NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Black Directors Health Equity Agenda is hosting its 2025 National Summit in Nashville today and Tuesday, bringing board directors, CEOs, policymakers, funders and health care innovators together to tackle persistent inequities in access and outcomes, looming workforce shortages, and the promise and risks of artificial intelligence in care delivery.
The two-day conference, held in partnership with Meharry Medical College’s School of Global Health, features sessions on shifting economic and policy realities, AI bias and governance, and aligning financial strategies among health care leaders, investors and payors. The event includes breakout discussions and networking; registration includes a one-year BDHEA membership.
“Health care organizations face intense financial, workforce and policy headwinds,” BDHEA Executive Director Deborah Phillips said. “By equipping leaders with proven strategies and practical tools, the 2025 BDHEA National Summit will be a catalyst for stronger governance, resource innovation and better health for all.”
Founded in 2020, BDHEA describes itself as a national platform led by Black board directors and senior health care executives focused on eliminating disparities through governance-level leadership. The group says recent work includes a Health Equity Toolkit with playbooks and resources on governance, ESG, decarbonization and community health, as well as alliances with organizations such as the American Hospital Association, Deloitte and EY.
“The scope of the BDHEA’s interest, from health equity and health policy to innovation in health care, speaks to the future of making all humanity whole,” said James E.K. Hildreth, president and CEO of Meharry Medical College. “The BDHEA’s commitment to a healthier world for everyone aligns with Meharry’s 150-year-old mission.”
Phillips said attendees are expected to leave “equipped with new governance strategies, connections and practical solutions that can be implemented immediately.”
The summit, themed “Innovating for Impact: Bold Strategies, Breakthrough Solutions and Powerful Collaborations,” takes place at the Hutton Hotel. Registration is $950. More information: BDHEA.org/events.
