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
Workshops, activities and networking
Innovative activities including lightning talks, unconference sessions, roundtables, and more! 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 with 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
- Strengthening infrastructure for public health success
Awards
Inspiring ways to celebrate the champions in our field with an award ceremony, poster reception, and plenary sessions. Awards include:
- NxGen Leader Award
- PHIG Impact Award
- Catalyst Award
- Dynamic Duo Award
- Performance Improvement Champion Award
How to get involved
- Submit an abstract Showcase your research, projects, or ideas by submitting an abstract for consideration at the conference.
- Nominate an awardee Recognize outstanding contributions in public health by nominating individuals or organizations for one of our prestigious awards.
- Engage Follow NNPHI on social media (LinkedIn and Instagram) for the latest event updates.
This project is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $9,384,615 with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.