Hearts and Minds: THE Employee Experience Strategy for the 21st Century
Thursday, May 21, 2026 (2:00 PM - 3:00 PM) (CDT)
Description
Session Description
In a labor market where nearly every organization claims to “care,” culture is the true differentiator—and recognition sits at its core. More than praise, meaningful recognition transforms values into visible action and connects daily work to shared purpose. When recognition is systematic, specific, and story-driven, it becomes a powerful driver of retention, engagement, and clinical quality.
Research shows effective recognition programs are among the most powerful and cost-effective tools available to care providers. Harvard Business Review identifies recognition as essential for healthcare professionals motivated by service and meaning. Organizations that invest in authentic recognition see reduced burnout, stronger teamwork, and measurable improvements in patient and resident outcomes.
This session explores the science of recognition and offers practical insights into how story-driven acknowledgment strengthens culture, builds trust across care teams, and helps organizations stand out as true employers of choice.
Presenter – Nate Hamme, President Ceca Foundation
Nate Hamme is President of Ceca, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and strategic partner to healthcare providers focused on strengthening workforce engagement, retention and the resident experience.
For over a decade, Nate and his team have developed innovative approaches to engaging senior care workforces that measure the impact of employee-client satisfaction programs. His background in culture building, leadership, data analysis and the social sciences provide a unique lens into how systems and programs shape the human experience.
Nate has written features for major industry publications and national media, and spoken extensively on staffing retention through keynotes and education sessions for healthcare associations nationwide.