Why Attend?
Yes, and… The Power of Possibility
The workplace is evolving faster than ever and the most successful leaders are those willing to embrace what's next. At SHFM National Conference 2026, you'll discover how the "Yes, And..." mindset can unlock new opportunities for workplace hospitality, employee experience, foodservice, technology and beyond.
In Chicago, the birthplace of improv, we'll explore how innovation happens when we build on ideas instead of limiting them. Through thought-provoking education, industry-leading speakers and meaningful peer connections, you'll gain practical strategies to elevate your workplace experience and strengthen your business impact.
Attend to:
- Discover emerging trends shaping workplace hospitality
- Learn innovative solutions from industry leaders and peers
- Expand your professional network and exchange ideas
- Return with actionable insights that drive value for your organization
Say "Yes" to learning. "And" to growth, connection and possibility.
Registration Fees
The conference registration fee includes the cost of attendance at all general sessions, innovation showcase and networking events. While you're registering, take a moment to update your profile in the database so your name badge is ready to go. Not sure what best describes your position? Learn more here.
|
Early Bird Registration On or Before September 9 |
Registration On or After September 10 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Member | $1,175 | $1,275 |
| Non-Member | $1,625 | $1,725 |
| Wednesday, October 7 – Day Pass | $825 | $825 |
| Thursday, October 8 – Day Pass | $825 | $825 |
Cancellation: Cancellations must be submitted in writing to SHFM by Wednesday, September 9, 2026. There will be no refunds for cancellations received after this date. “No Shows” will be charged at the full conference rate.
If you need to make changes to your registration or have any questions regarding the registration process, please call SHFM Headquarters at (502) 574-9931 or email shfm@hqtrs.com.
OPTIONAL EVENTS & GUEST FEES
(Additional cost for participation)
The Foundation Golf Tournament, Chicago Architecture Boat Tour, Chicago Favorites Walking & Food Tour and Hunger Games are optional events available for an additional fee. Pricing varies by activity; please refer to each event for details.
Guests may also participate in select social functions, planned meals and optional events for an additional fee. A guest package and/or à la carte options are available to provide flexibility. Guest registration is intended for spouses or partners only.
CONFERENCE PLANNING COMMITTEE (CPC)
SHFM's CPC invested their time and talent in shaping a conference experience that is both curated and dynamic. We recognize and celebrate their commitment and adaptability over the course of the past year — and their resounding "Yes, And…"
SHFM President
Jenna Calhoun, Balfour Beatty Communities
President-Elect
Rob Yayac, Google
Chair
Jessica Zucker, Compass Group
Co-Chair
Amelia Ekus, Guckenheimer
Advisors
Russ Benson, Day One Hospitality
Sharon Eliatamby, World Bank Group
Paul Fairhead, Infuse Hospitality
Rob Gebhardt, JLL
Culinary Advisors Group
Nick Cavaretta, Restaurant Associates
Robin Hernaez, Eurest
Randall Prudden, Good Eating Company
John Ryan, LifeWorks Restaurant Group
Planning Members
Kristi Boccella, Coca-Cola North America
Gina Brophy, Becton Dickinson
Jeanine Cosgrove-Albert, At Your Service Staffing
Brad Dorion, PepsiCo
Sandy Edwards, Restaurant Associates
Joe Esteves, Sodexo
Sam Euler, HMG+
David Gaughan, Sodexo
Kendall Hudson, Bank of America
Jennifer Kaufman, Aramark Workplace Hospitality
Ryan King, Compass Group
Bob Kloeckner, Vivreau
Natalia Lopresti, Jane Street
Michael Moore, Restaurantware
Natalie Nelson, Red Bull North America
Anthony (Sal) Salazar, Guckenheimer
Samantha Slocum, Zoomba Group
Brad Silverstein, Singer Equipment Co.
Mboone Umbima, Discovery Grounds
Jason Wange, Cal-Mil
Davin Wickstrom, Vivreau
Carolina Mendez Zelaya
Where Innovation Checked in First
Inspired by the Palmer House, the first U.S. hotel to harness the incandescent light bulb, we're channeling that same innovative spirit across every session: from the future and intelligence to career pathing for happiness and creating the best partnerships.
GET YOUR ATTENDANCE APPROVED
Communicate the Value and Showcase the ROI of Conference!
The SHFM NC Justification Toolkit makes it easy to build your case by highlighting the business value, educational impact, networking opportunities and return on investment of attending conference. Customize the materials to fit your role and organization, and confidently communicate why attending SHFM NC is a smart investment for both you and your company. If you require any other information or would like additional support, email your SHFM headquarters staff at SHFM@hqtrs.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY
SHFM captures the energy of conference all week. By registering, you acknowledge and agree that photos may be used in SHFM communications and/or other future SHFM promotional material — and we hope you'll share your own moments too!
CONTACT US
For more information about the conference, contact SHFM Headquarters:
General Questions (including Registration and Membership) – shfm@hqtrs.com | 502-574-9021
Media Inquiries – Tony Butler | (502) 574-9951
Sponsorship Opportunities – Michelle Romero | (502) 574-9036
BECOME AN SHFM MEMBER
Not a member yet? Join SHFM now and save up to $450 on your conference registration plus extended membership through 2027.
Join and register for the conference today, contact shfm@hqtrs.com or call 502-574-9931 for the promo code.
Promo code is valid through September 9, 2026.
GET SOCIAL WITH US
The conversation is already happening. Jump in — share your moments, connect with the community and make some noise before, during and after the conference. #SHFMNC