Some ideas deserve an encore.
Saturday, November 21, 2026
10:00 AM–1:30 PM Central | Live Virtual Event | 3 CE Hours
Some Ideas Deserve an Encore!
Join us for a special virtual learning experience featuring three returning presenters from the 2026 AATH Annual Conference.
Explore how humor can help us navigate difficult moments, strengthen connections, and bring compassion and perspective when it matters most.
Meet Your ENCORE Presenters.
Dr. Don Baird
That's NOT All Folks: If You Have to Leave Them, Why Not Leave Them Laughing?
Dr. Patrick Harris
When Humor Goes Wrong: Recognize, Repair & Reconnect
Karyn Buxman, RN, MSN, CHP, CSP, CPAE
Laughing in the Dark: Finding Light, Connection, and Courage Through Edge-of-Crisis Humor
Explore the ENCORE Sessions
Dr. Don Baird
That's NOT All Folks: If You Have to Leave Them, Why Not Leave Them Laughing?
The topic of coming to terms with death may sound like a grim undertaking (if you'll pardon the expression). But it doesn't have to be. You've heard of Art Appreciation—now come explore Life Appreciation! Discover how to make every day count, using humor to reflect on life's most meaningful topic. Let's learn how to laugh all the way to the very end.
Dr. Patrick Harris
When Humor Goes Wrong: Recognize, Repair & Reconnect
Ever cracked a joke that tanked spectacularly? This engaging, research-driven session unpacks the psychology of when humor goes wrong and why good intentions sometimes spark awkward silence and hurt feelings instead of laughter. Grounded in contemporary social, cognitive, and cultural psychology research, we'll explore how intention, emotion, and identity shape humor's success or failure. Join us to laugh, learn, and discover how to turn comedic misfires into opportunities for empathy, understanding, and authentic human connection.
Karyn Buxman, RN, MSN, CHP, CSP, CPAE
Laughing in the Dark: Finding Light, Connection, and Courage Through Edge-of-Crisis Humor
Ever laughed at the wrong time—like a funeral, staff meeting, or staff funeral? You're not alone! Join Hall of Fame speaker and recovering nurse Karyn Buxman for a hilarious and heartfelt look at why dark humor shows up when life goes sideways. Discover how laughter can heal, connect, and keep you sane—especially when everything else feels a little insane.
FEATURED PANEL DISCUSSION
Putting Humor to Work When It Matters
Join Don Baird, Patrick Harris, and Karyn Buxman for a conversation exploring practical ways to use humor thoughtfully, navigate challenging situations, and strengthen human connections.
Approved for 3 Contact/Clock Hours
This program has also been approved for 3 contact/clock hours by the Continuing Education Institute of Illinois, a continuing education sponsor licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for multiple health and allied health professionals. To learn where CEI-issued credit may be accepted, please review the state-by-state map at CEUPro.com.
Because licensing and credentialing requirements vary and are subject to change, participants are responsible for confirming with their licensing board or credentialing body that this program meets the requirements for credit.