Welcome back to the Kansas City Courier, your go-to guide for the latest news, can’t-miss updates, and insider tips for our 2026 Annual Convention happening on Oct. 3-6 in Kansas City. 

Curious to learn more about what’s on the agenda? Check out our schedule-at-a-glance.

NCPA is accepting nominations for one of independent pharmacy's most prestigious honors, the 2026 Willard B. Simmons Independent Pharmacist of the Year Award. This award recognizes an independent pharmacist for exceptional leadership and commitment to independent pharmacy and the community. The nominations deadline is July 15.

The award recipient will receive an engraved commemorative plaque, a $1,000 cash award, a $1,000 contribution to the school/college of pharmacy of their choice, and travel expenses to NCPA's Annual Convention in Kansas City, Mo., including coach airfare, up to three nights' accommodations, and complimentary registration for the recipient and a guest.

Know someone who deserves this recognition? Learn more and submit a nomination.

We've made it easy to spread the word with our social media toolkit! From ready-to-use captions to eye-catching graphics, you'll find everything you need to let your network know you're heading to this year's Annual Convention. Access the toolkit here.

Happening in K.C. on Thursday, Oct. 1, and Friday, Oct. 2, we are hosting several workshops that offer in-depth insights into issues shaping the business and practice of pharmacy today. These hands-on courses will cover the fundamentals of pharmacy ownership, real-world applications for AI technology, long-term care pharmacy at home, and ways to advance your existing LTC pharmacy services.

Learn more and register for our pre-convention workshops.

Please note: To sign up for pre-convention courses, you must register through the convention registration process, even if you’re not attending the full convention. Separate registration fees apply.

As America celebrates 250 years of history and culture, experience one of the nation's greatest original art forms in the heart of Kansas City. Located in the historic 18th and Vine District, the American Jazz Museum brings the story of jazz to life through interactive exhibits, live performances, and the inspiring stories of legends like Kansas City native Charlie Parker, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and many more.

Whether you have some downtime or are extending your stay before or after our Annual Convention, the museum offers a memorable way to celebrate America's rich cultural heritage while exploring the city that helped shape jazz's enduring legacy.

Learn more and purchase tickets.

Curious about who’ll be on the expo floor? See the up-to-date lineup!