Public Health Conference of Iowa

April 8–9, 2026

The state’s premier gathering for public health professionals, featuring networking, education, and advocacy opportunities.

The Public Health Conference of Iowa (PHCI) is a must-attend event for all Iowans who work in public health, environmental health, primary care, health promotion, health education, laboratory sciences and more!

With the theme Game On: A New Era of Public Health, the 2026 Public Health Conference of Iowa (PHCI) will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions, poster presentations, and networking opportunities designed to help participants unlock new strategies, level up their skills, and connect with partners dedicated to advancing equity and creating healthier communities. Together, we’ll navigate new challenges, discover innovative solutions, and move public health into its next era—one level at a time.

Conference Agenda

Registration Closes March 30

Register today for the 2026 Public Health Conference of Iowa (PHCI26)—Iowa’s premier gathering of public health professionals, students, and partners. Join more than 500 colleagues from across the state for learning, networking, and inspiration as we explore timely public health issues, share innovative practices, and strengthen the connections that move our work forward. Game on!

This year’s conference is located at the Holiday Inn Des Moines – Airport. Rooms are available at a reduced rate of $119 per night. Reserve your room by March 17, 2026, to guarantee event pricing.

Reserve Your Hotel Room

If you have any questions, please contact PHCI Conference Coordinator, Hannah Albrecht, halb@iastate.edu.

Keynote Speakers

Himar Hernandez, Iowa State University Extension

Born in Africa, Himar grew up in Spain and Germany until he came to Iowa as an exchange student at the age of 15. He is the State Assistant Director for Community and Economic Development for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and was previously the Director of the New Iowan Center (Iowa Workforce) for Southeast Iowa.

Himar is co-author of several research papers and his work in small rural communities has been featured in Good Morning America, The Chronicle of Higher Education, The Wall Street Journal and NBC Today. He is a recipient of the Passport to Prosperity Award and was named one of 14 people to watch by the Des Moines Register. Himar and his family live in Ottumwa.

Dr. Chris Chanyasulkit

Chris Chanyasulkit, PhD, MPH is a public health practitioner, advocate, keynote speaker, and master connector grounded in the belief that we must eliminate structural barriers to equity for historically marginalized populations.

As the Past President of the American Public Health Association (APHA), Dr. Chanyasulkit holds leadership positions in local, state, and national governance. She is a highly regarded speaker for diverse audiences, known for her unique ability to translate complex health disparities into actionable civic engagement. She is also the author of Successful Public Health Advocacy: Lessons Learned from Massachusetts Legislators.

In addition to her advocacy and scholarly pursuits, Chris serves as an elected Library Trustee for the Public Libraries of Brookline and a board member of United for Libraries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Art History from Boston University, an
MPH from the Boston University School of Public Health, and a doctoral degree in Political Science from Northeastern University. Chris is happiest when reading a good mystery at home with her husband, three children, and two puppies.

Thank You to Our Sponsors!

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