Industry Expert Hoffman to Lead Three Educational Sessions at 2026 RCRI National Conference

Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc. will present three educational sessions at the 2026 Resource Center for Religious Institutes (RCRI) National Conference, Nov. 2-5 in St. Louis. The conference marks Hoffman's 16th appearance as a presenter in the past 18 years.

The annual conference brings together leaders from religious congregations to discuss emerging challenges, share best practices, and explore strategies for strengthening their communities and preparing for the future.

Hoffman's presentations include:

• "The IHM Case Study: Right Sizing, Solar, and So Much More" (Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.): Julie Heiberger, Henry Hundt, and Jon Rynish will join Dawn Barnett, director of operations for the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) Sisters in Malvern, Pennsylvania, to discuss the congregation's campus master planning journey, including “right-sizing” its campus, incorporating sustainability initiatives, and planning for future needs.
  
  
• "Preparing for the Next Chapter in the Life of a Congregation" (Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 4 to 5:30 p.m.): Sr. Jane Herb, IHM, Hoffman religious consultant, will lead a panel of congregational leaders from across the country to discuss leadership succession, governance, workforce planning, sponsored ministries, and other considerations as congregations adapt to changing demographics. Fellow panelists include Sr. Patricia Homan, OSU, congregational minister for the Ursulines of Brown County in Fayetteville, Ohio; Sr. Marcia Ann Fiutko, FSSJ, general minister for the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph in Buffalo, New York; Sr. Rosina Conrotto, PBVM, a member of the Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in San Francisco; David P. O’Brien, CFA, chief financial officer for the Province of St. John the Baptist; and Fr. Larry Ford, OFM, guardian of the St. Bonaventure University Friary for the Franciscan Friars of Our Lady of Guadalupe Province in Atlanta.
  
  
• "They're Using It How? Identifying Community Needs & Alternative Building Uses" (Wednesday, Nov. 4, from 9 to 10:30 a.m.): Julie Heiberger, Sr. Jane Herb, IHM, and Mike Edwin will examine how congregations are identifying community needs and evaluating options for underused facilities, including repurposing, retaining, or selling properties.

The presentations will highlight planning strategies and real-world case studies designed to help religious congregations address evolving organizational and facility needs.

"We're always inspired by the meaningful conversations that take place at RCRI," said Julie Heiberger, religious and senior living markets leader at Hoffman. "It's a privilege to share our experience and collaborate with leaders who are planning for the future of their communities."

To learn more about Hoffman’s senior living and religious experience, visit https://www.hoffman.net/markets.

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Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc. is an Appleton-based design and construction management firm whose mission is to make a positive impact on people’s lives and their environment by providing creative ideas and responsible solutions. Serving as their ally, agent, and advocate, Hoffman always places their clients’ best interests first, focusing on transparency, collaboration, and fiscal responsibility. Hoffman’s integrated project delivery approach results in high performance and cost-effective building solutions that respect the environment, enhance long-term value, reduce lifecycle facility costs, and deliver to their clients more building for their budget. Learn more at www.hoffman.net.