Leadership in Action: Idaho Hospital Association Convention 2025 Showcases Innovation, Advocacy, and Rural Health Leadership

 

Sun Valley, ID – October 2025 — The Idaho Hospital Association (IHA) Annual Convention, held October 6–9 at the Sun Valley Resort, brought together healthcare leaders from across the state to collaborate, innovate, and advocate for the future of healthcare in Idaho. This year’s theme, “Maintaining Clarity in Chaos,” reflected the industry’s ongoing challenges and the resilience of Idaho’s hospitals in navigating them.

 

The convention featured a robust agenda of keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and policy discussions focused on leadership, finance, governance, quality, and compliance. Highlights included presentations from Rick Pollack, CEO American Hospital Association and Brian Whitlock, CEO Idaho Hospital Association (pictured below) providing their perspective on the landscape of healthcare given the current political landscape; as well as telemedicine expansion in rural communities, cybersecurity in healthcare, and clinician engagement in patient safety initiatives.

 

At the heart of this year’s event was Lenne Bonner, CEO of St. Mary’s Health and Clearwater Valley Health, who is serving as the 2025 Chair of the IHA Board of Directors. Bonner’s leadership was evident throughout the convention, from presiding over board meetings to hosting the Chairman’s Celebration, a signature event that honored healthcare excellence and community impact.

 

Bonner’s influence extends beyond the convention floor. Earlier this year, she led a delegation of Idaho healthcare executives to Washington, D.C., where they met with congressional leaders to advocate for Medicaid funding and rural health priorities. Her efforts have amplified the voice of Idaho’s rural hospitals at both the state and national levels.

 

“Lenne’s leadership exemplifies the mission of the IHA—to provide voice, value, and visibility for Idaho’s hospitals,” said Brian Whitlock, President and CEO of the Idaho Hospital Association. “Her commitment to rural health and policy advocacy is helping shape a stronger, more equitable healthcare system for all Idahoans.”

 

As the convention concluded, attendees left with renewed energy, actionable insights, and a shared commitment to advancing healthcare across Idaho. With leaders like Bonner at the helm, the future of Idaho’s hospitals looks both resilient and inspired.