Leaders from the Northeast Ohio Area Health Education Center (AHEC) network joined colleagues from across the nation at the 2026 National AHEC Organization (NAO) Leadership Forum, held July 14–15 in Washington, D.C. The annual conference brought together AHEC leaders to strengthen leadership capacity, share innovative practices, and advocate for policies that support the nation’s healthcare workforce.
Representing Northeast Ohio were:
- Rebecca Brabander, M.S., M.Ed., assistant director, Northeast Ohio Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Program
- Chelsey Palmer, BSN, RN, LSN, director, Eastern Ohio AHEC
- Karen Abel Jepsen, OCPC, director, Canton Regional Area Health Education Center
The two-day Leadership Forum focused on preparing AHEC leaders to navigate the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape while reinforcing the vital role AHECs play in developing a strong healthcare workforce. Participants engaged in national discussions centered on leadership development, healthcare workforce policy, advocacy, and strategies for effectively communicating AHEC’s impact to policymakers, community partners, and other stakeholders.
The conference featured keynote presentations from national healthcare and policy experts, interactive leadership workshops, peer-to-peer learning opportunities, and updates on the federal policy and funding environment affecting healthcare workforce programs. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in Congressional meetings on Capitol Hill, where they met with legislators and staff to advocate for continued investment in Area Health Education Centers and the communities they serve.
“The Leadership Forum provided an exceptional opportunity to collaborate with AHEC leaders from across the country and gain valuable insight into national workforce priorities,” said Maureen A. Drummond, Northeast Ohio AHEC director. “The knowledge, relationships, and advocacy experience our regional leaders gained will strengthen our ability to prepare future healthcare professionals and address workforce shortages throughout Northeast Ohio.”
The Northeast Ohio AHEC Program remains committed to developing a healthcare workforce that is prepared to serve rural, urban, and underserved communities through education, community partnerships, and workforce development initiatives. Participation in national leadership events ensures that regional programs remain connected to emerging best practices and federal priorities while continuing to advocate for the health needs of Ohio underserved and disadvantaged communities.