As we reflect on NASHP’s 2025 Annual Conference, we are energized with ideas, connections, and a renewed dedication to our mission to support states to improve the health of their state residents. It was a privilege to gather with all of you — over 900 members of the state health policy community, from all 50 states, Washington DC, and several territories — to “ride the waves of state health policy” during times of change and opportunity.
The energy was palpable inside and outside all of the sessions — and not just from the San Diego sunshine. Attendees recognized the need for creativity and innovation to advance health policy in the midst of tighter state budgets, federal policy changes, and more limited resources. Understanding these challenges and opportunities, attendees remarked at how rejuvenating it was to be in community with peers who are passionate about improving the health of people across states. Meaningful conversations centered consumers, focused on outcomes and innovation, and shared first-hand perspectives of “roll-up-your-sleeves” state leaders in moving policy work forward.
I am so thankful for NASHP’s Academy, Board, and staff; state and federal leaders who presented at and attended the event; and our sponsors and exhibitors. Please join us in celebrating a few moments that made this year’s conference so memorable.
We’ll see you next year in New York City (mark your calendars for September 28-30)!
Conversations Shaping State Health Policy
At NASHP’s 38th annual conference, thought-provoking plenaries and sessions explored many timely and pressing issues shaping state health policy.
State leaders and experts reflected on shared strategies for sustaining and innovating in the face of federal change and marked Medicaid’s 60th anniversary with insights on its future. The plenary sessions also featured a conversation on the influence of social media in shaping public understanding of health information and how states can leverage it to build trust and engagement. And the many other sessions offered deeper dives into targeted topics, where leaders shared tangible and practical strategies.
The conference closed with a dynamic discussion with Tom Engels, Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), on federal initiatives in primary care, behavioral health, rural health and maternal health, as well as sharing state perspectives on current needs, strategies, and ideas for the future.
NASHP Award Winners
Each year, NASHP honors state leaders whose dedication and innovation are shaping the future of health policy.
The NASHP Rising Star Award is given to a state official working in the field for fewer than seven years whose contributions are exceptional and show promise for future leadership. This year’s Rising Star Award winner is Allegra Hernandez, Fiscal Analyst with the New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee. Allegra exemplifies leadership and innovative thinking – translating complex concepts, research, and data into valuable information for citizen legislators whose job is to chart a path for state health policy.
The NASHP Academy Award acknowledges and celebrates an individual who has made significant contributions throughout their career. This year’s Academy Award winner is Wendy Tiegreen, who spent more than 30 years with the State of Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. Wendy has dedicated her career to mental health and substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery. She is a state and national expert in the areas of Medicaid financing, workforce development, policy, and the peer recovery movement.
*Check out some of our top moments at NASHP’s 38th Annual Conference!
