ACHE Congress 2016

By: Tyler Bennett

The University of Iowa’s Master of Health Administration candidates recently attended the 2016 American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Congress on Healthcare Leadership in Chicago. This year’s theme was “Leading Well” and was held at the Hyatt Regency Chicago from March 14-17. As student members, we were able to attend speed networking events where we had the opportunity to meet students from other healthcare programs, as well as other ACHE members. In addition to networking opportunities, Congress also offered a lot of intriguing information about hot topics in the healthcare field, along with what health systems are doing to better position their organizations moving forward.

One of the seminars that we were able to attend focused on the fellowship application process as we transition to the new National Council of Administrative Fellowships (NCAF) application, which hopes to standardize the application process. Additional session topics included promoting operational excellence and a culture of safety in healthcare organizations, and leadership development that focused on leading a multigenerational workforce. Students attended the annual Iowa HMP alumni reception Tuesday evening, where the room buzzed with excitement at the introduction and welcoming of Dr. Daniel Gentry, PhD, MHA, who will become the program director beginning this fall.

Congress was a great experience for all who attended, especially for the many of us that were first time attendees. A major advantage we received by attending Congress was the ability to expand our networks and speak with current leaders from across the county, and even the world, who traveled to Chicago to promote the exchange of new ideas in our field. Having networking opportunities and receptions specifically designed to facilitate interaction, both with other students and current administrators, was conducive to our learning during the week. As the healthcare arena witnesses more consolidations and mergers, the opportunities for us to work with our peers in other parts of the country will continue to grow.

Speaking for myself and fellow students, attending ACHE Congress is a highlight each and every year for the University of Iowa students. We are all appreciative to be able to represent not only our program and school, but also our alumni who have helped pave the way for the recognition and respect the University of Iowa Master of Health Administration program has today. This year was a complete success, and we are already looking forward to attending next year!