Previous Events

This presentation, presented by Coach Jim Stroker, explores how perspective and response shape effective leadership and outcomes. Grounded in first principles, it integrates the E+R=O framework—emphasizing that while events are uncontrollable, responses drive results. Drawing on lessons like the Boeing checklist, Jimmy Carter’s leadership, and marginal gains, it highlights discipline, teamwork, and intentional planning. Guided by beginning with the end in mind, it reinforces that priorities only matter when they are clearly defined, owned, and consistently scheduled.

This panel explores how smart technology is reshaping healthcare delivery across Native communities through intentional design and construction. Experts will discuss integrating telehealth infrastructure, data systems, and patient-centered design into new and renovated facilities. The session highlights practical strategies for building scalable, culturally aligned healthcare environments that improve access, operational efficiency, and long-term community health outcomes.

Rising mental health needs require early intervention and culturally grounded solutions. Prevention-focused programming, access to behavioral health services, and workforce shortages impacting care delivery all play a part. Panelists will share community-based models that strengthen resilience, expand support services, and improve outcomes for Native American families.

This panel will examine the current challenges in osteoarthritis (OA) care – the limitations of treatments that manage symptoms without addressing the underlying joint damage, and the need for new therapeutic approaches. Panelists will offer a high-level look at emerging regenerative medicine strategies in development and discuss why community perspectives belong at the center of clinical research and care planning, not at its margins. The discussion will surface key themes from community listening sessions held to inform a culturally relevant, community-informed approach to future OA clinical trial design. Particular care has been taken to center the perspectives and lived experiences of Tribal communities and Native American partners across the United States, so that future engagement and research reflect a genuine range of voices and priorities. Throughout, the panel will return to the role of partnership, trust, and sustained engagement in shaping the future of OA treatment, research, and equitable access to care.

Tribal healthcare professionals gather for a candid discussion on the realities shaping care delivery today. The discussion centers on funding and billing challenges, including reimbursement, sustainability, and IHS and third-party payor complexities. Participants also examine federal and state policy impacts, regulatory pressures, and advocacy priorities, alongside broader system issues such as workforce capacity, infrastructure, and maintaining culturally grounded, patient-centered care while strengthening Tribal healthcare systems.

Long-term planning is essential for resilient Tribal health systems. This panel explores how infrastructure development and financial architecture work together to support sustainable growth. Speakers will discuss facility planning, funding opportunities, and the financial systems that enable expansion, including strong accounting practices, governance clarity, and strategic modeling that helps Tribal health programs responsibly expand services while protecting long-term access and sovereignty.

As Native populations age, the growing demand for long-term care necessitates a shift toward robust assisted living, memory care, and home health options. Success depends on securing sustainable funding, expanding workforce capacity, and delivering culturally respectful services. Ultimately, the priority is to support elders while preserving their dignity, independence, and vital connections to family, culture, and community.

Strong tribal public health systems are built on prevention, active community engagement, and culturally responsive strategies. Nutrition, maternal and child health, chronic disease management, and substance safety are all key to advance long-term community wellness. Join in on this focused discussion on harm reduction strategies that promote safe medication storage and proper disposal through family-centered education and practical prevention tools. Collaboration among schools, tribal agencies, and community partners strengthens trust, reduces preventable harm, and supports measurable improvements in population health outcomes.

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