With record-setting attendance, this year’s Convention & Trade Show was a tremendous success.

• Over 350 members gathered in Roanoke to spend time with colleagues and peers, network, learn, and celebrate 70 years of VHCA-VCAL.
• Over 350 members gathered in Roanoke.

Keynote speaker highlights included:

• Jim “The Rookie” Morris inspired attendees with a great message about surrounding yourself with the very best and that everyone has their job to do and talents to use. Remember, if everyone pitched, there would be no hits.
• Mark Parkinson, president and CEO of AHCA/NCAL, praised Virginia for its advocacy results and laid out AHCA’s playbook for pushing back against the proposed CMS staffing mandate with grassroots support from members. 
• Debbie Meade reviewed numerous regulatory changes and emphasized the importance of continuous quality improvement, especially through the use of the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Awards Program.
• Lt. Joe Torrillo, a New York City Fire Department veteran and survivor of 9/11, commended attendees for fighting the battle of the unknown during the COVID-19 pandemic with the valor of the 9/11 rescuers.
• Craig Deao shared workforce retention strategies and where leaders should focus to keep the best talent.

Other highlights included:

• Great speakers offered attendees the chance to earn 12+ hours of NAB-approved continuing education.
• The Trade Show was packed with attendees and over 90+ exhibitors who enjoyed discussing products and services to benefit residents and staff.
• Fundraising for the Regirer Nursing Scholarships to help offer future scholarships to individuals who want to further their nursing education.
• Election of the association officers and election of new members of the Board of Directors for the 2023 term.