Return Refreshed, Recharged, and Ready to Lead
Join us July 13–15 in Bonita Springs, Florida for our annual Summer Forum event! This year’s beautiful, tropical resort venue gives attendees nearby access to the beautiful beaches and attractions of Naples, Florida along with the opportunity to have fun in the sun, make lifetime connections, and learn from other respiratory therapy professionals from around the globe.
Across three action-packed days, you’ll choose from more than 30 expert-led sessions designed especially for respiratory care leaders, connect with cutting-edge exhibitors, and soak in the beauty of the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa.
Meet Your Speakers
Sarah Varekojis
PhD, RRT, RRT-ACCS, FAARC, FNAP
Columbus, OH
Jill Sand
MEd, RRT
Lincoln, NE
Carl Hinkson
MSc, RRT, RRT-NPS, RRT-ACCS, FAARC, FNAP
Marysville, WA
Monica Raich
RRT, RRT-ACCS, RRT-NPS, AE-C
Ashburn, VA
Schedule Highlights
Day 1 — July 13
Opening Session: Welcome Address, AARC President Dana Evans, MHA, RRT, RRT-NPS, FACHE, FAARC, FNAP
Lecture: S.P. “Sam” Giordano, MBA, RRT, FAARC Leadership Lecture Series — It’s a “We” Problem, Not a “They” Problem: Building the Evidence
Session Topics: Mentorship Skills, From Classroom to Clinical Practice, Student Mental Health, 3-Pen Method for Exam Reviews
Returning in 2026 — Expo Meet and Greet, 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
4.96 CRCE Available
Day 2 — July 14
Lectures: Jimmy Young Memorial Lecture: From Vision to Vital Role — The APRT Journey
Session Topics: Update on 2026 CoARC Entry into Practice Standards, Decision Fatigue, Neuro-inclusive Simulation Practices, Burnout
Symposiums: CoARC Symposium: Understanding the Landscape in Respiratory Care Education
Section Meetings: Leadership and Management, Education
4.33 CRCE Available
Day 3 — July 15
Opening Session: Agency Update
Lectures: Dr. H. Fred Helmholtz Education Lecture Series: Utilizing Simulation to Enhance Competency & Clinical Readiness
Session Topics: NBRC Maintenance, High Pressure Preparedness Simulation, Strategies for Integrating IPE
Closing Ceremony: Join us for this interactive closing keynote, Leading with YES, AND … that will equip you with practical tools drawn from improvisation and leadership science to leave you energized and prepared to lead more effectively
3.98 CRCE Available
Location
All AARC Summer Forum meetings will be held at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Springs, Florida. This luxury resort features superb service, modern, coastal-inspired ambience, and family–friendly amenities, including a spa, private island beach, world-class golf course, winding lazy river, water park, and so much more. Offering both rest, thrills, and fun, the resort has something for everyone. In addition, Bonita Springs is located just few short miles from Naples, Florida providing additional attractions and fun for all Summer Forum attendees.
Thank You to the 2026 AARC Corporate Partners
Corporate Partner support makes events like AARC Summer Forum possible.
Continuing Respiratory Care Education
AARC Summer Forum 2026 is approved for 13.27 CRCE.
