PLA Alumni Events

  • We have created a fusion of two of our most popular PLA Alumni traditions - Meditation with Janice AND Campfire for Connection!

    Janice will be opening up her “Garage of Awareness” meditation space for a special evening of community practice, followed by gathering around the fire pit in her yard.  Feel supported by stillness on the cushion, followed by time spent with your PLA friends around the fire in a lovely outdoor space.  Soup, S’mores and beverages will be provided.  Janice has meditation cushions, but please bring a chair for gathering around the fire pit.

    Wednesday, September 30 from 5:30-8:00 pm

    Hilliard address will be provided to attendees prior to event.

    REGISTER HERE

  • Details coming soon.

Past Alumni Events

2023-2024

2025-2026

  • The evening couldn’t have been more perfect! With delicious vegan and regular chili, warm cornbread, gooey S’mores, and the incredible company of our PLA Alumni, our Campfire for Connecting was truly unforgettable.

    It was a night filled with laughter, stories, and genuine connection — a chance to unwind, enjoy nature’s embrace, and simply be in the company of wonderful people. Conversations flowed easily as we shared both the big things and the little moments that make life meaningful.

    Here’s to more nights like this — full of warmth, community, and the joy of being together. 🔥✨

  • Our PLA Alumni gathered for an inspiring evening of Personal Transformation with PLA Faculty Jim Marsden, who supports people and organizations around the world through transformative shifts. Together, we explored new perspectives on life and reflected on how to create a life aligned with what matters most.

    It was a valuable and engaging session filled with insight, conversation, and connection.💙

  • We recently hosted an amazing PLA community event with Phil and Steph focused on approaching the most challenging conversations.

    While we often practice difficult conversations in clinical settings, this session explored how to navigate sensitive dialogue in our personal and professional lives—especially when conflict, misunderstanding, or the desire to be liked holds us back.

    Through thoughtful discussion, participants learned how to find their voice, create understanding, and strengthen relationships.

    The evening was filled with meaningful conversation, connection, and learning, all shared over a light dinner.

    Thank you to Myriad Genetics for their generous support in making this event free for our PLA community.

  • On February 21, PLA alumni gathered for a refreshing Winter Stillness Hike at Quarry Trails Metro Park, led by Dr. Stephanie Costa. On February 21, PLA alumni gathered for a Winter Stillness Hike at Quarry Trails Metro Park, led by Dr. Stephanie Costa. Participants explored the park’s scenic lakes, unique geology, and 25-foot waterfall while enjoying the quiet beauty of a winter morning together.

  • Chris Corrigan, PLA master teacher on Complexity Theory, returned by popular demand to introduce the Two Loops Model, a framework that illustrates how change occurs within living systems. Participants explored how understanding the relationship between legacy systems and emerging systems can help leaders navigate transitions and guide their organizations through the rapid changes occurring in healthcare today.

  • Our PLA community enjoyed a fun afternoon of connection, laughter, and friendly competition at Topgolf with Dr. Stephanie Costa. Guests gathered to recharge, reconnect, and enjoy great food, drinks, and conversation.

    Special thanks to Myriad Genetics for their generous sponsorship, which made this complimentary event possible for our PLA community.

  • 🌿On September 28th, PLA alumna Dr. Bonnie Pugh led a breath workshop that emphasized the profound connection between breath, ourselves, others, and nature. The quote by Dan Brule, "Breath is the link between mind and body" encapsulates the essence of the workshop. Conscious and intentional breathing has long been recognized for its ability to influence both mental and physical well-being.Bonnie's leadership in facilitating such a workshop reflects a commitment to holistic well-being and recognizes the importance of incorporating mindfulness into our routines. Thank you Bonnie!🌿

  • The November kickoff couldn’t have been more perfect! Vegan chili, regular chili, cornbread, S’mores, and the incredible company of our PLA Alumni made for an unforgettable Campfire Council on 11/01/2023.
    It was a night of laughter, stories, and genuine connections - a moment to unwind, enjoy nature's embrace, and simply be in the company of wonderful people. We discussed everything and nothing, savoring the simple joys of life.

  • On October 16th. Did you hear Jim Drescher calling? Our PLA Alumni did and experienced a lovely evening. Nature was our classroom, and our thoughts brought us back to what we longed for.

    "Look deep into nature and then you will understand everything better." - Albert Einstein 🍁

  • Coaching Fundamentals for Leaders Session " with the amazing PLA coaches, Terry Slayman MD and Stephanie Costa MD! Explored Spot coaching benefits, Covered basic coaching fundamentals, and Empowered to create a coaching culture at work. Thanks to all who joined! Stay tuned for more exciting events.

  • We celebrated 10 amazing years at the Physicians Leadership Academy with a heartwarming reunion, filled with laughter, memories, and cherished connections. Thank you to everyone who made it so special!

  • Thank you everyone who joined us on the exclusive session led by the master teacher himself, Chris Corrigan, on Complexity Theory on January-13th 2024!
    This session presented an exceptional opportunity to delve into the intricacies of Complexity Theory and discover its practical applications firsthand.

  • We had an inspiring afternoon with Arawana and Janice, two meditation masters, at our PLA Alumni gathering. It was a great opportunity for camaraderie and learning!

  • We had a wonderful time with PLA Friends at Blendon Woods Metro Park, embracing spring's beauty! 🌿
    We explored the park's ravines, wildflowers, and forests, enjoying unique birdwatching spots and delicious coffee, tea, and orange juice together.
    Thank you to all who joined us for this memorable day! 🌼

  • Thank you to all who joined us for a calming and empowering Qigong session led by Ivonne Begue de Benzo, MS. Through mindful movement and breath, we explored the power of presence, wellness, and balance.

    It was a meaningful evening of restoration and connection. We’re grateful for your participation!

2024-2025

  • We’re excited to share that PLA’s Campfire Council was a warm evening of stories, laughter, and connection. Alumni reconnected over chili, Dr. Cass’s apple cider, and delicious s’mores with extra-large marshmallows and dark chocolate.

    It was a memorable night of community and reflection for all who attended!

  • What an amazing event! We were deeply transformed by the soothing sound waves led by Akta Malik. It was the perfect way to unwind and reconnect before the holidays.

    The evening provided profound relaxation, emotional healing, and a peaceful atmosphere—enhanced by wraps, snacks, and antioxidative drinks.

    A big thank you to Akta and everyone who joined us for this unforgettable experience!

  • In the art of Kintsugi, broken pottery was repaired with gold, turning cracks into beautiful, unique patterns. This Japanese tradition celebrated resilience, showing how challenges add value and beauty to our story. Facilitated by Bonnie Pugh, we explored how Kintsugi inspires us to see setbacks as opportunities for growth, turning our own cracks into golden lines of discovery.

  • We were honored to welcome Healthcare Attorney John Carney for an informative and empowering session on the legal considerations that impact every stage of a medical career.

    Participants gained valuable insights into navigating the legal landscape of healthcare—moving beyond fear and assumptions, and instead practicing from a place of knowledge and confidence.

    Thank you to everyone who joined us for this important conversation on protecting and advocating for yourself legally in medicine.

  • Chris Corrigan, PLA master teacher on Complexity Theory, returned by popular demand for another powerful session. He deepened our understanding of complexity and offered practical tools to tackle real-world leadership challenges.

    Participants walked away with insights they could apply immediately.

  • PLA alumni gathered for an invigorating afternoon of meditation and mindfulness with Janice and Arawana. Whether seasoned in practice or newly returning to the cushion, participants enjoyed grounding breathwork, meaningful connection, and light refreshments in a warm, welcoming space.

  • Dr. Terry Slayman led a powerful session on applying the Enneagram to medical leadership and patient care. Physicians explored how self-awareness enhances communication, decision-making, and the healing process.

  • Alumni enjoyed a relaxing Tai Chi session led by Diane Brogan Habash. We learned gentle movements that supported balance, stress relief, and the art of fàng sōng—letting go. Guided by the spirit of wu wei, we moved with ease and connected in a calm, welcoming space.

The Physician’s Leadership Academy wishes to thank Myriad Genetics for their generous support of PLA Alumni Events.

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