Annual Conference

Join us for the Senior Living Event of the Year! The Rhode Island Assisted Living Association (RIALA) is thrilled to host its 27th Annual Conference & Expo on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick, Rhode Island. This in-person event will bring together senior living professionals, industry experts, and 50+ exhibitors for a day full of learning, networking, and innovation in the field of assisted living.

This year’s theme, Innovating Care: Motivational, Inspiration, at a time of constant change and challenge, this conference aims to inspire resilience, unity, and innovation. Together, we will reflect on why this work matters, reconnect with our shared mission, and leave empowered to create positive change within our communities.

CONFERENCE PRESENTING SPONSOR

OPENING KEYNOTE SESSION

Keynote Speaker: Gail Alofsin, URI

Gail Lowney Alofsin is an international keynote speaker, author, educator, and trusted voice in leadership, mindset and personal growth. She is known for her ability to connect deeply, motivate authentically and leave people feeling energized and empowered. Gail’s career has been centered on Sales, Marketing, Event Production, Corporate Sponsorship and Business Development. She has served as Adjunct Faculty at the University of Rhode Island for over 25 years and is currently the Associate Director of Corporate Partnerships for the URI’s Office of Strategic Initiatives where she can bring Workplace and Leadership Development to your team. Gail serves on several nonprofit boards focused on education, hunger, health, and business. Gail’s book, Your Someday is NOW – What are you Waiting For?, now in its second printing, has raised over $55,000 for non-profit organizations.

In this energizing and deeply relatable keynote, you will be inspired to reconnect with why you do what you do, rediscover your personal and professional purpose and reignite the positivity that fuels outstanding care! Motivation does not magically appear – it is something you choose.

Through relatable stories, practical mindset shifts and uplifting insights, you will be reminded that how YOU show up everyday matters - to residents, families and colleagues. The bottom line? When YOU lead with purpose, manage your energy with intention and choose positivity – you build a culture of success, one action at a time.

As a returning speaker to RIALA, Gail understands the heart and dedication required by you and your team to serve with compassion and excellence. You will depart with enhanced productivity, renewed passion and extraordinary focus to incite legacy results. Ready? Set?…it’s GO Time!

AFTERNOON KEYNOTE SESSION

Keynote Speaker: Neil Wood, Neil Wood Consultanting

He is also a nationally recognized speaker and trainer with more than 30 years of experience helping professionals strengthen their mindset, elevate determination, and achieve meaningful goals. With a background in financial services, leadership development, and performance coaching, Neil delivers high-impact presentations that inspire individuals and teams to take ownership of their attitude, refine their daily habits, and pursue excellence with clarity and accountability.

Growing up on welfare in Woonsocket, RI during the 1960s, Neil began reading books on success, attitude, and personal development as a teenager—setting the foundation for a lifetime of learning and achievement. His presentations draw from his own journey as well as insights from hundreds of successful people he has studied and worked with. Through powerful stories and practical lessons, Neil teaches the principles of determination, discipline, mindset, attitude, and the courage to overcome fears and obstacles.

Neil has written and published five books, spoken to more than 50,000 people, and brings a unique blend of grit and resilience shaped by his service as an Air Force Veteran with Top-Secret clearance. A lifelong athlete, he qualified for the 1984 U.S. Olympic Trials with a marathon victory in 2:17, (two hours and seventeen minutes) a testament to his belief in hard work, focus, determination, and relentless preparation.

Neil is the proud father of three adult children and lives in Hull/Nantasket Beach, Massachusetts, with his wife, Ellen.

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND?

Earn CEU Credits: All sessions are approved for AL and NH administrator continuing education credits.
Informative Educational Sessions: A comprehensive lineup of topics focused on the latest trends, best practices, and solutions in senior living.
Meals Included: Enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch, perfect for both learning and networking.
Networking Opportunities: Engage with industry peers, connect with exhibitors, and discover products and services tailored to your needs.

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS: This program has been approved for Continuing Education for 4.75 total participant hours by NAB/NCERS—Approval #20260501-6.75-A112519-IN.

SPONSORSHIP & EXHIBIT OPPORTUNITIES

The 2026 RIALA Annual Conference & Expo offers a unique opportunity to showcase your brand, products, and services to a highly engaged audience of senior living professionals. With over 50 exhibitors and a diverse group of industry leaders in attendance, this event is the perfect platform to connect with decision-makers, build relationships, and strengthen your presence in the senior living community.

Sponsorship and Exhibit Opportunities include prominent visibility, access to key decision-makers, and the chance to highlight your innovative solutions in front of professionals committed to improving care. Whether you’re looking to sponsor a session, host a networking event, or exhibit your products, there are multiple ways to engage with an influential audience.

Secure your spot today and be part of shaping the future of senior living! Download the Sponsorship & Exhibit Kit for more details.