Summer 2026: HCAT Important Announcements & Opportunities

August 27, 2026

President’s Message:

Greetings HCAT Members,

Happy Summer! Please take a few minutes to browse our exciting opportunities ahead! Read on for more details.

This newsletter provides updates on the following key topics:

  • Reminder: Free support to complete your FACHE
  • Register Today: District 2 Mini-Congress
  • Quarter two event highlights + upcoming opportunities- TWO NEW events added!
  • Announcement: 2026 Regent Award Nomination Period is Open

Thank you for being part of our chapter and for all that you do each day to advance healthcare in your community.

Alex Ritchie, MHA
2026 HCAT President
axritchi@sentara.com
hcatva@gmail.com

Regent Message- Awards Open!

Dear Colleagues,
I am pleased to announce that the nomination period is now open for the 2026 ACHE
Central Virginia Regent Awards.
This is a wonderful opportunity to recognize healthcare leaders and celebrate the
impact and value they bring to the profession. The Regent Advisory Council looks
forward to reviewing your nominations and selecting up to five award recipients.
The following award categories are open for submission:

  • Early Careerist Award (5–10 years of experience preferred)
  • Senior Level Award (15–20 years of experience preferred)
  • Student Award (currently enrolled)
  • Distinguished Service Award (for sustained, significant contributions throughout a
    career)
  • Outstanding Achievement Award (for excellence in innovation or complex problem-
    solving)
    Please review the nomination form and award criteria for additional details. Successful
    candidates will demonstrate effective leadership that aligns with ACHE’s values.
    Nominations will be accepted through September 7, 2026. Award recipients will be
    recognized at their respective facilities, providing an opportunity to celebrate with their
    colleagues.
    Thank you in advance for supporting ACHE’s efforts to recognize deserving healthcare
    leaders in our community. I look forward to receiving your submissions.
    Best,
    Jessica

Reminder: FREE Support to Advance to Fellow: Get Started in your FACHE Today! 

Being an active member of HCAT also provides you with access to several member benefits to help you along the way:

  • Chapter will cover the cost of your Board of Governors Exam
  • Access to study materials
  • Access to educational credits and volunteer opportunities that are required to apply
  • Connection to mentors/other members who have their FACHE Credential
  • Opportunity to schedule a brief virtual or in-person consult chat with chapter leadership to discuss the process in more detail and have all of your questions answered


If you have any questions or need support along the way, we’re here to support you.
Email us if you plan on obtaining your FACHE in 2026!

Event Highlight + Upcoming

Event Highlight: District 2 Mini Congress! Want to obtain several credits in a short time? Register to attend today!
Registration Link: https://cvheg.org/event/district-2-mini-congress/

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Attention new members! In Q1, we also launched our new member monthly virtual coffee chat series! Join us to learn more about the organization and all of your benefits as a new member. Email membership chair Kristyn Worthley (kasawye1@sentara.com) for more info! 

We have plenty of additional opportunities to attend an education session in 2026- please see below for our event list! 

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