With all the snow and ice piling up across New England—and freezing temperatures gripping so much of the country—it definitely feels like we’re in the thick of winter. And honestly, with everything else happening in the world, a lot of us are feeling that cold a little more than usual.

One thing that really helps? Talking to the people around us. A quick chat with a coworker. A check‑in with someone who looks like they might need it. A moment of real conversation can remind us we’re not carrying things alone.

That’s what I love most about the Symposium community. Every year, people from all different backgrounds—designers, clinicians, engineers, planners, and so many others—show up ready to learn, share, and lift each other up. It’s not just about building better healthcare spaces; it’s about building them together.

And our Advisory Board is the perfect example of that spirit. They met last month in Tampa, and as always, they brought their whole hearts to the table. It wasn’t just a meeting—it was a reminder of what can happen when passionate people gather with a shared purpose.

As we move through February, let’s keep leaning on each other. Talk to the people around you. Ask how they’re doing. Be that small spark of connection someone might really need.

Because if the Symposium community proves anything, it’s that we’re stronger—and more inspired—when we show up for one another.

Be well,
Jenabeth

Jenabeth Ferguson
Vice President, Symposium Director
Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo

P.S. Have a thought about the Symposium? Please feel free to contact me at any time at [email protected].

As the year winds down, I’ve been reflecting on the remarkable influence visionary architects have had on healthcare design. This month, we mourn the passing of Frank Gehry—a name synonymous with creativity, courage, and pushing boundaries. While Gehry is celebrated for his iconic cultural landmarks, his impact on healthcare spaces is equally profound. He reminded us that hospitals and clinics don’t have to feel institutional; they can be places of beauty, hope, and humanity. His work challenged us to think beyond pure function and embrace design as a tool for healing—a legacy that continues to inspire environments that nurture both body and spirit.

Although Gehry’s portfolio is often associated with museums and concert halls, he brought that same bold vision to healthcare. The Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas stands as a powerful example of his belief that architecture can spark optimism and curiosity, even in spaces where patients face life-altering diagnoses. Its dynamic, sculptural forms create an atmosphere that feels anything but clinical, reminding us that design can uplift and empower. Gehry’s work proves that innovation and compassion can coexist—and that architecture can play an active role in the healing process.

As we look ahead to 2026, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of planning, deadlines, and goals. But the holiday season offers us something precious: the chance to pause. To slow down. To reconnect with what truly matters. The work you do is about creating environments that care for people—let’s make sure you extend that same care to yourselves and those you love. Whether it’s sharing a meal, laughing over old stories, or simply being present, these moments are what sustain us.

Thank you for being part of the incredible Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo community. Your passion and dedication make a difference every day, and I’m honored to share this journey with you. Wishing you peace, joy, and meaningful moments this holiday season. Rest, recharge, and come back ready for an inspiring year ahead.

Be well,
Jenabeth

Jenabeth Ferguson
Vice President, Symposium Director
Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo

P.S. Have a thought about the Symposium? Please feel free to contact me at any time at [email protected].

Wow—what a week! The 2025 Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo in sunny San Diego was one for the record books. I’m still riding the wave of inspiration, ideas, and incredible conversations that filled every moment.

From the get-go, the vibe was electric. Attendees from all over came ready to share, learn, and connect. The natural light in the exhibit hall seemed to filter to every part of the event and keep us all refreshed and energized.

The keynotes – Total game-changers. Oz Sanchez didn’t just kick off the Symposium—he lit a fire in all of us to break barriers and chase greatness, no matter the odds. Ron Galloway flipped the script on time and tech—who knew AI could help us work smarter and reclaim our day?  And Annette Ridenour took us on a whirlwind journey through the soul of healthcare design—turns out, spaces can heal hearts just as much as bodies.

The expo floor was buzzing with innovation. From futuristic tech to eco-friendly materials, it was clear that our industry is dreaming big. I especially loved seeing solutions that put patients first—comfort, dignity, and better outcomes were front and center.

Sessions were packed with energy and ideas. We dove into everything from pediatric design to emergency preparedness, and the conversations didn’t stop when the sessions ended. There was a real spirit of collaboration—people swapping stories, brainstorming, and building connections.

But honestly, the best part? The people. Whether it was chatting over coffee or connecting at a networking event, there was this amazing sense of community. We’re all in this together, and that feeling was everywhere.

As we head back to our day jobs, I know the spark from San Diego will keep glowing. The ideas, the connections, the energy—it’s all coming with us. And yes, I’m already counting down to next year!

Huge thanks to everyone who made this event so special. You brought the magic, and I’m so grateful to be part of it.

Be Well,
Jenabeth

Jenabeth Ferguson
Vice President, Symposium Director
Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo

In just over a month, the healthcare design and facilities community will come together in San Diego for the 38th Annual Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo—and this year’s event is shaping up to be one of our most dynamic yet.

Over two and a half days, you’ll experience:

• 3 inspiring keynotes
• 55+ educational sessions
• 200+ industry leaders sharing insights
• An exhibit hall packed with innovation

Whether you’re looking to source cutting-edge products, discover new solutions, or gain fresh perspectives from top minds in the field, this is the place to be.

If you haven’t registered yet, now’s the time. As a reader of The Leaflet, you can use VIP Code LT25 to receive 10% off your registration through August 31.

And because we know how vital in-person connections have become, here are three can’t-miss networking events to add to your calendar:

1. Opening Reception & Symposium Party

Kick off the event with drinks, appetizers, and your first look at the exhibit hall. Don’t miss our annual raffle—with prizes like Apple products, Kate Spade bags, and Amazon gift cards. All proceeds benefit Mama’s Kitchen, a San Diego-based nonprofit supporting individuals and families facing critical illness.

2. Ice Cream Social

Enjoy a sweet treat while making your final rounds through the exhibit hall. It’s a fun, relaxed way to connect with exhibitors and fellow attendees before the show wraps.

3. Happy Hour

Unwind after a full day of learning. Slip into something casual and join us at Sidebar (536 Market Street) to relax, recharge, and network in a laid-back setting.

Enjoy the last few weeks of summer—and I look forward to welcoming you in San Diego!

Be Well,
Jenabeth

Jenabeth Ferguson
Vice President, Symposium Director
Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo

P.S. Have a thought about the Symposium? Please feel free to contact me at any time at [email protected].

Let’s be honest—there’s a lot going on in the world right now. Uncertainty seems to be the only constant, and it’s affecting all of us in different ways. Whether it’s the economy, global events, or just the day-to-day challenges of our work, it can feel like we’re all trying to find our footing in shifting sand.

At the same time, we’re seeing a big generational shift in our industry. New voices are stepping up, bringing fresh ideas and new energy. It’s exciting—but it also means change, and change can be hard. Many of us are figuring out how to lead through this transition, how to mentor, how to listen, and how to grow alongside the next generation.

That’s why I believe—now more than ever—it’s important to come together. To be in the same room. To have real conversations with people who get it. The Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo has always been about community, and this year, that sense of connection feels even more vital.

We’re especially proud of our Emerging Leader Scholarship Program, which brings rising stars into the Symposium family. These are the future leaders of our industry, and they’re already making an impact. Let’s show up for them. Let’s welcome them, support them, and learn from them—because they’re not just the future, they’re part of our present, too.

So, if you’ve been feeling a little overwhelmed, a little unsure, or just in need of some inspiration—come join us. Let’s reconnect, recharge, and remind ourselves why we do this work. We’re better together, and I can’t wait to see you in the sessions, in the aisles, and in the conversations with your colleagues from across the country.

Be well,
Jenabeth

Jenabeth Ferguson
Vice President, Symposium Director
Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo

Next week, we will unveil the 2025 Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo conference program. You will be able to explore over 55 sessions, see which design firms are presenting, and learn about the numerous healthcare systems that have speakers sharing their stories.

Have you ever wondered what goes into selecting the sessions for the conference each year? It’s one of my favorite processes that we undertake to produce the event. I thought I’d pull back the curtain and explain our system for finalizing the program.

Every year, we do an open call for submissions starting in November, with a deadline typically in early February. Anyone is welcome to submit a proposal for consideration. Simultaneously, I reach out to design firms and healthcare systems, asking them to submit proposals on specific topics and projects. Our advisory board members also do the same.

Speaking of the advisory board, we meet in person every January. During that meeting, we go around the table, and I ask them, “What is keeping you up at night?” In other words, I want to hear about the pressure points they are facing at work. I also ask about the types of projects coming online or those they are hearing about. This download of information is critical in shaping the conference program because it tells me what we need to address to stay relevant to the industry’s current issues. We also have a brainstorming session on the types of sessions they want to see in the program, and what they have heard from each other helps focus on the most important topics.

Once we have received all the submissions, a committee of 10-14 board members reviews them. They have a month to read, rate, and provide comments on each submission. At the same time, I read through the submissions at least five times. The first two times, I read each submission on its own merits without comparison or notes. Then, I go back through, and we offer the option of submitting a video to talk about the proposal. I listen to all of those and make notes because I find that more information comes from the video than the written proposal. The next time through, I start to pay attention to the specific speakers and organizations in the proposals, which helps me understand them even more. Finally, I mark them up with thoughts on the topic, type of project, firm, speaker, and healthcare organization.

At this point, I have received feedback from the review committee. I compile it onto one sheet and begin to read through all the proposals again, considering the group’s feedback. Very rarely is there a consensus, but that is to be expected because the committee members come from different disciplines, stages of their careers, and experiences. This is why it’s my role to make the final selections, taking all their perspectives into account. They represent the attendees, and the sessions need to satisfy all their perspectives.

I then take two days where I clear both my professional and personal calendar and essentially lock myself in a room. I go through the proposals and begin to make the final selections. I have a hit list of topics we want to cover. I try hard to ensure no organization, whether an AEC firm or healthcare system, presents more than one or two sessions. This is often very challenging because some larger firms submit dozens of proposals. I also look at project types and geographic locations to ensure we have a good mix of healthcare environments from across the country and international representation. We require that every case study and really we strive for almost every session has a presenter from a healthcare provider on the panel. I look at the speakers and seek diversity and a mix of experience, so we hear from both experienced professionals and emerging leaders. I review who has spoken in previous years to ensure it’s not always the same folks, and I make sure different offices of larger firms get an opportunity. I send texts and emails to the review committee, double-checking comments they made or asking for their input on deciding between proposals. At the end of it, I come out with the final sessions and a large pile of those that don’t make the cut, which are often very good submissions. This is the hard part, as we receive anywhere from four to six times the number of proposals we need each year.

Then, it’s another whole project to place the sessions in the right days and time slots! Check back, and maybe next year I’ll talk about that. In the meantime, keep your eyes out next week for the announcement as we unveil this year’s program. Maybe you’ll look at it a little differently now that you understand how much effort and thought goes into putting it together.

Be well,
Jenabeth

Jenabeth Ferguson
Vice President, Symposium Director
Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo

Nothing motivates me more than being in a room with smart, dedicated, passionate people. And that is exactly what happens each and every time our advisory board gets together. This past January, we took the winter meeting to sunny Orlando. Looking back, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride and excitement. Our board members, who came from all over the country, came ready to play.

The meeting was marked by an openness and honesty that is truly refreshing. No one hesitated to dive into the pressing challenges we’re facing in the industry. From staffing shortages to the uncertain future under the new administration, and what AI will mean both within design firms and healthcare settings, we tackled it all. This willingness to face tough issues head-on is what makes our advisory board so special and drives the mission of the Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo forward.

A highlight of the meeting was the sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among the board members. Despite the varied backgrounds and perspectives, there was a shared commitment to improving healthcare environments and driving innovation. This collaborative spirit is at the heart of what we do, and it was on full display in Orlando.

As we move forward, I’m confident that the insights and strategies discussed at this meeting will color all of the planning for this year’s Symposium and beyond. Right now, we are beginning to review speaking proposals, and we’ll be looking for sessions that help tackle the issues discussed at our meeting.

The dedication and passion of our advisory board members are truly remarkable, and I’m grateful for their continued contributions to our mission.

Be well,
Jenabeth

Jenabeth Ferguson
Vice President, Symposium Director
Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo

‘Tis the season to pause and reflect on what truly matters. Here at the Symposium, we believe in the power of being present—not just in our work, but in our personal lives too. This December, let’s all make a conscious effort to be more mindful and truly connect with those around us.

In our busy lives, it’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle. But the holidays give us a special chance to slow down and savor the moments. Whether it’s sharing a meal, having a heartfelt conversation, or simply enjoying each other’s company, being present means giving our full attention to these precious times.

Mindfulness can be a game-changer. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or even a quiet walk can help us stay grounded and focused on the here and now. These small acts can reduce stress and enhance our well-being, making our interactions with loved ones even more meaningful. Let’s try to weave mindfulness into our daily routines this holiday season. I have been trying to get outside each day and be sure to take deep breaths of the fresh air, look around at nature and feel the ground below me. Even if it’s just 5 minutes it can be a game changer.

The holidays are all about relationships. It’s a time to reach out, listen, and engage with family, friends, and colleagues. A genuine conversation or a shared experience can create lasting memories and strengthen our bonds. Let’s make an effort to connect on a deeper level with those we care about. Two of my cousins and all their kids come to visit each summer and Christmas and I make spending as much time with them as possible a priority. I grew up with them and want to be a part of their kids lives so I make sure I show up when it’s possible.

Balancing work and personal life can be tough, especially during the holidays. It’s important to set boundaries and prioritize self-care. Remember, taking care of yourself helps you be more present and effective in all areas of your life. Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks, take breaks, and do things that bring you joy. My mother was a school teacher so she was always off over the holidays and I don’t remember my father ever working that week.  While it was a time of big family celebrations, it was also a time of everyone on the couch watching movies or off to the city to explore bookstore and buy new music (you know before every song was on your phone at your fingertips). I have kept up that tradition as an adult.  Actually, December 26th is my favourite day of the year – I stay in my pajamas, watch old movies, enjoy the leftovers and just relax. I probably need to do that more than once a year!

As we head into the new year, let’s carry the lessons of presence and mindfulness with us. By being more present, we can enrich our relationships, improve our well-being, and create a more balanced life.

Wishing you a joyful, peaceful, and present holiday season.

Wow, what an incredible few days we had at the 2024 Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo in Austin! I’m still buzzing from all the amazing experiences and connections that were made.

From the moment we kicked things off, the energy was just electric. Our attendees from all over the country, each bringing their unique perspectives and expertise. It was truly inspiring to see such a diverse group come together with a shared passion for improving healthcare environments.

The keynote speakers this year were absolutely phenomenal. Dr. Esmaeil Porsa opened our eyes to a segment of the population we don’t often think about and challenged the audience to “be curious” a theme that carried through the event. Dan Chuparkoff took the big bad subject of AI and simplified it, explained it and presented many ways it can help us all be more productive and creative.  Tama Duffy Day closed out by nudging us all to use the power of design to change the world and to positively affect healing and promote well-being.

Walking through the expo floor was like stepping into the future. The latest innovations in medical equipment and sustainable building materials were on full display, and it was clear that our industry partners are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. I was especially thrilled to see so many solutions aimed at enhancing patient experience and improving outcomes.

The sessions were another highlight. We tackled everything from retrofitting aging facilities to the latest trends in pediatric and oncology design. These sessions were not just informative but also highly interactive, fostering a real sense of collaboration and shared problem-solving.

But honestly, what made this year’s symposium truly special was the sense of community. Whether it was during the formal networking events or the more casual meet-ups, there was a genuine spirit of camaraderie and the exchange of ideas. It reminded me that at the core of our work is a collective commitment to making healthcare environments better for everyone.

As we look ahead, I’m confident that the insights and connections we gained in Austin will propel us forward. I’m already counting down the days to next year’s event in San Diego and can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve together.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended, presented, and exhibited. You all made this year’s Symposium an unforgettable experience.

Jenabeth Ferguson
Vice President, Symposium Director
Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo

P.S. Have a thought about the Symposium? Please feel free to contact me at any time at [email protected].

In just over a month, we will all be gathered at the 37^th Annual Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo.  We have quite a line up this year over two and a half days, including 3 keynotes over 55 sessions featuring a roster of over 200 industry leaders speaking, an exhibit hall packed with companies eager to show you their latest products and services and so much more.

I want you to register for the event if you have not already and come to Austin for the all the education and sourcing innovative products and solutions in our exhibit hall.  I also know how important networking with your industry peers is, and how much more important in person networking has become in the past several years. I thought I would share our top three networking events that you need make sure are on your schedule when at the Symposium in Austin this September.

1. Opening Reception and Symposium Party! Talk about an event highlight.  It is your first chance to see all the exhibitors and talk with them about their latest products and services. We’ll be serving drinks and appetizers so you can catch up with your fellow attendees. The Symposium Party also features our annual raffle, where you can buy tickets to win prizes ranging from Apple products to Kate Spade bags to Amazon gifts cards and so much more.  The best part is 100% of the proceeds from the raffle go to benefit a charitable organization, and this year we’ll be supporting For Every Child, Inc which is a charity based in Austin. Their main initiative is called Hope Totes which focuses entirely on children arriving in emergency shelters or safe houses and those entering the foster care system after being removed from abuse or neglect. Each year, they assemble and donate as many Hope Totes as they can, to children entering emergency shelters and the foster care system. Removed from abuse and neglect, these kids are alone and afraid. A small act of love delivered in a hopeful tote reminds them that someone does care.
2. Ice Cream Social! This is your last chance to visit with exhibitors and thank them for their support of the Symposium.  And to make it a little more tempting we provide ice cream as a mid-afternoon snack for all in attendance.  Feel like a kid again, grab a sweet treat and make one last circle around the exhibit floor.
3. Happy Hour! Now this is the time to get away from the convention center, maybe change into a little more casual attire and check out a local watering hole.

If you still need to register, as a reader of The Leaflet, you can receive a 10% discount if you register by August 31. Use VIP Code LT24.* Enjoy the last few weeks of summer and I will see you in Austin very soon!

Be Well,
Jenabeth

Jenabeth Ferguson
Vice President, Symposium Director
Healthcare Facilities Symposium & Expo

P.S. Have a thought about the Symposium? Please feel free to contact me at any time at [email protected].

*Discount is only applicable to registrations not yet received. No refunds will be given.