Seth Arends Soni Fink Heather Folker Adrienne Gothard, MPH
NEHA 2026 AEC Wrap-Up
Elizabeth Grenier Becky Labbo, MA
Kristen Ruby-Cisneros Michéle Samarya-Timm,
MA, HO, REHS, MCHES, DLAAS
Sharon D. Unkart, PhD National Environmental Health Association
Woven Strong: The Environmental Health Tapestry The 89th Annual Educational Conference (AEC) & Exhibition of the National Envi- ronmental Health Association (NEHA) was held August 3–6, 2026, in Kansas City, Mis- souri, at the Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center. The conference welcomed 1,278 registered attendees, with 1,088 attending in person and 190 participat- ing virtually. This year’s theme, “Woven Strong: The Environmental Health Tapes- try,” reflected how every thread, whether an individual’s expertise, experiences, or innovations, interlaces with others to cre- ate a stronger, more resilient future for public health. A total of four general sessions were presented, including the Opening Keynote Address, two Plenary Addresses, and the Closing Keynote Address. Additionally, the conference offered almost 200 educa- tional sessions in three formats: 126 in- person sessions, 47 livestream sessions, and 25 on-demand (i.e., prerecorded vir- tual) sessions. Overall, 375 presenters shared their knowledge and expertise with attendees throughout the week, providing opportunities for professional development, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas across the profession. The Exhibit Hall also brought together 46 exhibitors showcasing products, services, and resources supporting the environ- mental public health community. Throughout the conference, vari- ous events provided opportunities for attendees to connect with colleagues, celebrate achievements, and build pro- fessional relationships. On Monday, August 3, the conference week kicked off with the popular Exhibition Grand Open- ing. Tuesday, August 4, featured the Student Excellence Reception & Career Fair and the Environmental Health Photo Exhibition & Contest. On Wednesday, August 5, attendees came together for the Honoring Excellence in Environmen-
board members, technical advisors, and staff for their participation and contribu- tions to the success of the 2026 AEC. Together, we continue to strengthen the environmental health profession by shar- ing knowledge, fostering connections, and advancing public health. We look forward to seeing you next year in Port- land, Oregon, for the AEC 2027!
tal Health ceremony and then went off- site to enjoy the EH Networking Social at KC Live!. The final event was held on Thursday, August 6, with the Member Town Hall Breakfast, which provided an opportunity for members to connect and engage with NEHA’s leadership. We thank our attendees, members, speakers, exhibitors, sponsors, partners,
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Volume 89 • Number 4
https://doi.org/10.70387/001c.173651
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