THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
8:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. |
Registration |
8:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. |
Breakfast & Business Meeting Sponsored by Art of Tea, Nestle Professional Solutions, Sysco and Torani Over breakfast, hear about the state of the Society, the activity of select committees and the work of our Foundation, as SHFM leadership conducts the annual business meeting. |
9:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. |
General Session - My Flavor: How I Found It and Why I Share ItFlavorHospitality ExcellenceInspiring Sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company and Compass Group           Jessica Zucker, Vice President of Marketing Innovation & Strategy, Eurest/Compass Group (Moderator) James Beard Award-winning chef, author and restaurateur, Kwame Onwuachi shares details from his personal journey that led him to a place where intentional storytelling through the cuisine of his ancestors means so much more than delicious dining experiences. Gain unparalleled insights into achieving significant success, driving growth and championing inclusivity in culinary trends. This is your chance to elevate your workplace hospitality operations with a visionary who proves that food can be a powerful vehicle for boundless possibilities. |
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. |
Innovation Showcase
This will be your last chance to visit sponsors who will be exhibiting their latest innovations in products and services in a changing world. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn what’s new from key representatives. Please be sure to show your support to our generous sponsors, who have made this conference possible, by browsing their innovations! |
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. |
Student /Fellow Session
Building Relationships and Successful Networking Mboone Umbima, David Rio Chai During this session, we will hear a TedTalk on how to be successful in networking and then we will take some time to explore the innovation showcase. |
12:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
Innovation Showcase Exhibitor Tear Down |
12:45 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
Lunch with Hunger Games Check Presentation & Innovation Showcase Awards Sponsored by Agilysys, Bevi (Hydration Labs, inc), Electrolux Professional Group, Kitchens To Go, RC Fine Foods,VerTerra, The Vollrath Company, LLC and Wasserstrom Attend this lunch featuring, the Hunger Games check presentation to Food Now and the 2025 Innovation Showcase Award recipients will be announced. |
 2:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. |
General Session -
Amplifying the Amenity Experience: A Taste of What’s Possible Sponsored by Aramark Helen Wechsler, Senior Director of Global Food Program, Google (Moderator) This insightful session explores the transformative power of design through the lens of amenities. Hear from expert client liaisons and designer perspectives as they share tangible lessons learned from real-world projects. Dive deep into effective strategies and learn how to navigate the challenges faced along the way that come with creating impactful spaces. Discover how intentional design choices can authentically reflect and enhance a company's culture and identity. Additionally, we will tackle future-forward design elements that adapt to ever-evolving work dynamics, ensuring spaces remain relevant. Expect to uncover innovative ideas that successfully enhance the amenity experience. Amplify your approach to creating vibrant and functional environments that resonate in the workplace! |
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
Committee & Board Meetings
You don’t need to be a current SHFM committee member to attend. Just sit in with the group of your choice for coffee and committee. |
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
Student /Fellow Session
Go Behind the Scenes with the Renaissance Hotel Team Discover the innovative water conservation efforts happening in the guest rooms and surrounding lake on property. Get an insider’s look at the kitchen, conference space and the heart of hotel operations. See sustainability and hospitality in action at the Renaissance! |
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. |
Work Catch Up Break |
6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. |
President’s Reception Sponsored by CFS Brands, Instawork, ITW Food Equipment Group, MEIKO USA, Inc., Middleby, Premier Metal & Glass "PMG", and Tech24  View Event Attire Information |
6:45 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. |
President’s Banquet Join us for this incredible evening with special award presentations and the passing of the gavel from 2025 President Shayne Varnum to 2026 President Jenna Calhoun. |
9:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. |
After-Party Sponsored by 50/50 Foods, Advanced Natural Group, Cini-Little International, Inc., Ecolab, National Food Group and Pilgrim's Pride The party is just getting started - are you ready to join us? Continue the evening celebration, SHFM style! |
EXPLORE INNOVATIONS
Wednesday and Thursday are your opportunities to engage directly with exhibitors and discover their latest advancements in products and services. Plan ahead to the make the most of your time to connect with key representatives and see what's new!
