The annual Minnesota Society for Public Health Education (MN SOPHE) Health Education Summit brings together health education specialists and public health professionals from across the state to share knowledge, spark ideas, and strengthen the practice of health education in Minnesota.
This year, we're proud to introduce our theme—"Uninterrupted: Public Health in Action."
Public health is constantly evolving. As new challenges emerge, technologies advance, and communities' needs shift, health educators continue to adapt, innovate, and lead. Uninterrupted reflects the resilience of Minnesota's public health workforce and the ongoing commitment to improving health through collaboration, leadership, education, and action.
Throughout the day, attendees will explore the current state of public health, discover innovative partnerships and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, strengthen leadership skills, and connect with colleagues who are shaping the future of health education across our state. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned practitioner, you'll leave with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and renewed energy to advance your work.
The MN SOPHE Planning Committee is thrilled to welcome you to an engaging lineup of speakers, thought-provoking sessions, and meaningful networking—an affordable, in-person opportunity to connect with colleagues, learn from leaders across Minnesota, and see what's moving and shaking in health education.
Refreshments:
Lunch, coffee, and snacks included! Please consider going eco-friendly and using a reusable beverage container.
Conference Objectives:
- Describe how SOPHE's strategic priorities support a prepared, connected, and engaged public health workforce and identify opportunities for professional involvement.
- Apply strengths-based and relationship-centered approaches that build resilience and effectiveness in public health practice.
- Analyze emerging public health challenges and identify opportunities for health educators to strengthen systems, policy, and community trust.
- Evaluate opportunities, ethical considerations, and practical applications of artificial intelligence to enhance health education and public health practice.
- Identify partnership strategies and innovative practices that strengthen health education initiatives and improve community health outcomes.
- Develop leadership and communication strategies that increase participants' ability to influence systems change, build partnerships, and advance health equity.
Conference Topics:
- Welcome From Minnesota SOPHE Chapter and National SOPHE
- Practice Wizards and Ordinary Magic (U of M Extension)
- The State of Public Health Now (Health and Democracy MN)
- Poster Sessions & Networking
- Public Health + AI Navigating What’s Next Panel
- Innovative Partnerships & Projects Panel
- Leadership Workshop
Audience:
Those who are interested in improving the health and wellbeing of Minnesota communities are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Discounts
If you are looking for a student sponsorship, please reach out for options.
If you are a group of 10 or more, discounts are available.
Please send an email to sopheminn@gmail.com for how we can best support you.
Venue:
Winona State University, Great River Ballroom (460 Washington St, Winona, MN)
Continuing Education Credits:
Coming soon! An application has been submitted to award Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES) and/or Master Certified Health Education Specialists (MCHES) up to a total of 6 Category I Continuing Education Contact Hours (CECH). A maximum of 6 Advanced-level CECH are available. The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. has approved SOPHE and its chapters as designated multiple event providers of CECH in health education.
Photo Release Policy:
MN SOPHE may be taking photos and videos throughout the event. By participating in our event, you are agreeing to waive all claims against MN SOPHE for any liability resulting from these uses.
For more information about the 2026 MN SOPHE Health Education Summit please contact us sopheminn@gmail.com
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