Great leaders inspire through integrity, vision, and empathy. They cultivate an environment of innovation and trust, empowering their teams to tackle challenges with creative solutions. At the 2025 Leadership Summit, our keynote speakers, Ron Hetrick and Charles Duhigg, will offer new insights into leadership and communication, and give you the tools needed to help you enhance the way you lead and collaborate with your employees.

Harnessing Workforce Trends to Shape the Future of Aging Services

Monday, April 7 | 8:30–10:30 a.m.

In a rapidly evolving labor market, understanding workforce trends is critical for aging services providers striving to build resilient teams and meet growing demands. Popular labor economist Ron Hetrick will explore the latest data-driven insights into workforce challenges and opportunities, including demographic shifts, talent shortages, and recruitment strategies specific to the aging services sector. He will share actionable strategies to help build stronger, more sustainable organizations that are equipped to serve a growing aging population.

Hetrick is a senior economist at Lightcast, a leader in workforce analytics, and an expert on labor force dynamics and demographics. With over 20 years of experience analyzing economic data and labor trends, he has been featured in major publications such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and Forbes.

The Power of Connection: Insights from Super Communicators

Tuesday, April 8 | 8:30–10:30 a.m.

Effective communication is at the heart of building trust, inspiring teams, and driving success in the aging services sector. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Charles Duhigg will explore the principles of his book, “Super Communicators”, to uncover what makes certain individuals and organizations excel in building connections. Gain actionable insights into fostering clarity, empathy, and impact in everyday interactions with colleagues, residents, and stakeholders. As aging services providers navigate complex challenges, now more than ever we need strategies to empower us to create meaningful connections and lead with confidence in an evolving landscape.

Charles Duhigg is an acclaimed journalist, bestselling author, and researcher on productivity and organizational behavior. His works, including the award-winning book “The Power of Habit”, have been translated into over 40 languages and have shaped the way leaders and organizations approach change and growth.

Advocacy in Action: Positively Impact the Aging Services Landscape

Wednesday, April 9 | 8:30–9:30 a.m.

With a new administration and Congress in place, making your voice heard has never been more essential. This session will focus on making the most of Lobby Day to ensure your experiences resonate with elected officials and inspire action. You’ll hear from a key stakeholder in Washington, DC, gain practical tools to prepare for your meetings with congressional offices, learn how to effectively communicate your needs, and craft a narrative that reflects the critical role you play in your state’s aging services landscape.

As LeadingAge members, you have a unique opportunity at the Leadership Summit to connect with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, to advance policies that remove barriers to care, expand affordable senior housing, enhance services, improve reimbursement, and create a better America for older adults.  Seize the opportunity to strengthen your advocacy skills; be part of the collective voice shaping the future of aging in America.