ConnAPA welcomed PAs, PA students, speakers, and healthcare partners to Water’s Edge Resort & Spa in Westbrook for the 2026 Charter Oak Conference. The move to a new waterfront venue brought fresh energy to ConnAPA’s signature annual event while preserving the educational opportunities, professional connections, and traditions attendees have come to value.
Over three days, participants had access to an outstanding lineup of speakers and more than 30 continuing medical education credit opportunities. Sessions addressed a broad range of timely clinical topics, giving attendees practical information and strategies they could bring back to their patients and practices.
Hands-on workshops offered an opportunity to take that learning a step further. Attendees strengthened their skills through interactive sessions focused on EKG interpretation, point-of-care ultrasound, and suturing. These workshops provided valuable opportunities to practice essential techniques and learn directly from experienced instructors.
Beyond the educational sessions, the conference created space for members to reconnect with colleagues, form new professional relationships, and engage with the broader ConnAPA community.
The Welcome Reception set the tone for the conference with an evening of conversation and connection. The reception also featured the annual PA Foundation raffle and fundraising event, allowing attendees to support an important cause while enjoying the festivities.
PA student poster presentations were another highlight of the evening. The presentations showcased the research, knowledge, and creativity of Connecticut’s future PAs and gave students an opportunity to share their work with practicing professionals. Their participation served as an inspiring reminder of the talent and promise entering the profession.
The return of Trivia Night brought some friendly competition to the conference. A longtime attendee favorite, the event once again filled the room with teamwork, laughter, and plenty of spirited debate as participants put their knowledge to the test.
ConnAPA concluded the three-day gathering with its annual business luncheon, featuring guest speaker Jason Previlige, AAPA Past President. His participation provided a fitting close to a conference centered on professional growth, leadership, and the future of the PA profession.
The 2026 Charter Oak Conference was made possible by the dedication of the Conference and Education Committee, ConnAPA’s staff and volunteers, the event’s knowledgeable speakers, and the generous exhibitors and sponsors who continue to support the Academy’s mission. Their combined efforts helped make the transition to Water’s Edge a success and created a memorable experience for everyone who attended.
From engaging educational sessions and practical workshops to student scholarship and renewed traditions, the 2026 conference offered something for every member of the PA community. Most importantly, it demonstrated the value of gathering in person to learn from one another, strengthen professional relationships, and celebrate the profession.
Thank you to everyone who joined us at Water’s Edge and helped make the 2026 Charter Oak Conference one to remember. We look forward to building on this year’s success when the PA community comes together again for the 2027 Charter Oak Conference, March 21–23.