Registration is live & sponsorship opportunities are now available.
Milestone event
Celebrate Leadership Excellence in Healthcare
The NCHL Gail L. Warden Leadership Excellence Award honors individuals whose vision, integrity, and impact have advanced healthcare leadership and organizational performance.
Each year, more than 250 distinguished leaders from across the healthcare ecosystem gather to recognize this year’s awardee and the recipient of the NCHL International Healthcare Leadership Award.
In 2026, we convene at Chicago’s iconic Old Post Office for an inspiring evening of connection, recognition, and celebration—honoring those shaping the future of healthcare leadership.
Join us in Chicago on Tuesday, November 17, 2026!
Award Nominations
Nominations for the Gail L. Warden Leadership Excellence Award will be accepted beginning April 15, 2026, through May 29, 2026.
Nominations for the International Leadership Excellence Award will be accepted beginning in June 2026. Exact dates will be announced soon.
The awards
The Gail L. Warden Leadership Excellence Award was named in honor of Gail L. Warden, founding chairman of NCHL, president emeritus of Henry Ford Health System, and one of healthcare’s foremost leaders. This distinction recognizes his remarkable accomplishments as an innovator in healthcare delivery, community wellness, and health policy, and as a mentor and inspiration to future generations. This enduring tribute is in recognition of Mr. Warden’s leadership legacy. This award is given to an individual who has made significant and lasting leadership contributions to the health and healthcare field.
The NCHL International Healthcare Leadership Award honors a leader whose commitment, values, and contributions have made a significant and positive impact on the provision of healthcare across international borders.
Who attends
More than sixty (60) percent of attendees in 2025 were C-suite executives, senior vice presidents, or senior directors at their organization.
2026 Sponsors
