licensing investigation process. Learn what happens after a complaint is filed, when reporting and self-reporting are required, how investigations are conducted and what licensed professionals can expect throughout the process. Investigators will also discuss common misconceptions, answer frequently asked questions and provide practical guidance to help nurses and nursing home administrators better understand their professional responsibilities. The session concludes with an extended Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions directly to the investigation team.

Data, Deadlines and Dollars: Mastering the SNF QRP
Amy Miller | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, DH

The Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (SNF QRP) plays a critical role in regulatory compliance, public reporting and Medicare reimbursement for nursing homes. This session will provide a foundational understanding of the SNF QRP, including its purpose, structure and impact on facility operations and payment. Attendees will review the primary data sources used within the program, understand the three compliance thresholds facilities must meet to avoid Medicare payment penalties and identify practical steps to monitor compliance, support accurate reporting and reduce financial and regulatory risk.

The First 72 Hours – Managing a High-Risk New Admission
Tasha Janssen | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, SS

The first 72 hours following admission can significantly impact resident outcomes, satisfaction, hospital readmissions and regulatory compliance. This session focuses on best practices for identifying and managing high-risk residents during the critical transition into long-term care, skilled nursing or assisted living environments. Participants will explore interdisciplinary approaches to assessment, medication management, communication and care planning that improve safety and reduce avoidable complications.

Keynote: The Sacred Acre: The Ed Thomas Story
Aaron Thomas | CEUs: 1.5 for All
Sponsored by Gallagher

Following the tragic murder of his father, legendary Iowa high school football coach Ed Thomas, Aaron Thomas was faced with an extraordinary challenge — to carry forward his father's legacy of leadership, resilience and compassion. In this powerful keynote, Aaron shares his family's remarkable journey of forgiveness, purpose and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through personal stories and timeless life lessons, attendees will be challenged to embrace the power of choice, lead with courage and become true difference-makers in their organizations, communities and personal lives.

Keynote: It's Not About Birth Year — The Evolution of Employees from A to Gen Z
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 2.0 for All
Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.

Instead of fueling the “us versus them” fire on your team, it’s time to explore the “why” behind the unique mindsets of our multigenerational workforce. Understand how Baby Boomers, GenX, Millennials and Gen Z were raised differently and the impact of their upbringing on the employer-employee relationship. We will also dispel myths about younger workers’ perceived lack of professionalism and work ethic. Magnet Culture’s award-winning generational lens provides valuable insights to navigate key challenges and opportunities presented by today’s new workforce. It’s time to create a workplace that more effectively manages multigenerational teams, as one-size leadership styles no longer fit all.  

The Power of Small Moments – Turning Good Care into Great Experiences
Chris Sund | CEU: 1.0 for All

In long-term care, the resident experience is shaped by small, everyday interactions. This session shows how communication, empathy and intentional connection can reduce anxiety, build trust and improve satisfaction for residents and families. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to enhance communication, remove friction and create meaningful experiences across every role in the organization.

Finding Value in all DISC Behavioral Styles
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Do you ever scratch your head at coworkers who do things the opposite way you would? Moving from judgment to understanding differences is a key to decreasing unnecessary conflict and improving team effectiveness.

Trauma-Informed Care - Eating Disorders in the Elderly
Barbara Speedling | CEU: 1.0 for All

Eating disorders and malnutrition are significant but often overlooked challenges among older adults, particularly in long-term care settings. This session provides a practical, common-sense approach to improving the dining experience by exploring the challenges of meeting a broad range of resident personalities and preferences. Attendees will examine the important role food plays in socialization and learn how engaging residents in planning, preparing and sharing meals can improve food satisfaction, nutrition and overall health.

Organizational Excellence Driven by the Baldrige Framework
Ron Smith and Karen Kiel Rosser | CEU: 1.0 for All

Every organization strives for excellence, but achieving lasting results requires more than isolated improvement initiatives. Join this session to learn how Mary Greeley Medical Center, a 2019 Baldrige Award recipient, uses the Baldrige Excellence Framework to align strategy, integrate performance improvement efforts and build a culture of continuous excellence. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical insights they can apply to strengthen their own organizations, regardless of where they are on their performance excellence journey.

HR 101: Building a Strong Foundation for Your Workplace
Laura Folkerts | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, DH, N

Whether you're new to human resources (HR) or looking to strengthen your understanding of HR fundamentals, this session provides an overview of the essential practices that support a successful workplace. Explore the employee lifecycle, including effective onboarding, the purpose and value of employee handbooks and key employment laws that help organizations maintain compliance while fostering a positive work environment.

Be Investigation Ready: What HR Needs to Know and Do Before the Charge Arrives
Mark Hudson | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, SS

HR leaders play a critical role in minimizing organizational risk through prompt, impartial and well-documented workplace investigations. This session will help HR professionals strengthen their approach to workplace investigations, improve documentation practices and prepare for complaints brought before enforcement agencies, such as the Civil Rights Commission. Through practical examples and real-world guidance, attendees will learn how to conduct defensible investigations, preserve critical evidence and respond effectively to agency inquiries while supporting fair and compliant workplace practices.

Rethinking Staff Development - Why Inservice Doesn't Work
Barbara Speedling | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Traditional inservice education often falls short because, for education to be valuable, students must be interested in learning. Too few inservice classrooms are filled with eager minds. Most participants are pulled away from their jobs with little notice and expected to absorb important information in a brief session led by someone who is equally uninspired. More than teaching, education must be about engaging learners and encouraging conversation about how to apply new knowledge. This collaborative approach transforms the classroom into an innovative think tank dedicated to improving safety, comfort and satisfaction throughout the community.

Keynote: Ignite Your Intuition
Kraig Karges | 2.0 CEUs for All
Sponsored by Brown Winick Law Firm

This one-of-a-kind session does more than simply amaze and entertain. Participants will learn memory techniques, test their intuition and discover how to tap into their subconscious minds to enhance creativity and decision making. Through hands-on, interactive activities, attendees will explore new ways to unlock their potential, strengthen personal confidence and achieve greater success.

Annual Business Meeting

Balancing Home Life and Safety in Long-Term Care Settings
Missy Travis | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, ALMC

Creating a homelike environment while maintaining a safe and compliant care setting is an ongoing challenge for long-term care providers. This session explores the key components of effective Environment of Care (EOC) rounds and provides practical guidance for evaluating safety, regulatory compliance and resident quality of life. Attendees will learn how to develop a customized rounding tool, apply current regulations and best practices and assess the effectiveness of their organization's EOC program.

Your Favorite F-Word: F-Tags
Allison Fox | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, DH

Medication management remains one of the most closely scrutinized areas during the survey process, making compliance essential for avoiding deficiencies and protecting resident safety. This session reviews the most frequently cited medication-related F-tags, common medication cart and documentation errors and practical strategies for strengthening medication systems. Attendees will also explore how a strong partnership with their pharmacy provider can improve compliance, reduce survey risk and support quality resident care.

The Stars of YOUR Show
Kim Warnecke | CEUs: 1.5 for All

This session focuses on employees, helping them feel like the stars of the show. We know there is a direct correlation between positive employee retention and improved resident outcomes. To retain employees and build a workplace where people want to work, we must first focus on our people so they can focus on the residents, patients and clients they serve. Through thought-provoking ideas, practical examples and real-world strategies, attendees will discover ways to strengthen workplace culture, increase employee engagement and create an environment where team members feel valued, connected and inspired to stay.

Growth and Sustainability: Defining Measurable Success in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for All

Long-term and post-acute care organizations are facing a defining moment. Demographic shifts, workforce pressures, rising expectations and financial uncertainty are forcing leaders to rethink what sustainable growth actually looks like. This session helps administrators and executives move beyond broad strategic planning language to define measurable success in practical, organizational terms. Attendees will explore how to align leadership, staff, resources and priorities around growth that is mission-centered, financially responsible and built for the realities of the years ahead.

Reducing Antipsychotics without Increasing Chaos
Allison Fox | CEUs: ADM,N, DH

Reducing unnecessary antipsychotic use remains a key quality measure and an area of continued regulatory focus for long-term care providers. This session explores practical strategies for reducing antipsychotic medications without increasing staff burden by emphasizing non-pharmacologic interventions, gradual dose reductions and effective behavior management techniques. Attendees will leave with actionable approaches to support resident-centered care while improving quality outcomes and regulatory compliance.

The Interview Process and Retention
Jo Ellen Whitney | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, ALMC

Effective interviews do more than fill open positions — they strengthen recruitment, improve retention and reduce organizational risk. This session explores best practices for conducting initial, stay and exit interviews in long-term care settings. Participants will learn how to ask effective questions, recognize legal pitfalls, identify trends affecting workforce stability and use interview insights to improve hiring, employee engagement and retention while maintaining consistent, legally sound practices.

Documentation that Protects Residents, Staff and Reimbursement
Tasha Janssen | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, SS

Effective documentation is more than a regulatory requirement. It is a critical tool for resident safety, legal protection, quality outcomes and financial sustainability. In this session, attendees will learn how documentation supports reimbursement, defends clinical decision-making, demonstrates compliance and reduces organizational risk. Through case studies and real-world examples, participants will identify common documentation pitfalls and learn strategies to strengthen clinical and operational documentation practices across their organizations.

Proactive vs. Reactive Management
Chad Zuehlke | CEU: 1.0 for N, ADM, DH

In long-term care, leaders often feel like they're constantly responding to staffing shortages, regulatory changes, survey findings, resident concerns and unexpected operational challenges. But is it possible to shift from a reactive approach to a proactive one while maintaining financial stability? This session will explore practical strategies for anticipating challenges, identifying opportunities for improvement and creating systems that support proactive decision-making. Attendees will also examine how reactive situations can become valuable learning opportunities that strengthen operations, improve outcomes and support long-term organizational success.

Practical Workers' Compensation Strategies for Long-Term Care Leaders
Joni Ploeger | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, ALMC, N, DH

Workers' compensation claims can be complex, particularly in long-term care environments where employee injuries are common.  This session provides a practical overview of employer and employee responsibilities, Iowa-specific requirements and best practices for responding to workplace injuries. Participants will learn strategies for managing claims, supporting successful return-to-work efforts, coordinating workers' compensation with ADA and FMLA requirements and reducing organizational risk through effective documentation and communication.

Data, Deadlines and Dollars: Mastering the SNF QRP
Amy Miller | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, DH

The Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (SNF QRP) plays a critical role in regulatory compliance, public reporting and Medicare reimbursement for nursing homes. This session will provide a foundational understanding of the SNF QRP, including its purpose, structure and impact on facility operations and payment. Attendees will review the primary data sources used within the program, understand the three compliance thresholds facilities must meet to avoid Medicare payment penalties and identify practical steps to monitor compliance, support accurate reporting and reduce financial and regulatory risk.

Keynote: The Sacred Acre: The Ed Thomas Story
Aaron Thomas | CEUs: 1.5 for All
Sponsored by Gallagher

Following the tragic murder of his father, legendary Iowa high school football coach Ed Thomas, Aaron Thomas was faced with an extraordinary challenge — to carry forward his father's legacy of leadership, resilience and compassion. In this powerful keynote, Aaron shares his family's remarkable journey of forgiveness, purpose and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through personal stories and timeless life lessons, attendees will be challenged to embrace the power of choice, lead with courage and become true difference-makers in their organizations, communities and personal lives.

Keynote: It's Not About Birth Year — The Evolution of Employees from A to Gen Z
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 2.0 for All
Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.

Instead of fueling the “us versus them” fire on your team, it’s time to explore the “why” behind the unique mindsets of our multigenerational workforce. Understand how Baby Boomers, GenX, Millennials and Gen Z were raised differently and the impact of their upbringing on the employer-employee relationship. We will also dispel myths about younger workers’ perceived lack of professionalism and work ethic. Magnet Culture’s award-winning generational lens provides valuable insights to navigate key challenges and opportunities presented by today’s new workforce. It’s time to create a workplace that more effectively manages multigenerational teams, as one-size leadership styles no longer fit all.  

The Power of Small Moments – Turning Good Care into Great Experiences
Chris Sund | CEU: 1.0 for All

In long-term care, the resident experience is shaped by small, everyday interactions. This session shows how communication, empathy and intentional connection can reduce anxiety, build trust and improve satisfaction for residents and families. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to enhance communication, remove friction and create meaningful experiences across every role in the organization.

Finding Value in all DISC Behavioral Styles
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Do you ever scratch your head at coworkers who do things the opposite way you would? Moving from judgment to understanding differences is a key to decreasing unnecessary conflict and improving team effectiveness.

Trauma-Informed Care - Eating Disorders in the Elderly
Barbara Speedling | CEU: 1.0 for All

Eating disorders and malnutrition are significant but often overlooked challenges among older adults, particularly in long-term care settings. This session provides a practical, common-sense approach to improving the dining experience by exploring the challenges of meeting a broad range of resident personalities and preferences. Attendees will examine the important role food plays in socialization and learn how engaging residents in planning, preparing and sharing meals can improve food satisfaction, nutrition and overall health.

Organizational Excellence Driven by the Baldrige Framework
Ron Smith and Karen Kiel Rosser | CEU: 1.0 for All

Every organization strives for excellence, but achieving lasting results requires more than isolated improvement initiatives. Join this session to learn how Mary Greeley Medical Center, a 2019 Baldrige Award recipient, uses the Baldrige Excellence Framework to align strategy, integrate performance improvement efforts and build a culture of continuous excellence. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical insights they can apply to strengthen their own organizations, regardless of where they are on their performance excellence journey.

Keynote: Ignite Your Intuition
Kraig Karges | 2.0 CEUs for All
Sponsored by Brown Winick Law Firm

This one-of-a-kind session does more than simply amaze and entertain. Participants will learn memory techniques, test their intuition and discover how to tap into their subconscious minds to enhance creativity and decision making. Through hands-on, interactive activities, attendees will explore new ways to unlock their potential, strengthen personal confidence and achieve greater success.

Balancing Home Life and Safety in Long-Term Care Settings
Missy Travis | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, ALMC

Creating a homelike environment while maintaining a safe and compliant care setting is an ongoing challenge for long-term care providers. This session explores the key components of effective Environment of Care (EOC) rounds and provides practical guidance for evaluating safety, regulatory compliance and resident quality of life. Attendees will learn how to develop a customized rounding tool, apply current regulations and best practices and assess the effectiveness of their organization's EOC program.

The Stars of YOUR Show
Kim Warnecke | CEUs: 1.5 for All

This session focuses on employees, helping them feel like the stars of the show. We know there is a direct correlation between positive employee retention and improved resident outcomes. To retain employees and build a workplace where people want to work, we must first focus on our people so they can focus on the residents, patients and clients they serve. Through thought-provoking ideas, practical examples and real-world strategies, attendees will discover ways to strengthen workplace culture, increase employee engagement and create an environment where team members feel valued, connected and inspired to stay.

Service Plans that Stand Up to Survey
Amy Skelton | CEUs: 1.5 for ALMC, N

A compliant service plan is more than a required document — it's the roadmap for resident care. This session explores common deficiencies, documentation pitfalls and surveyor expectations while providing practical guidance for developing service plans that are individualized, actionable and consistently implemented. Attendees will gain strategies to strengthen documentation, improve team communication and support quality resident care while maintaining regulatory compliance.

Growth and Sustainability: Defining Measurable Success in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for All

Long-term and post-acute care organizations are facing a defining moment. Demographic shifts, workforce pressures, rising expectations and financial uncertainty are forcing leaders to rethink what sustainable growth actually looks like. This session helps administrators and executives move beyond broad strategic planning language to define measurable success in practical, organizational terms. Attendees will explore how to align leadership, staff, resources and priorities around growth that is mission-centered, financially responsible and built for the realities of the years ahead.

The Interview Process and Retention
Jo Ellen Whitney | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, ALMC

Effective interviews do more than fill open positions — they strengthen recruitment, improve retention and reduce organizational risk. This session explores best practices for conducting initial, stay and exit interviews in long-term care settings. Participants will learn how to ask effective questions, recognize legal pitfalls, identify trends affecting workforce stability and use interview insights to improve hiring, employee engagement and retention while maintaining consistent, legally sound practices.

A Natural Connection: Programming to Promote Engagement in the Outdoor World
Carla Bacon Smith | CEU: 1.0 for AP, ADM, ALMC

Gardening and nature-based activities have wide appeal for older adults, including those living in long-term care settings. Horticulture programs offer therapeutic benefits while creating meaningful opportunities for learning, socialization and leisure skill development. This session will explore a successful, seasonally adaptable program that encourages residents to engage with the natural world through both group and individual activities.

Leading Through Transition: Strategic Leadership for the Next Decade of Long-Term Care
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, ALMC, N, DH

Leadership transitions can either strengthen an organization or expose every unresolved weakness within it. As long-term care continues to evolve, administrators and senior leaders must be prepared to guide teams through uncertainty, preserve trust and maintain operational momentum during periods of change. This session combines strategic vision with practical transition leadership, helping participants anticipate leadership gaps, communicate effectively during change and build cultures that remain steady even when roles, expectations and external pressures shift.

Practical Workers' Compensation Strategies for Long-Term Care Leaders
Joni Ploeger | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, ALMC, N, DH

Workers' compensation claims can be complex, particularly in long-term care environments where employee injuries are common.  This session provides a practical overview of employer and employee responsibilities, Iowa-specific requirements and best practices for responding to workplace injuries. Participants will learn strategies for managing claims, supporting successful return-to-work efforts, coordinating workers' compensation with ADA and FMLA requirements and reducing organizational risk through effective documentation and communication.

Making Confident Level of Care Decisions
Amy Skelton | CEUs: 1.5 for ALMC, N, SS

Determining the appropriate level of care is one of the most important — and often most challenging — responsibilities in assisted living. This session takes a deeper dive into evaluating resident needs, recognizing when a change in level of care is warranted and documenting decisions that support quality care and regulatory compliance. Through real-world scenarios, survey trends and practical guidance, attendees will strengthen their decision-making process and gain confidence in managing changing resident needs while meeting Iowa's assisted living requirements.

From Report to Resolution - An Inside Look with Iowa's Licensing Investigators
Kathleen Beebout and Michelle Roberts | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N

Go behind the scenes with Iowa's licensing investigators for an inside look at the professional licensing investigation process. Learn what happens after a complaint is filed, when reporting and self-reporting are required, how investigations are conducted and what licensed professionals can expect throughout the process. Investigators will also discuss common misconceptions, answer frequently asked questions and provide practical guidance to help nurses and nursing home administrators better understand their professional responsibilities. The session concludes with an extended Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions directly to the investigation team.

Keynote: The Sacred Acre: The Ed Thomas Story
Aaron Thomas | CEUs: 1.5 for All
Sponsored by Gallagher

Following the tragic murder of his father, legendary Iowa high school football coach Ed Thomas, Aaron Thomas was faced with an extraordinary challenge — to carry forward his father's legacy of leadership, resilience and compassion. In this powerful keynote, Aaron shares his family's remarkable journey of forgiveness, purpose and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through personal stories and timeless life lessons, attendees will be challenged to embrace the power of choice, lead with courage and become true difference-makers in their organizations, communities and personal lives.

Keynote: It's Not About Birth Year — The Evolution of Employees from A to Gen Z
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 2.0 for All
Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.

Instead of fueling the “us versus them” fire on your team, it’s time to explore the “why” behind the unique mindsets of our multigenerational workforce. Understand how Baby Boomers, GenX, Millennials and Gen Z were raised differently and the impact of their upbringing on the employer-employee relationship. We will also dispel myths about younger workers’ perceived lack of professionalism and work ethic. Magnet Culture’s award-winning generational lens provides valuable insights to navigate key challenges and opportunities presented by today’s new workforce. It’s time to create a workplace that more effectively manages multigenerational teams, as one-size leadership styles no longer fit all.  

The Power of Small Moments – Turning Good Care into Great Experiences
Chris Sund | CEU: 1.0 for All

In long-term care, the resident experience is shaped by small, everyday interactions. This session shows how communication, empathy and intentional connection can reduce anxiety, build trust and improve satisfaction for residents and families. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to enhance communication, remove friction and create meaningful experiences across every role in the organization.

Finding Value in all DISC Behavioral Styles
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Do you ever scratch your head at coworkers who do things the opposite way you would? Moving from judgment to understanding differences is a key to decreasing unnecessary conflict and improving team effectiveness.

Trauma-Informed Care - Eating Disorders in the Elderly
Barbara Speedling | CEU: 1.0 for All

Eating disorders and malnutrition are significant but often overlooked challenges among older adults, particularly in long-term care settings. This session provides a practical, common-sense approach to improving the dining experience by exploring the challenges of meeting a broad range of resident personalities and preferences. Attendees will examine the important role food plays in socialization and learn how engaging residents in planning, preparing and sharing meals can improve food satisfaction, nutrition and overall health.

Organizational Excellence Driven by the Baldrige Framework
Ron Smith and Karen Kiel Rosser | CEU: 1.0 for All

Every organization strives for excellence, but achieving lasting results requires more than isolated improvement initiatives. Join this session to learn how Mary Greeley Medical Center, a 2019 Baldrige Award recipient, uses the Baldrige Excellence Framework to align strategy, integrate performance improvement efforts and build a culture of continuous excellence. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical insights they can apply to strengthen their own organizations, regardless of where they are on their performance excellence journey.

Be Investigation Ready: What HR Needs to Know and Do Before the Charge Arrives
Mark Hudson | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, SS

HR leaders play a critical role in minimizing organizational risk through prompt, impartial and well-documented workplace investigations. This session will help HR professionals strengthen their approach to workplace investigations, improve documentation practices and prepare for complaints brought before enforcement agencies, such as the Civil Rights Commission. Through practical examples and real-world guidance, attendees will learn how to conduct defensible investigations, preserve critical evidence and respond effectively to agency inquiries while supporting fair and compliant workplace practices.

Keynote: Ignite Your Intuition
Kraig Karges | 2.0 CEUs for All
Sponsored by Brown Winick Law Firm

This one-of-a-kind session does more than simply amaze and entertain. Participants will learn memory techniques, test their intuition and discover how to tap into their subconscious minds to enhance creativity and decision making. Through hands-on, interactive activities, attendees will explore new ways to unlock their potential, strengthen personal confidence and achieve greater success.

Annual Business Meeting

The Stars of YOUR Show
Kim Warnecke | CEUs: 1.5 for All

This session focuses on employees, helping them feel like the stars of the show. We know there is a direct correlation between positive employee retention and improved resident outcomes. To retain employees and build a workplace where people want to work, we must first focus on our people so they can focus on the residents, patients and clients they serve. Through thought-provoking ideas, practical examples and real-world strategies, attendees will discover ways to strengthen workplace culture, increase employee engagement and create an environment where team members feel valued, connected and inspired to stay.

Successful Discharge Begins on Admission – Improve Outcomes through Effective Care Navigation and Live Analytics
Michele Self | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, SS

Successful discharge planning begins on the day of admission. This session explores how effective care navigation, live post-acute analytics and interdisciplinary collaboration can improve care planning, strengthen care transitions and reduce avoidable hospital readmissions. Attendees will learn how to leverage post-acute data, Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and patient-centered care coordination strategies to anticipate patient needs, improve communication across the care continuum and support better clinical and financial outcomes.

Growth and Sustainability: Defining Measurable Success in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for All

Long-term and post-acute care organizations are facing a defining moment. Demographic shifts, workforce pressures, rising expectations and financial uncertainty are forcing leaders to rethink what sustainable growth actually looks like. This session helps administrators and executives move beyond broad strategic planning language to define measurable success in practical, organizational terms. Attendees will explore how to align leadership, staff, resources and priorities around growth that is mission-centered, financially responsible and built for the realities of the years ahead.

Making Confident Level of Care Decisions
Amy Skelton | CEUs: 1.5 for ALMC, N, SS

Determining the appropriate level of care is one of the most important — and often most challenging — responsibilities in assisted living. This session takes a deeper dive into evaluating resident needs, recognizing when a change in level of care is warranted and documenting decisions that support quality care and regulatory compliance. Through real-world scenarios, survey trends and practical guidance, attendees will strengthen their decision-making process and gain confidence in managing changing resident needs while meeting Iowa's assisted living requirements.

Documentation That Protects Residents, Staff and Reimbursement
Tasha Janssen | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, SS

Effective documentation is more than a regulatory requirement. It is a critical tool for resident safety, legal protection, quality outcomes and financial sustainability. In this session, attendees will learn how documentation supports reimbursement, defends clinical decision-making, demonstrates compliance and reduces organizational risk. Through case studies and real-world examples, participants will identify common documentation pitfalls and learn strategies to strengthen clinical and operational documentation practices across their organizations.

The First 72 Hours – Managing a High-Risk New Admission
Tasha Janssen | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, SS

The first 72 hours following admission can significantly impact resident outcomes, satisfaction, hospital readmissions and regulatory compliance. This session focuses on best practices for identifying and managing high-risk residents during the critical transition into long-term care, skilled nursing or assisted living environments. Participants will explore interdisciplinary approaches to assessment, medication management, communication and care planning that improve safety and reduce avoidable complications.

Keynote: The Sacred Acre: The Ed Thomas Story
Aaron Thomas | CEUs: 1.5 for All
Sponsored by Gallagher

Following the tragic murder of his father, legendary Iowa high school football coach Ed Thomas, Aaron Thomas was faced with an extraordinary challenge — to carry forward his father's legacy of leadership, resilience and compassion. In this powerful keynote, Aaron shares his family's remarkable journey of forgiveness, purpose and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through personal stories and timeless life lessons, attendees will be challenged to embrace the power of choice, lead with courage and become true difference-makers in their organizations, communities and personal lives.

Keynote: It's Not About Birth Year — The Evolution of Employees from A to Gen Z
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 2.0 for All
Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.

Instead of fueling the “us versus them” fire on your team, it’s time to explore the “why” behind the unique mindsets of our multigenerational workforce. Understand how Baby Boomers, GenX, Millennials and Gen Z were raised differently and the impact of their upbringing on the employer-employee relationship. We will also dispel myths about younger workers’ perceived lack of professionalism and work ethic. Magnet Culture’s award-winning generational lens provides valuable insights to navigate key challenges and opportunities presented by today’s new workforce. It’s time to create a workplace that more effectively manages multigenerational teams, as one-size leadership styles no longer fit all.  

The Power of Small Moments – Turning Good Care into Great Experiences
Chris Sund | CEU: 1.0 for All

In long-term care, the resident experience is shaped by small, everyday interactions. This session shows how communication, empathy and intentional connection can reduce anxiety, build trust and improve satisfaction for residents and families. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to enhance communication, remove friction and create meaningful experiences across every role in the organization.

Finding Value in all DISC Behavioral Styles
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Do you ever scratch your head at coworkers who do things the opposite way you would? Moving from judgment to understanding differences is a key to decreasing unnecessary conflict and improving team effectiveness.

Trauma-Informed Care - Eating Disorders in the Elderly
Barbara Speedling | CEU: 1.0 for All

Eating disorders and malnutrition are significant but often overlooked challenges among older adults, particularly in long-term care settings. This session provides a practical, common-sense approach to improving the dining experience by exploring the challenges of meeting a broad range of resident personalities and preferences. Attendees will examine the important role food plays in socialization and learn how engaging residents in planning, preparing and sharing meals can improve food satisfaction, nutrition and overall health.

Organizational Excellence Driven by the Baldrige Framework
Ron Smith and Karen Kiel Rosser | CEU: 1.0 for All

Every organization strives for excellence, but achieving lasting results requires more than isolated improvement initiatives. Join this session to learn how Mary Greeley Medical Center, a 2019 Baldrige Award recipient, uses the Baldrige Excellence Framework to align strategy, integrate performance improvement efforts and build a culture of continuous excellence. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical insights they can apply to strengthen their own organizations, regardless of where they are on their performance excellence journey.

Keynote: Ignite Your Intuition
Kraig Karges | 2.0 CEUs for All
Sponsored by Brown Winick Law Firm

This one-of-a-kind session does more than simply amaze and entertain. Participants will learn memory techniques, test their intuition and discover how to tap into their subconscious minds to enhance creativity and decision making. Through hands-on, interactive activities, attendees will explore new ways to unlock their potential, strengthen personal confidence and achieve greater success.

Focus: A Practical Approach to Program Development and Quality Improvement
Carla Bacon Smith | CEUs: 1.5 for AP, ADM

This practical session will explore ways to revitalize programs and re-energize staff to meet the needs of a changing population. Attendees will learn how to focus their efforts and use a multifaceted approach to evaluate and strengthen their programs, one step at a time.

A Natural Connection: Programming to Promote Engagement in the Outdoor World
Carla Bacon Smith | CEU: 1.0 for AP, ADM, ALMC

Gardening and nature-based activities have wide appeal for older adults, including those living in long-term care settings. Horticulture programs offer therapeutic benefits while creating meaningful opportunities for learning, socialization and leisure skill development. This session will explore a successful, seasonally adaptable program that encourages residents to engage with the natural world through both group and individual activities.

Impact: Designing a Fall Prevention Program for Seniors
Carla Bacon Smith | CEUs: 1.5 for AP, ADM

Falls pose a big problem for seniors and those who care for them. One in four people over the age of 65 will experience a fall this year, which can have a significant impact on their health and quality of life. Expand your knowledge of fall risk and prevention while exploring techniques for implementing a multifaceted fall prevention program that can make a big impact on quality care and quality of life for the seniors you serve.

The Stars of YOUR Show
Kim Warnecke | CEUs: 1.5 for All

This session focuses on employees, helping them feel like the stars of the show. We know there is a direct correlation between positive employee retention and improved resident outcomes. To retain employees and build a workplace where people want to work, we must first focus on our people so they can focus on the residents, patients and clients they serve. Through thought-provoking ideas, practical examples and real-world strategies, attendees will discover ways to strengthen workplace culture, increase employee engagement and create an environment where team members feel valued, connected and inspired to stay.

Growth and Sustainability: Defining Measurable Success in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for All

Long-term and post-acute care organizations are facing a defining moment. Demographic shifts, workforce pressures, rising expectations and financial uncertainty are forcing leaders to rethink what sustainable growth actually looks like. This session helps administrators and executives move beyond broad strategic planning language to define measurable success in practical, organizational terms. Attendees will explore how to align leadership, staff, resources and priorities around growth that is mission-centered, financially responsible and built for the realities of the years ahead.

Keynote: The Sacred Acre: The Ed Thomas Story
Aaron Thomas | CEUs: 1.5 for All
Sponsored by Gallagher

Following the tragic murder of his father, legendary Iowa high school football coach Ed Thomas, Aaron Thomas was faced with an extraordinary challenge — to carry forward his father's legacy of leadership, resilience and compassion. In this powerful keynote, Aaron shares his family's remarkable journey of forgiveness, purpose and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through personal stories and timeless life lessons, attendees will be challenged to embrace the power of choice, lead with courage and become true difference-makers in their organizations, communities and personal lives.

Keynote: It's Not About Birth Year — The Evolution of Employees from A to Gen Z
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 2.0 for All
Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.

Instead of fueling the “us versus them” fire on your team, it’s time to explore the “why” behind the unique mindsets of our multigenerational workforce. Understand how Baby Boomers, GenX, Millennials and Gen Z were raised differently and the impact of their upbringing on the employer-employee relationship. We will also dispel myths about younger workers’ perceived lack of professionalism and work ethic. Magnet Culture’s award-winning generational lens provides valuable insights to navigate key challenges and opportunities presented by today’s new workforce. It’s time to create a workplace that more effectively manages multigenerational teams, as one-size leadership styles no longer fit all.  

The Power of Small Moments – Turning Good Care into Great Experiences
Chris Sund | CEU: 1.0 for All

In long-term care, the resident experience is shaped by small, everyday interactions. This session shows how communication, empathy and intentional connection can reduce anxiety, build trust and improve satisfaction for residents and families. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to enhance communication, remove friction and create meaningful experiences across every role in the organization.

Finding Value in all DISC Behavioral Styles
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Do you ever scratch your head at coworkers who do things the opposite way you would? Moving from judgment to understanding differences is a key to decreasing unnecessary conflict and improving team effectiveness.

Trauma-Informed Care - Eating Disorders in the Elderly
Barbara Speedling | CEU: 1.0 for All

Eating disorders and malnutrition are significant but often overlooked challenges among older adults, particularly in long-term care settings. This session provides a practical, common-sense approach to improving the dining experience by exploring the challenges of meeting a broad range of resident personalities and preferences. Attendees will examine the important role food plays in socialization and learn how engaging residents in planning, preparing and sharing meals can improve food satisfaction, nutrition and overall health.

Organizational Excellence Driven by the Baldrige Framework
Ron Smith and Karen Kiel Rosser | CEU: 1.0 for All

Every organization strives for excellence, but achieving lasting results requires more than isolated improvement initiatives. Join this session to learn how Mary Greeley Medical Center, a 2019 Baldrige Award recipient, uses the Baldrige Excellence Framework to align strategy, integrate performance improvement efforts and build a culture of continuous excellence. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical insights they can apply to strengthen their own organizations, regardless of where they are on their performance excellence journey.

Keynote: Ignite Your Intuition
Kraig Karges | 2.0 CEUs for All
Sponsored by Brown Winick Law Firm

This one-of-a-kind session does more than simply amaze and entertain. Participants will learn memory techniques, test their intuition and discover how to tap into their subconscious minds to enhance creativity and decision making. Through hands-on, interactive activities, attendees will explore new ways to unlock their potential, strengthen personal confidence and achieve greater success.

Home Health and Home Care Survey Readiness: Top Deficiencies and Conditions of Participation
Jennifer Osburn | CEU: 1.0 for HH, ADM, N

Survey deficiencies can have a significant impact on home health agencies, but many of the most common citations are preventable. This session examines the top CMS survey deficiencies, including frequent findings related to medications and coordination of care, and reviews real-world examples of what surveyors identified before issuing citations. Attendees will leave with practical strategies their agencies can implement to proactively reduce risk and maintain ongoing compliance.

OASIS Based Quality Measures in HHQRP and HHVBP
Jennifer Osburn | CEU: 1.0 for HH, ADM, N

In this session, attendees will learn how the Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS)-based quality measures used in Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) performance are calculated, what data is included and excluded and which factors are used in risk adjustment. We will review the item-specific guidance for each OASIS item used in the calculation of these measures so attendees can strengthen data collection practices, improve performance and maximize reimbursement.

The Reimbursement Engine: Medicare Payment Updates for Home Health and Home Care
Jennifer Osburn | CEUs: 1.0 for HH, ADM, N

Keeping up with Medicare reimbursement changes is essential for home health agencies seeking to maximize performance and payment. This session provides an overview of key Medicare payment updates for 2026, including regulatory changes, Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) measures, HHCAHPS survey updates and the relationship between Home Health Quality Reporting Program (HHQRP) measures, Care Compare and reimbursement. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how quality measures influence payment and identify opportunities to strengthen agency performance.

The Stars of YOUR Show
Kim Warnecke | CEUs: 1.5 for All

This session focuses on employees, helping them feel like the stars of the show. We know there is a direct correlation between positive employee retention and improved resident outcomes. To retain employees and build a workplace where people want to work, we must first focus on our people so they can focus on the residents, patients and clients they serve. Through thought-provoking ideas, practical examples and real-world strategies, attendees will discover ways to strengthen workplace culture, increase employee engagement and create an environment where team members feel valued, connected and inspired to stay.

Growth and Sustainability: Defining Measurable Success in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for All

Long-term and post-acute care organizations are facing a defining moment. Demographic shifts, workforce pressures, rising expectations and financial uncertainty are forcing leaders to rethink what sustainable growth actually looks like. This session helps administrators and executives move beyond broad strategic planning language to define measurable success in practical, organizational terms. Attendees will explore how to align leadership, staff, resources and priorities around growth that is mission-centered, financially responsible and built for the realities of the years ahead.

Keynote: The Sacred Acre: The Ed Thomas Story
Aaron Thomas | CEUs: 1.5 for All
Sponsored by Gallagher

Following the tragic murder of his father, legendary Iowa high school football coach Ed Thomas, Aaron Thomas was faced with an extraordinary challenge — to carry forward his father's legacy of leadership, resilience and compassion. In this powerful keynote, Aaron shares his family's remarkable journey of forgiveness, purpose and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through personal stories and timeless life lessons, attendees will be challenged to embrace the power of choice, lead with courage and become true difference-makers in their organizations, communities and personal lives.

Keynote: It's Not About Birth Year — The Evolution of Employees from A to Gen Z
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 2.0 for All
Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.

Instead of fueling the “us versus them” fire on your team, it’s time to explore the “why” behind the unique mindsets of our multigenerational workforce. Understand how Baby Boomers, GenX, Millennials and Gen Z were raised differently and the impact of their upbringing on the employer-employee relationship. We will also dispel myths about younger workers’ perceived lack of professionalism and work ethic. Magnet Culture’s award-winning generational lens provides valuable insights to navigate key challenges and opportunities presented by today’s new workforce. It’s time to create a workplace that more effectively manages multigenerational teams, as one-size leadership styles no longer fit all.  

The Power of Small Moments – Turning Good Care into Great Experiences
Chris Sund | CEU: 1.0 for All

In long-term care, the resident experience is shaped by small, everyday interactions. This session shows how communication, empathy and intentional connection can reduce anxiety, build trust and improve satisfaction for residents and families. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to enhance communication, remove friction and create meaningful experiences across every role in the organization.

Finding Value in all DISC Behavioral Styles
Cara Silletto | CEUs: 1.5 for All

Do you ever scratch your head at coworkers who do things the opposite way you would? Moving from judgment to understanding differences is a key to decreasing unnecessary conflict and improving team effectiveness.

Trauma-Informed Care - Eating Disorders in the Elderly
Barbara Speedling | CEUs: 1.0 for All

Eating disorders and malnutrition are significant but often overlooked challenges among older adults, particularly in long-term care settings. This session provides a practical, common-sense approach to improving the dining experience by exploring the challenges of meeting a broad range of resident personalities and preferences. Attendees will examine the important role food plays in socialization and learn how engaging residents in planning, preparing and sharing meals can improve food satisfaction, nutrition and overall health.

Organizational Excellence Driven by the Baldrige Framework
Ron Smith and Karen Kiel Rosser | CEU: 1.0 for All

Every organization strives for excellence, but achieving lasting results requires more than isolated improvement initiatives. Join this session to learn how Mary Greeley Medical Center, a 2019 Baldrige Award recipient, uses the Baldrige Excellence Framework to align strategy, integrate performance improvement efforts and build a culture of continuous excellence. Through real-world examples and lessons learned, attendees will gain practical insights they can apply to strengthen their own organizations, regardless of where they are on their performance excellence journey.

The Future of Value-Based Care: What Nursing Home Operators Need to Know for 2027
Eric Palm and Keith Persinger | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM

This session will provide a practical, operator-focused look at today's value-based landscape and what to expect as CMS continues its shift toward outcome-based payment models through 2027. Attendees will gain a better understanding of current and emerging models, including MSSP, ACO REACH, I-SNPs and the new LEAD Model, while exploring how evolving payment structures will influence referrals, care coordination, operational strategy and financial performance. Participants will leave with a practical framework for evaluating which value-based strategies best align with their organization's goals, market and capabilities.

Keynote: Ignite Your Intuition
Kraig Karges | 2.0 CEUs for All
Sponsored by Brown Winick Law Firm

This one-of-a-kind session does more than simply amaze and entertain. Participants will learn memory techniques, test their intuition and discover how to tap into their subconscious minds to enhance creativity and decision making. Through hands-on, interactive activities, attendees will explore new ways to unlock their potential, strengthen personal confidence and achieve greater success.

Annual Business Meeting

Balancing Home Life and Safety in Long-Term Care Settings
Missy Travis | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, N, DH, ALMC

Creating a homelike environment while maintaining a safe and compliant care setting is an ongoing challenge for long-term care providers. This session explores the key components of effective Environment of Care (EOC) rounds and provides practical guidance for evaluating safety, regulatory compliance and resident quality of life. Attendees will learn how to develop a customized rounding tool, apply current regulations and best practices and assess the effectiveness of their organization's EOC program.

The Stars of YOUR Show
Kim Warnecke | CEUs: 1.5 for All

This session focuses on employees, helping them feel like the stars of the show. We know there is a direct correlation between positive employee retention and improved resident outcomes. To retain employees and build a workplace where people want to work, we must first focus on our people so they can focus on the residents, patients and clients they serve. Through thought-provoking ideas, practical examples and real-world strategies, attendees will discover ways to strengthen workplace culture, increase employee engagement and create an environment where team members feel valued, connected and inspired to stay.

Successful Discharge Begins on Admission – Improve Outcomes through Effective Care Navigation and Live Analytics
Michele Self | CEUs: 1.0 for ADM, N, SS

Successful discharge planning begins on the day of admission. This session explores how effective care navigation, live post-acute analytics and interdisciplinary collaboration can improve care planning, strengthen care transitions and reduce avoidable hospital readmissions. Attendees will learn how to leverage post-acute data, Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and patient-centered care coordination strategies to anticipate patient needs, improve communication across the care continuum and support better clinical and financial outcomes.

Growth and Sustainability: Defining Measurable Success in Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing
Avi Olitzky | CEUs: 1.0 for All

Long-term and post-acute care organizations are facing a defining moment. Demographic shifts, workforce pressures, rising expectations and financial uncertainty are forcing leaders to rethink what sustainable growth actually looks like. This session helps administrators and executives move beyond broad strategic planning language to define measurable success in practical, organizational terms. Attendees will explore how to align leadership, staff, resources and priorities around growth that is mission-centered, financially responsible and built for the realities of the years ahead.

Leading Through Transition: Strategic Leadership for the Next Decade of Long-Term Care
Avi Olitzky | CEU: 1.0 for ADM, ALMC, N, DH

Leadership transitions can either strengthen an organization or expose every unresolved weakness within it. As long-term care continues to evolve, administrators and senior leaders must be prepared to guide teams through uncertainty, preserve trust and maintain operational momentum during periods of change. This session combines strategic vision with practical transition leadership, helping participants anticipate leadership gaps, communicate effectively during change and build cultures that remain steady even when roles, expectations and external pressures shift.

Making Confident Level of Care Decisions
Amy Skelton | CEUs: 1.5 for ALMC, N, SS

Determining the appropriate level of care is one of the most important — and often most challenging — responsibilities in assisted living. This session takes a deeper dive into evaluating resident needs, recognizing when a change in level of care is warranted and documenting decisions that support quality care and regulatory compliance. Through real-world scenarios, survey trends and practical guidance, attendees will strengthen their decision-making process and gain confidence in managing changing resident needs while meeting Iowa's assisted living requirements.

Data, Deadlines and Dollars: Mastering the SNF QRP
Amy Miller | CEUs: 1.5 for ADM, N, DH

The Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program (SNF QRP) plays a critical role in regulatory compliance, public reporting and Medicare reimbursement for nursing homes. This session will provide a foundational understanding of the SNF QRP, including its purpose, structure and impact on facility operations and payment. Attendees will review the primary data sources used within the program, understand the three compliance thresholds facilities must meet to avoid Medicare payment penalties and identify practical steps to monitor compliance, support accurate reporting and reduce financial and regulatory risk.

Keynote: The Sacred Acre: The Ed Thomas Story
Aaron Thomas | CEUs: 1.5 for All
Sponsored by Gallagher

Following the tragic murder of his father, legendary Iowa high school football coach Ed Thomas, Aaron Thomas was faced with an extraordinary challenge — to carry forward his father's legacy of leadership, resilience and compassion. In this powerful keynote, Aaron shares his family's remarkable journey of forgiveness, purpose and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through personal stories and timeless life lessons, attendees will be challenged to embrace the power of choice, lead with courage and become true difference-makers in their organizations, communities and personal lives.