MHCA LTC Leadership Summit
(formerly MHCA Mid-Year Conference & Lobby Day)
Developing the Next Generation of Long-Term Care Leaders
February 24-26, 2026
Double Tree Hotel, Jefferson City
MHCA Members’ Only Event
The MHCA LTC Leadership Summit is designed to develop the next generation of long-term care leaders. Through targeted education, exploration of hot topics in LTC, and hands-on advocacy at the Capitol, participants gain the skills, confidence, and connections they need to lead effectively and make a lasting impact in the field.
Proposed Agenda and Sessions:
(click on the date to view each day’s agenda and hotel information)
February 24, 2026
9:00 am
9:30 am – 11:30 am
Check-In / Coffee / Networking
“Leadership and Branding in Long Term Care“
2.0 Administrative Hours
This session equips current and future long-term care leaders to build strong personal and organizational brands that enhance visibility, trust, and differentiation in a competitive market. By connecting branding and marketing to real outcomes—such as improved recruitment, retention, and community trust—participants learn practical strategies to strengthen professional presence and organizational reputation.
Speaker: Chris Cheetham West
12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Lunch and AHCA Regulatory Update
1.0 Administrative Hour
This session delivers a timely political update, offering attendees clear insights into current policy developments affecting our industry. Participants will gain practical context on legislative trends, advocacy priorities, and how these shifts could impact organizational strategy and operations.
Speaker: Rikki Holmes, AHCA
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
“Five Stars, One Mission: Using CMS Data to Drive Better Resident Outcomes”
1.5 Patient Care Hours
The CMS Five-Star Quality Rating System is more than a public score—it is a practical tool for Quality Assurance and QAPI. This session explains how ratings are calculated (surveys, staffing, and quality measures) and why administrators must understand them to strengthen SNF operations and improve resident quality of care and quality of life.
Speaker – Nicky Martin, QIPMO
3:45 pm – 5:15 pm
“Building Bridges: Effective Legislative Engagement and Advocacy for Future LTC Leaders”
1.5 Administrative Hours
As future leaders in long-term care, your voice matters in shaping policies that impact residents, staff, and the broader healthcare system. This session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to engage effectively with legislators and policymakers
Speaker: Nikki Strong
February 25, 2026
8:00 am – 9:00 am
Breakfast and Education Session
“The Power of Belonging: Why Our Association Matters and How You Can Make a Difference”
1.0 Administrative Hour
This session will share why the association is essential to advancing the LTC industry and supporting its members. It will explore the value of connection, collaboration, and shared purpose, and how these elements strengthen both individual careers and the collective voice of our profession. This session is your opportunity to connect with leadership, gain insight into MHCA’s vision, and find your place in shaping its future.
Speakers Meghan Travis Henderson and Chris McBratney
9:00 am
Capitol Visits
12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Lunch
1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
“The Impact of Accurate MDS Completion on Quality Care and Sustainable Financial Performance”
1.5 Patient Care Hours
This session is designed for emerging leaders to understand how precise Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments directly influence reimbursement under the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM). In addition, accurate MDS completion is not just a compliance requirement, it is the foundation for determining a facility’s case mix index (CMI), which drives revenue and financial stability.
Speakers: Forvis Mazars
3:15 pm – 5:15 pm
“Why People Stay: The Leadership Behaviors That Create Commitment in Long-Term Care or Sustaining Teams in Emotionally Demanding Work”
2.0 Administrative Hours
This interactive session shows long-term care leaders how emotionally intelligent leadership fosters trust, stability, and commitment. Participants will gain practical tools and insights to create environments where people feel valued and choose to stay and grow.
Speaker: Rae Lyon
6:30 pm
Dinner with Board and Sponsors
February 26, 2026
8:00 am
Light Breakfast / Networking
10:00 am
MHCA Board Meeting
1.5 Administrative Hours
12:00 pm
Lunch
Hotel Information
You can book your room(s) at the DoubleTree using the link below: (cut off day – January 24, 2026)
https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/jefdtdt-90u-90475936-8bad-4dd4-a930-e222bd4c076e
We look forward to seeing you at the Summit!