Every year, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) leaders from across the country gather at the National Council for Mental Wellbeing’s MHFA Summit to sharpen their skills, build connections and gain insight into emerging trends. We spoke with MHFA’s Lead Advisor for Strategic Programs, Nicole Cadovius (center), to explore what makes the event so impactful.
What is the MHFA Summit all about?
“The MHFA Summit is designed specifically for MHFA Instructors, Coordinators and National Trainers. It’s a space where people deeply committed to mental health education come together to learn, connect and strengthen the MHFA movement. By blending professional development with community-building and networking, the MHFA Summit gives attendees practical tools, fresh ideas and renewed inspiration to continue making a meaningful difference in their communities.”
Why does the National Council host the event each year?
“The MHFA Summit celebrates the impact leaders are making nationwide while it supports their continued growth. It’s a place to share new research, tools and best practices, and to strengthen the skills of those leading mental health education in their communities. Equally important, the event fosters a strong sense of unity and shared purpose. By highlighting the real-world impact of MHFA on individuals, workplaces and communities, it reinforces that this work matters — and that no one in the movement is doing it alone.”
What do you enjoy most about working on the MHFA Summit?
“After leading the MHFA Summit for the past three years, what stands out most to me is the energy. There’s something incredibly powerful about being in a room full of people who genuinely care about helping others. The stories shared, the connections formed and the ‘aha’ moments during sessions stay with me long after the event ends. I also love watching the community evolve year after year. Each MHFA Summit brings new voices, fresh ideas and growing momentum, and it’s a privilege to help shape an event that fuels so much positive change across the mental health field.”
What can attendees look forward to at this year’s event?
“This year’s MHFA Summit will offer a thoughtful mix of inspiration, education and hands-on learning. Attendees can expect expert-led workshops exploring emerging mental health topics, alongside skill-building sessions designed for both new and experienced Instructors. The event will also feature research updates to deepen our understanding of current mental health trends, opportunities to connect with peers from across the country and powerful stories of impact that highlight the real difference MHFA continues to make in communities nationwide. No matter an attendee’s experience level or goals, there will be something meaningful to take away.”
What would you say to someone who’s on the fence about attending?
“If you’re unsure about attending, consider this: The MHFA Summit is more than an event — it’s an investment in your growth, your confidence and your ability to support others. You’ll leave with new tools you can put into practice immediately, a deeper sense of purpose and connections with people who truly understand your passion for mental health education. Many first-time attendees say they wish they had come sooner. If you care about mental health education and want to feel energized, supported and inspired in your work, the MHFA Summit is where you’ll feel at home.”
Ready to make an even bigger impact in your community? Join us at the 2026 MHFA Summit in Denver on Sunday, April 26, for a full day of inspiration, learning and collaboration!
