Harness the Momentum: GHCA Summer Convention 2026
Tidal power is constant, reliable, and immensely powerful.
This June, the GHCA Summer Convention & Exhibition invites you to Feel the Surge of professional growth and strategic alignment.
Located at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, this year’s theme—Tidal Power—reflects the steady, rising influence of our provider community.
Why Attend?
It is ALL IN PERSON ONLY, and you won’t want to miss a moment of this Summer Convention. Every moment is designed to provide you leadership and industry insights along with practical, actionable takeaways designed to elevate your facility's quality measures and power your team through the current regulatory climate. See below for just a few of the highlights:
- The Hard-Hitting Regulatory Tidal Shifts: We are getting direct, actionable strategies on how to handle CMS' new claims-based initiative on falls, severe Medicaid reimbursement shifts, and crucial updates straight from the Fire Marshal, HFRD, and DCH.
- The Future of LTC Tech: There is a massive opening session panel on riding the AI wave in nursing homes—covering how to use it for resident safety and staffing efficiency while protecting ourselves from legal, HIPAA, and compliance risks.
- The Financial Wins: AHCA’s Reimbursement Policy and Population Health VP, Nisha Hammel will provide an update on payment models and the future of LTC. Reimbursement and technology experts, Michael Sciacca, COO and Vincent Fidele of Zimmet will provide an insightful update on Medicaid. There is a 15-minute power session will show us exactly how to tap into Georgia’s CMP Grant Funding pool so we stop leaving money on the table, and Grant Thomas, Senior Advisor for CMS will provide CMS updates as well!
- Incredible Networking & Team Bonding: From the high-energy Pickleball mixer (complete with world-class coaches, free drinks, and tacos) to the Luminaries Luncheon and Welcome Reception, the connections we will make here are unmatched and will help you build a network of support to carry you through the rest of the year and beyond. Our new friends from PACE will join us too, including Shawn Bloom, President and CEO of the National PACE Association.
- Leadership Development: What shapes a great leader? Harvey Mackay says it’s three things: the books you read, the people you meet, and the experiences you live, and we are making sure you have access to all of them! Jason Lesandrini will cover 5 Star Outcomes and the Human Connection. Then get ready for a deep dive into workforce development, quality improvement and the masterclass insights powering the future of long-term care. Join George Hunt to unpack the exact books, mentors, and pivotal moments that fueled top LTC executives’ success.
- It's Natural Networking: Whether you’re engaged in discussion in the spacious general session room, engaged in conversation while sipping on coffee in the exhibitor foyer, on the Pickleball courts, learning the game and competing with new and old friends, or at our Sunday Welcome Reception or It's Five O'Clock Somewhere pool party, build the relationships that sustain your facility year-round. We don't have a golf event, but there is a beautiful on site golf course, The Golf Club of Amelia if you want to play a round.
- The Ultimate Ripple Effect: Purchase a raffle ticket for the GHCA Education Foundation. Your support creates a wave of opportunity for future LTC professionals—and might just win you a $5,000 dream vacation!
Experience the flow of excellence. See you at the shore!
This program is approved by the Georgia State Boards of Long Term Health Care Administrator and Nursing for 20.5 hours. NAB hours (national approval) are also approved for 18.5 CE hours.
Why Your Leadership Needs This In-Person Only "Surge"
The weight of long-term care leadership is heavy, and professional isolation is real. The GHCA Summer Convention is designed to be the "Tidal Power" that recharges your batteries for the year ahead.
- Shared Resilience: There is a unique healing power in being among peers who truly understand the pressures of workforce and regulatory demands. These in-person bonds are the support systems that help leaders stay in the industry longer.
- Hands-On Innovation: See, touch, and test the latest solutions in our Exhibition Hall. You can't demo a transformation through a browser window.
- The Ritz-Carlton Experience: We’ve selected this world-class venue specifically to honor the hard work you do. You’ve earned the right to learn, network, and relax in a setting that matches the importance of your role.
Invest in your own longevity. We’ll see you at the shore.
Connect with Influence: GHCA Exhibit & Sponsorship Opportunities
The 2026 Summer Convention is the premier venue to showcase your products to the most influential professionals in Georgia’s LTC industry. With an in-person-only format, our sponsors benefit from undivided attention and high-quality lead generation.
- On-Site Impact: Benefit from prime exhibit real estate designed for maximum foot traffic.
- Targeted Networking: Build lasting partnerships during our signature social events and educational breaks.
Explore your options: Select the Sponsor dropdown menu above to view our 2026 Sponsorship Prospectus.
Experience the Surge—In Person!
Get ready for an immersive experience that only the 2026 GHCA Summer Convention can provide. By joining us at Amelia Island, you gain full access to the rising tide of industry knowledge and connection.
- All-Access Pass: Your registration includes every on-site educational session and high-energy networking event.
- The Main Event: Be there for our signature Awards ceremony and the all-new Second Wind Dream Luncheon—a celebration of vision and heart in long-term care.
- Tailored Experience: Browse our selection of special ticketed events to customize your convention journey.
Ready to join the flow? Click the REGISTER NOW BUTTON AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE
Exhibit with a View! 🌊
Start every morning of the convention overlooking the Atlantic! We’ve placed our exhibition space in the heart of the action—the beautiful Ritz-Carlton atrium and cove.
- Be the First Connection: Meet attendees as they grab their morning coffee and prepare for the day’s "Tidal Power" sessions.
- Unrivaled Access: Located directly outside the general session room for maximum visibility.
Don't miss the wave: Click the Drop Down button at the top of this page for full exhibitor details.
Onsite Safety Information
Staying Healthy at the Summer Convention
The health and well being of GHCA's members, attendees, exhibitors, and guests are of the utmost importance. As such, we follow CDC guidelines on gatherings, meetings and events. We ask all participants to self report on any symptoms or exposures they may have experienced recently so that precautions can be taken. We ask if you feel unwell to not attend sessions in person on days you feel sick.
Nassau County EM Updates
Our convention will be held in Amelia Island, Florida which is located in Nassau County. For the most recent information regarding emergency notices in Nassau County, visit their Emergency Management website at www.onenassau.com
Take a Look at all of our Exciting Speakers This Year!

John Chen

Joel VanEaton

Jordan Johnson

Brittany Cone

Jason Bring

Antoinette Griffin

Anthony Moss

Cynthia Butts

Jason Lesandrini, FACHE

Vincent Fedele

Michael Sciacca
Robin A. Bleier

Tracy Greene

Jacob Fairchild

Frank Daniell

Andy Moore

Nisha Hammel

Ryan Beddingfield

Shawn Bloom

Stacey Young

Kathleen Benton

George Hunt

Michael Barry

Melinda Henderson

Craig Landolt

Neelam Rahateker

Arianna Moreau

Charlie Hehn

Dan Brody

Julie Miller

Kristen Higgs

Mallory Garrett

Susie Fussell

Smita Varshney

