Emerging Leaders Summit


2026 Emerging Leaders Summit. The next generation of healthcare. Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026 | NJHA Conference Center, Princeton

Registration: 8:15 a.m.
Event: 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $149

Join emerging healthcare professionals from across New Jersey for a high-energy day of insights, connections and career building inspiration at the New Jersey Hospital Association’s Emerging Leaders Summit.

 

HIGHLIGHTS

Leadership Insights

Hear from top healthcare executives on what it takes to lead today—and tomorrow.

Dynamic Panels

Fast-paced discussions on innovation, career growth and the future of healthcare.

High-Value Networking

Meet peers, mentors and senior leaders who can help open new doors.

Exclusive Access

Members-only program, capped off with a joint reception held in conjunction with the NJHA Annual Meeting – a who’s who of healthcare leadership in New Jersey.

Complimentary Headshots

Let our photo pro update your headshot to build your personal brand.

Networking Lunch & Refreshment Breaks

Connect with peers over delicious fare from the catering team.

 

REGISTRATION

The first tip for successful networking: Be present!

REGISTER NOW

 

AGENDA

8:15 - 9:00 REGISTRATION & PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS

9:00 - 9:15 WELCOME

Cathleen Bennett
Cathleen Bennett
President and CEO,
NJHA

9:15 - 10:30 FORGING YOUR PATH IN HEALTHCARE

Our panelists will discuss their career trajectories, highlighting their paths into health policy, advocacy and healthcare administration. They will share perspectives on “following your compass” and offer insights on openness, adaptability and effective communication.

Panelists:

Sister Patricia Codey, SC, Esq.
Sister Patricia Codey, SC, Esq.
President
Catholic HealthCare Partnership of NJ

Sam Bayoumy, P.T., MBA
Sam Bayoumy, P.T., MBA
President
Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation

10:30 - 11:00 BREAK & PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS

11:00 - 12:00 EXECUTIVE INSIGHTS

Every day presents opportunities to lead, and each one can be a stepping-stone from peer to leader. Hear transformation stories from leaders who seized these moments by showing up, staying curious and following opportunities into their current roles. They will also discuss how they are navigating the seismic changes and challenges in healthcare today, guiding their organizations through uncertainty while envisioning and preparing for a healthier future.

Panelists:

Jim Andrews, MHL
Jim Andrews, MHL
President & CEO
Deborah Heart and Lung Center

Aaron Chang, FACHE
Aaron Chang, FACHE
President
Jefferson Health – East

12:00 - 12:30 NETWORKING LUNCH

12:30 - 1:15 COMMUNICATIONS & INFLUENCE

Learn how social media shapes your digital footprint and why it matters for your professional reputation, job prospects, personal security, and how others perceive your character and credibility. This session will explore how consciously curating your online presence is essential for career growth.

Speaker:

Judith M. Persichilli, RN, BSN, MA
Karen Kessler
President & CEO
Kessler PR Group

1:15 - 1:30 BREAK

1:30 - 2:00 NJHA ANNUAL MEETING

Find more information about the Annual Meeting here

2:00 - 3:30 CHAIR'S RECEPTION