As President of the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD) and as a State Chronic Disease Director, I understand the importance of having access to practical, high-quality professional development opportunities that help us strengthen our work and improve health outcomes in our communities. 

That is why I am excited to invite you to the 2026 Virtual Chronic Disease Academy, which will take place September 15–17. This annual event brings together public health professionals, partners, researchers, students, and emerging leaders from across the country to learn, connect, and share innovative approaches to chronic disease prevention and control. This year’s theme – Connect, Engage, Innovate – reflects the collaborative spirit that drives our field forward. The Academy will feature peer-to-peer learning, interactive workshops, networking sessions, discussion forums, and poster presentations designed to advance chronic disease prevention efforts and support public health practice. Our prominent Academy topics this year include cross-sector partnerships, the use of modern analytics, AI, and data tools to accelerate solutions, and the use of strategic communications and storytelling to build trust and motivate action. 

One thing that makes the Chronic Disease Academy especially valuable is the exceptional educational experience available at quite an affordable cost. Participants will hear from nationally recognized keynote speakers daily while also gaining practical strategies and tools they can apply immediately in their work. Whether you are focused on policy, program implementation, evaluation, communications, community engagement, or health systems partnerships, the Academy offers opportunities to learn from experts and colleagues facing similar challenges and opportunities. 

I would especially encourage our Associate Members and partners to take advantage of this opportunity. Staff from local health departments, universities, nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems, federal agencies, and other partner organizations play a critical role in advancing chronic disease prevention nationwide. The Academy provides a unique setting to connect with state and territorial health department chronic disease prevention and health promotion leaders, share promising practices, and build relationships that strengthen collaboration long after the event concludes. 

NACDD remains committed to making professional development both affordable and accessible. Registration is available at no cost for chronic disease program staff working in state and territorial health departments. Associate Member registration is just $300, while students can attend for only $100, making the Academy one of the more affordable national learning opportunities available in public health today. 

Regular registration is now open, and I encourage you not to wait. Every year, participants leave the Academy with new ideas, practical resources, and valuable connections that help advance their work and strengthen their impact. Last year’s event filled to capacity, so be sure not to miss this great offering! 

I hope you’ll join me and colleagues from across the country this fall for three engaging days of learning, networking, and innovation. Together, we can continue building the partnerships, skills, and solutions needed to prevent chronic disease and improve the health of all communities. 

Register today and secure your place at the 2026 Virtual Chronic Disease Academy. I look forward to seeing you online in September!