LeadingAge Kansas

We are waiting for you at fall conference in Salina!

Join us for an insightful webinar exploring the future of EVS in skilled nursing and senior living! We’ll cover financial controls, labor optimization, robotics, and emerging pathogens—with practical strategies to improve efficiency, strengthen infection prevention, and enhance resident-centered care.

Discover how technology and smarter operational practices can help EVS teams work safer, smarter, and more efficiently.

Presented by HHS

Click here to Learn more. https://bit.ly/4xYTgWP

Don't miss it! Register NOW for this year's Kansas Governor's Conference on Aging.
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Deadline to register: Sept. 15
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🏛️ Kansas Governor’s Conference on Aging
📅 Sept. 29-30, 2026
📍 Lawrence | Hosted at the University of Kansas Conference Center ⁠
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For general inquiries regarding our 2026 sponsor list, please contact:
📧 [email protected] ⁠
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🔗 Register now: https://www.eeds.com/portal_live_events.aspx?ConferenceID=122122
🔗 For information on sessions, visit the conference website: https://www.kdads.ks.gov/services-programs/aging/2026-governor-s-conference-on-aging

Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services Kansas 4M Geriatrics Workforce Education Program Kansas Department for Children and Families Kansas Department of Health and Environment LeadingAge Kansas

Not every problem is what it first appears to be.

Session 3 gives leaders practical tools to identify root causes, ask better questions, and make thoughtful decisions that address the real issues—not just the symptoms. Strong leaders solve problems with clarity, not guesswork.

Join us September 24, in Salina, KS for the 2026 LeadingAge Kansas Fall Conference.
https://bit.ly/4xvvrWf

Gretchen began her career in Aging Services in 1995, interrupted only by a few years in adoption case work.
What keeps Gretchen excited about serving seniors?
“My passion for Aging Services stems from spending part of my childhood in Sun City, Arizona, where I spent extended periods with my grandparents. The older adults there became my friends, and their activities became mine. I swam, played chess, and sang with them. They brought so much joy to me, and it certainly seemed to work both ways.
I strongly believe there is value in life as long as there is life. That belief fuels my passion to inspire the team I work with to bring purpose, value, and joy to the residents we serve.”

What does Gretchen enjoy about serving on the board?
“Serving on the LeadingAge Kansas Board gives me the opportunity to give back to an organization that has invested in my professional growth while also advocating for the field of aging services. It is a privilege to be part of a dynamic organization committed to leading the future of aging services.”

A fun piece of trivia about Gretchen:
“While I was in Sun City, I got to dance with Lawrence Welk. The fact that I still consider that a highlight probably qualifies me as having an old soul."

Paramount Community Living Gretchen Sapp

Energizing and Engaging Employees

People don't just stay for a job—they stay for great leadership. Session 2 at the LeadingAge Kansas Fall Conference, focuses on creating the conditions that inspire engagement, build trust, and motivate employees to do their best work. Walk away with practical ideas you can immediately use to strengthen your team.

Join us September in Salina, KS for the 2026 LeadingAge Kansas Fall Conference.

https://bit.ly/4xvvrWf

Great leadership starts with self-awareness.

In the first session of the LeadingAge Kansas Fall Conference, you'll learn how emotional intelligence influences trust, communication, and decision-making during difficult moments. Discover practical strategies to remain calm, communicate clearly, and lead with confidence—even under pressure.

Join us September 24th in Salina, KS.
https://bit.ly/4xvvrWf

Board Member Spotlight on Tayci Helm!

Tayci began her career in aging services, nearly 12 years ago, as a CNA before growing into leadership roles. She now serves the LaCrosse community as Human Resources Director at Locust Grove Village. Tayci sits on both the KING and EBI Healthcare Boards of Trustees.

What keeps Tayci excited about serving seniors?
"Every day is an opportunity to make a difference in someone's life. I enjoy building relationships with residents and their families and helping create an environment where older adults feel valued, respected, and connected to their community."

What does Tayci enjoy about serving on our board?
"I enjoy collaborating with others who are passionate about aging services and advocating for older adults. Serving on a board allows me to learn from leaders across the state, share ideas, and help shape the future of care for seniors."

Tayci would like members to know:
"I started my career in long-term care as a CNA and have worked my way through several roles over the years. When I'm not at work, you'll usually find me cheering on my kids at their sporting events, watching basketball, or spending time with my family and our four dogs. Staying involved in my community and supporting the people around me is something I truly enjoy."

Thank you to Aegis Therapies for supporting LeadingAge Kansas as a Bronze Partner in 2026!

Aegis Therapies is a nationally recognized premier provider of therapy and wellness services, delivering effective care in a highly collaborative manner. They offer physical, occupational and speech therapy, as well as wellness, activities, restorative care, skilled maintenance, and consulting services for any setting across the continuum.

If your building works with Aegis, make sure to thank them for supporting your association in 2026!

Leadership comes with challenges, and leading under pressure can be a powerful opportunity to inspire, adapt, and make a meaningful impact.

Join us this fall for Leading with Clarity Under Pressure, a four-part executive leadership course designed specifically for senior care leaders. You'll gain practical tools to strengthen emotional intelligence, engage your team, solve problems with confidence, and prevent burnout while maintaining high standards.
Invest in yourself so you can better invest in your team. We hope you'll join us September 24th in Salina, KS.

https://bit.ly/4xvvrWf