Open Forum: Next Generation 2026

Join NNPHI’s National Coordinating Center for Public Health Training in lively Nashville, Tennessee, July 29-31, 2026, for our cherished annual event: Open Forum: Next Generation. This year’s conference theme — Grounded in Purpose, Growing Our impact — acknowledges that now is the time to tend to our public health workforce. The next generation of leaders in our field must be deeply rooted in our collective purpose to strengthen local and state health systems and equipped to grow the reach and effectiveness of public health practice in an ever-changing world. Open Forum offers an intentional space for new public health professionals, emerging leaders, and seasoned practitioners to come together for collaborative reflection, learning, and strategizing for a robust public health future. Event highlights include workshops, activities, and networking opportunities such as lightning talks, unconference sessions, and roundtables. The event features impactful opportunities to network and create meaningful mentorship connections. Interactive workshops and engaging sessions from public health workforce members and leaders nationwide will cover five key tracks: Advancing a culture of performance and quality improvement; Growing and uplifting the public health workforce; Modernizing data practice for today’s digital landscape; Navigating public health challenges in a changing world; and Strengthening infrastructure for public health success. The conference also includes an awards ceremony, poster reception, and plenary sessions. Awards presented are the NxGen Leader Award, PHIG Impact Award, Catalyst Award, Dynamic Duo Award, and Performance Improvement Champion Award. This project is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).