By Dann M. Boyer, CHFM
Director of Facilities Operations
Sturdy Memorial Hospital
2021 NEHES President-Elect

September is here, and with that, the NEHES Fall Conference in Newport, RI. This year’s theme: “Innovation and People: What’s the Perfect Balance?” promises to be an outstanding presentation. The conference will be held at the Newport Marriott Hotel, 25 America’s Cup Avenue Newport, RI 02840, and will include the annual golf tournament at the Newport National Golf Club, and gala at the Ocean Cliff Hotel in Newport with stunning views of Narragansett Bay. Additionally, the conference will include over 20 fantastic educational opportunities.

With the pandemic currently in flux, there still remains the possibility that we will not be able to have an in-person event. At the time of this writing, we are still planning the event to happen as planned, but we are in discussion on what will happen if it cannot. At a minimum, I would expect that masks will be required for all in attendance, as was the case during the recent ASHE Annual Conference that was held in Nashville, TN.

I know everyone is anxious to put this pandemic in the rearview mirror, but it could take more time than everyone guessed. Remember, we are leaders in the healthcare industry, and it is upon us to set an example to those in the community. Do your part in setting that example and follow the recommendations of the CDC.

Finally, I would like to take the time to thank our many sponsors and supporting members. Without your dedication to healthcare engineering, it would not be possible for NEHES to have such a vibrant organization. Once again, at the ASHE Annual Conference, NEHES was awarded the Platinum Elite Affiliated Chapter. Thank you again for all you do for NEHES and the healthcare industry as a whole.