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Register Today to Attend the 2026 Dakota Conference

Mar 11, 2026

Dakota Conference The reimagined Dakota Conference on Rural Health is excited to announce a new format and session tracks. The conference will be one and a half days, and feature three keynotes, 21 breakout sessions, poster presentations, time to visit with industry exhibitors, a legislative panel, and an awards banquet luncheon. The Dakota Conference will be held June 3-4 in Grand Forks, North Dakota at the Alerus Center.

Attending

Learn more about the sessions and how to register:

Early Bird Registration Deadline: March 31 at 11:59 pm

Tracks

Three healthcare-related tracks will guide participants through the presentations most important to their needs:

  • Innovation in Practice Track will showcase new projects being implemented in rural communities across North Dakota and will include potential ideas for replicating them in other communities.
  • Leadership Track will introduce participants to new ways to communicate, inspire others, and lead by example.
  • Workforce Track is ideal for attendees who are interested in hearing firsthand accounts of healthcare workers in North Dakota, recruitment and retention methods, and workforce development programs in rural areas.

Keynote Speakers

The Dakota Conference will also feature three keynote speakers, each with a message that aligns with a track above. The keynotes will be delivered with information specifically crafted for North Dakota rural health leaders, providers, and advocates:

  • Rich Bluni, of Huron Consulting, will talk about "Inspired Leadership."
  • Jacob Warren, director of the University of North Dakota Center for Rural Health, will share his work in maternal health.
  • A keynote session will discuss the Rural Health Transformation Program and the role it will play in the state.

Exhibiting

Exhibitor registrations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis. The exhibitor deadline is March 31, or until display spaces are full.

Questions?

Nicole Threadgold
Grant Program Director
(701) 330-3264
nicole.threadgold@und.edu

Facilitated By:

  • Center for Rural Health, University of North Dakota (UND) School of Medicine & Health Sciences

Supported By: