State healthcare industry leaders, clinicians, educators, policymakers and leadership from local healthcare organizations will come together on the UMass Amherst campus on Monday, Oct. 28, to discuss, share and problem-solve the needs of our healthcare system at the Western Massachusetts Healthcare Summit. The second annual event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom at 41 Campus Center Way. 

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The summit aims to shape real solutions to the commonwealth’s most pressing healthcare challenges, including recruiting and retaining healthcare workers, educating and training the future workforce, and addressing barriers of access and feasibility for those interested in healthcare careers.

The summit will feature the participation of a number of state legislators, major healthcare providers, state government officials, individuals working in health professions and faculty members and students from the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing, among others.

This year’s keynote speaker is Kate Walsh, secretary of Health of Human Services in the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, which provides access to medical and behavioral health care, long-term services and supports, and key nutritional and financial benefits. Walsh represents a team of more than 21,000 staff across 11 agencies and the MassHealth system who work daily to provide services and programs for nearly one in every three Massachusetts residents. 

Speakers will also include UMass Amherst Chancellor Javier Reyes, College of Nursing Dean Allison Vorderstrasse, State Sen. Jo Comerford and State Rep. Mindy Domb. Guest speakers will include Jay Prosser, executive director of the Nursing Council on Workforce Sustainability, and Phyllis Williams-Thompson, director of local public health workforce development for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. 

More information, including entire event schedule and a link to register, can be found here. Registration is free by 5 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 21. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.