Highlighted Event
100 Top Hospitals® Awards Gala
October 7–8, 2026 | Awards Gala: Evening of October 8
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
201 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Event Beginning:
October 7, 2026
Event Ending:
October 8, 2026
As a recognized honoree, you are invited to join us for a two-day experience at the Breakthroughs Conference, taking place October 7–8, 2026 in National Harbor, MD.
October 7: Breakthroughs Conference programming and networking
October 8 (Daytime): Continued conference sessions
October 8 (Evening): 100 Top Hospitals® Awards Gala — the signature celebration and highlight of the event
During this special evening, we will honor your organization’s achievement as a 100 Top Hospitals®, 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospitals®, and/or 15 Top Health Systems® winner.
The Awards Gala is a semi-formal event and serves as the centerpiece of this two-day gathering — an unforgettable night recognizing excellence in healthcare.
Keynote Speaker
Jake Haendel
Jake Haendel is the only documented survivor of stage-four Acute Toxic Progressive Leukoencephalopathy, a rare and typically fatal brain disease that left him fully conscious but unable to move, speak, or breathe on his own.
Since beginning his extraordinary recovery in 2021, Jake has become a leading voice for resilience, disability, and mental health. Jake’s keynote will offer a powerful and inspiring perspective on perseverance and the strength of the human spirit.
Contact Information & Event Questions
If you have any questions about this event, email our travel department.