Written by:
Maya Dhande, SHFM Foundation Student Board Advisor and Student Leader at Michigan State University
Ella Cox, SHFM Student Foundation Fellow and Student Leader at Michigan State University
Amy Franks, Chair of the SHFM Foundation
What Is SHFM and Why It Matters for Hospitality Students
The Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management (SHFM) Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps prepare the next generation of professionals in the hospitality, tourism, and culinary industries. Through university and military partnerships, SHFM offers student leaders access to mentorships, educational events, and real-world experiences in the Workplace Hospitality and Amenities Foodservice Industry.
The #1 Reason to Attend an SHFM Conference: Networking
There are countless benefits to attending SHFM conferences—but networking is at the top of the list.
For students, the idea of networking with top-tier professionals can feel intimidating. But SHFM creates a welcoming, encouraging environment where students are supported and guided. Every SHFM member is there to help, not to gatekeep. Students often walk away from these events with newfound confidence in their ability to build meaningful professional relationships.
Practicing Professional Networking in a Safe, Supportive Space
SHFM conferences give students a unique chance to practice their networking skills in a real-world setting. By the end of the first day, most students feel empowered to:
- Start conversations with professionals
- Introduce themselves confidently
- Share their interests and career goals
- Engage with peers from other universities
This safe and inclusive space helps students step outside their comfort zone and build a foundation of professional confidence.
Connecting With Peers Builds Community and Career Momentum
In addition to networking with industry leaders, SHFM encourages students to connect with their peers from other chapters and schools. These conversations often lead to:
- Idea-sharing on student engagement
- Collaboration on future projects
- Friendships that continue beyond the event
Students leave with not only mentors, but also a community of future colleagues in the hospitality industry.
Exposure to Every Sector of the Hospitality Industry
One of the most eye-opening aspects of SHFM conferences is the diversity of expertise in attendance. Students have the opportunity to explore:
- Corporate dining (a field often overlooked in academia)
- Sustainability and facilities management
- Culinary innovation
- Hospitality consulting and operations
No matter your interest, there’s someone at SHFM ready to share insight and guidance.
Real Connections Lead to Real Opportunities
For many students, attending SHFM conferences opens doors to internships, fellowships, and jobs. Mentorships formed during conferences often lead to professional opportunities—as seen in Ella Cox’s inspiring journey below.
Student Spotlight: Ella Cox’s Career Journey Started with SHFM
“I began my SHFM journey by attending the National Conference in Baltimore in September 2024. It opened my eyes to a whole new side of the hospitality and foodservice industry—especially corporate dining. That experience alone inspired me to apply for the SHFM Student Fellowship Program.”
As a Student Foundation Fellow, Ella went on to attend the Young Professionals Summit and the Critical Issues Conference in New York City, where she connected with hundreds of industry leaders—from corporate dining teams and vendors to consultants and suppliers.
Following the Baltimore conference, she secured an internship with Flik Hospitality in Boston. While reviewing the attendee list for an upcoming SHFM event, Ella saw that Scott Davis, CEO of Flik, would be present.
“My mentor, Michael Moore, encouraged me to introduce myself. I took the leap and had a meaningful conversation with Scott, who advised me to follow up after the event.”
Ella did just that. Within hours of her email, Scott connected her directly with Rick Russo, East Coast Sector President—a relationship that shaped her entire internship experience.
“Rick went above and beyond to ensure I got exposure to top Flik accounts. That never would’ve happened without SHFM.”
SHFM Is More Than a Conference—It’s a Career Catalyst
SHFM doesn’t just give students access—it gives them confidence, mentorship, and a supportive launchpad to pursue meaningful careers in hospitality. From discovering new industry sectors to forming high-level connections, SHFM empowers students to lead with purpose and passion.
“If I had never attended that first conference, I wouldn’t have connected with Scott or Rick. SHFM helped me build the confidence and relationships I needed to grow as a student and future leader in the industry.”
Final Thoughts: Why Every Hospitality Student Should Attend SHFM Events
Whether you’re looking to expand your network, explore your career options, or just meet other driven students, SHFM conferences are the place to start. They offer a rare combination of professional insight, peer collaboration, and mentorship that simply can’t be replicated elsewhere.
If you’re a student passionate about hospitality, foodservice, or workplace amenities, don’t miss your opportunity to attend an SHFM event—and start building the career you envision.