The 2026 Dental Leadership Summit marks a bold evolution, transforming from a traditional meeting of industry minds into a fully immersive leadership experience. This year’s gathering is designed with greater intentionality for those who are not just observing the future of dentistry, but actively shaping it. Set in a retreat-style environment, the Summit will blend high-level strategy sessions with thoughtfully designed outdoor activations such as archery, horseback riding, and opportunities to reset in nature, creating space for deeper thinking and more meaningful connection. This is not about filling a room. It is about creating the right room where conversations move past surface-level networking into strategic collaboration. The mission remains the same: innovation, growth, and leadership within the dental industry—now elevated with an environment that inspires clarity, creativity, and decisive action.
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
WEDNESDAY
The 2026 Dental Leadership Summit kicks off on Wednesday with a warm welcome to attendees as they check in and settle into the resort. The day is designed for connection and relaxation, beginning with optional outdoor experiences like archery, trail hikes, and horseback riding. As evening falls, guests will gather for an opening reception and networking mixer, setting the tone for three days of collaboration, inspiration, and meaningful conversation.
September 16, 2026
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
THURSDAY
Thursday, the main event day, is dedicated to leadership, strategy, and the future of dentistry. The morning begins with coffee and connection, followed by a keynote session on the evolving landscape of dental leadership. Breakout sessions throughout the day dive into operations, marketing, and technology, while the much-anticipated DSO Diagnosis Panel brings together industry experts for a candid discussion on the state of group practices. Lunch and networking opportunities give attendees the chance to connect with sponsors and peers, leading into more breakout sessions focused on financial growth, AI, and culture. The day concludes with a lively networking happy hour and an intimate Summit Dinner—where insights and ideas flow as freely as the conversation.
September 17, 2026
Wednesday
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
FRIDAY
The Summit wraps up on Friday with a focus on reflection and application. Attendees will start the day with breakfast alongside industry experts before joining a hands-on workshop designed to help turn fresh ideas into actionable strategies. The morning continues with outdoor team activities bringing balance and camaraderie to the close of the experience. A final lunch and farewell moment allow attendees to leave recharged, reconnected, and ready to lead their practices into the future.
September 18, 2026
MEET THE SPEAKERS
Patt Bauer
CEO, Heartland Dental
Blair Primis
CGO, Orthocarolina
ALI Oromochian
CEO, HR for health
Jill Nesbitt
CEO, Optimize Dental Consulting
stephenie goddard
CEO, Glidewell Dental
Dr. Tim quirt
SVP, Heartland Dental
Brandi marzolino
Fractional COO,
Courage & Joy at Work
Preston Raulerson
President,
PDS Health technologies
Patt Bauer
CEO, Heartland Dental
An integral member of the Heartland Dental family since its infancy, Patrick Bauer brings more than 25 years in dental and healthcare operations management to the company.
Agenda
Join us in Austin!
FRIDAY
Recharge, reflect, and turn insights into action before heading home inspired, connected, and ready to lead.
SEPT 18
THURSDAY
Dive into a full day of leadership, strategy, and innovation with sessions, panels, and networking designed to move dentistry forward.
SEPT 17
SEPT 16
WEDNESDAY
Arrive, connect, and unwind as the Dental Leadership Summit begins with outdoor adventures and meaningful conversations under the mountain sky.
Agenda
FRIDAY
Recharge, reflect, and turn insights into action before heading home inspired, connected, and ready to lead.
SEPT 16
WEDNESDAY
Arrive, connect, and unwind as the Dental Leadership Summit begins with outdoor adventures and meaningful conversations under the mountain sky.
THURSDAY
Dive into a full day of leadership, strategy, and innovation with sessions, panels, and networking designed to move dentistry forward.
Join us in Austin!
SEPT 17
SEPT 18
This event is curated for dental industry leaders—practice owners, DSO executives, entrepreneurs, and innovators—who value strategy, connection, and wellness. Whether you lead a single practice or oversee multiple locations, the Summit is built to help you think bigger, lead better, and live more intentionally.
Who should attend the Dental Leadership Summit?
The Summit will be held at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa
in Cedar Creek, Texas - just 30 minutes outside of Austin. This luxury resort blends modern amenities with wide-open space for relaxation, reflection, and adventure. The venue offers the perfect balance between elevated comfort and natural beauty.
Where will the 2026 Summit take place?
Sponsorship opportunities are intentionally limited to maintain the Summit’s exclusive atmosphere. If your brand aligns with innovation, leadership, and excellence in dentistry, you can submit a partnership inquiry through our Sponsorship Interest Form. A member of our team will reach out to discuss custom opportunities that align with your goals.
How can I become a sponsor or partner?
We recommend arriving by Thursday morning to take full advantage of the welcome reception and opening experiences. Programming will conclude by Saturday evening, allowing attendees to enjoy a balanced mix of professional sessions and leisure activities throughout the event.
