Welcome to the 2026 AHHA Annual Conference — the premier gathering for healthcare leaders, partners, and innovators from across Alaska.
Join us to learn from industry experts, share proven resources, and network with like-minded professionals dedicated to elevating care throughout our state. We are excited to host a dynamic lineup of speakers tackling pressing issues in Alaskan healthcare today—from the nuances of ethical data use and patient safety to the evolving legal and legislative landscape and the evolving demands of leadership.
SPEAKERS
& AGENDA
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
7:30 | Breakfast
8:30 | Welcome & Opening Remarks
8:45 | Keynote Presentation:
Jon Carmichael | The Eclipse Mindset: How to Break Barriers, Adapt, Innovate and Create History Jon Carmichael’s journey to capturing one of history’s most breathtaking images of a solar eclipse wasn’t just about photography—it was about perspective, audacity, and the relentless pursuit of possibility. In this inspiring keynote, Jon shares how embracing The Eclipse Mindset—one that sees beyond obstacles and reimagines limitations—allowed him to turn uncertainty into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Through captivating storytelling and stunning visuals, Jon takes audiences on his journey from a childhood dream to a high-stakes mission at 39,000 feet, where teamwork, intuition, and bold thinking led to a breakthrough moment. Just like an eclipse reveals a hidden beauty that’s only visible for a fleeting moment, Jon shows how our biggest opportunities often emerge from the shadows of challenge and change.
10:15 | Keynote Presentation:
Michael Bassett | SVP of Government Relations, AHCA/NCAL
11:30 | Networking Lunch &
AHHA 2026 Healthcare Champion Awards
1:30 | Keynote Presentation:
RaDonda Vaught | When Seconds Change Lives: Patient Safety and System Breakdowns Ms. Vaught’s case made headlines in March 2022 when a jury found her guilty of criminally negligent homicide and gross neglect of an impaired adult in the death of a patient to whom she accidentally gave the wrong medication. She will speak on the impact this sentinel event has had on her life and profession, along with the implications of the legal actions that followed. A passionate advocate for safety and improvement, her story will be one that is not easily forgotten.
3:00 | Concurrent Sessions
Further speaker and session details will be available shortly!
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Hall, Render, Killian, Heath & Lyman
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Continued Conversation with RaDonda Vaught
5:00-7:00 | Reception & Trade Fair
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
7:30 | Breakfast
8:30 | Opening Remarks
9:00 | Keynote Presentation:
Dr. Anu Arasu | The Biology of Possibility: Wired to Evolve. Built to Lead. How do we thrive, lead, and contribute sustainably whilst carrying invisible stress? In this powerful keynote, Dr. Anu Arasu — medical doctor with two decades of experience in helping people go from breakdown to breakthrough, — unpacks the hidden biology behind what it really takes to unlock lasting potential in today’s fast-changing world. Through compelling science, real-world stories, and practical frameworks, Dr Anu introduces a practical, human-centered framework built on three core biological principles: regulation, coherence, and plasticity. You’ll discover how to shift your internal operating system — and your team culture — from reactive to regenerative. Whether you're navigating AI, leading ERGs, or driving workplace transformation, this keynote offers a clear roadmap to create cultures where performance doesn’t come at the cost of health.
10:45 | Gubernatorial Candidate Panel
Participant details available following the August 18 primary.
11:45 | Closing Comments
12:00 | Buffet lunch served with "grab-and-go" option
HOTEL | VENUE
AHHA has a discounted room block reserved at the conference venue, Alyeska Resort. Alyeska is located in Girdwood, just 40 miles south of Anchorage, and is easily accessible by car or ride service.
Valet parking is available for hotel guests at $27 for overnight parking and $15 for daily events. Free parking is also available in satellite lots adjacent to the property.
SPONSORS
For sponsorship inquiries, please contact Jann Mylet at jmylet@alaskahha.org.
AWARDS
Each year, the AHHA Healthcare Champion Awards recognize individuals and teams taking progressive and effective steps to improve patient care and outcomes. Awardees will be celebrated at a special ceremony at the annual conference.
The 2026 nominations closed in June; awardees will be announced shortly.
