Women in Hospitality Leadership Conference

Speakers & Panelists

Diana Bennett

Elizabeth Blau

  • Elizabeth Blau is a trailblazing restaurateur, entrepreneur, and hospitality industry leader, renowned for her innovative approach to restaurant development and operations. As the founder of Blau & Associates, a leading hospitality consulting firm, Blau has played a pivotal role in transforming the dining landscape, bringing world-class concepts and culinary experiences to life. Her expertise spans every aspect of the restaurant business, from conceptualization and design to management and marketing, positioning her as one of the most influential figures in the hospitality industry.

    Blau’s career began in New York City, where she worked with some of the most prominent figures in the restaurant world, including the legendary chef Wolfgang Puck. Her entrepreneurial journey took off when she moved to Las Vegas, where she became a key figure in the development of high-end restaurant concepts, working with major hotels and casinos to create award-winning dining experiences. As the co-founder of Honey Salt, a beloved restaurant concept with locations in Las Vegas, Blau’s work reflects her commitment to seasonal ingredients, community-building, and delivering exceptional dining experiences.

    Throughout her career, Blau has been a passionate advocate for women in hospitality, championing gender equity and empowering the next generation of female leaders in the industry. Her leadership and mentorship have inspired many to pursue careers in the restaurant business, and she continues to be a vocal supporter of initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion. In addition to her work as a restaurateur and consultant, Blau is actively involved in charitable endeavors, supporting causes related to women’s health, education, and community development.

    Blau’s work has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition from the James Beard Foundation and numerous culinary publications. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, she regularly contributes to industry discussions on the future of dining, hospitality innovation, and entrepreneurship. Her impact on the restaurant industry has left an indelible mark, making her a respected and admired figure in the world of food, business, and beyond.

    Elizabeth Blau continues to push boundaries, reinventing the hospitality experience and inspiring others to build their own successful businesses. Her legacy is one of vision, leadership, and dedication to creating exceptional dining experiences that elevate both the food and the communities they serve.

Lorena Garcia

  • Lorena Garcia is an acclaimed Venezuelan-born chef, restaurateur, television personality, and author, widely recognized for her vibrant and innovative approach to Latin cuisine. With a passion for honoring her heritage while infusing modern culinary techniques, Garcia has become one of the most influential Latina chefs in the industry. She is the founder of Chica, a successful restaurant concept with locations in Las Vegas and Miami, where her bold flavors and contemporary takes on traditional Latin dishes are celebrated.

    Garcia’s career spans multiple culinary arenas, including television, where she has made memorable appearances on shows like Top Chef Masters, America’s Next Great Restaurant, and The Talk. As a passionate advocate for healthy eating, Garcia uses her platform to promote nutrition education and accessibility to wholesome food, particularly for underserved communities. She has also authored several cookbooks and launched her own line of cookware, sharing her culinary expertise with a broader audience.

    Beyond her restaurants and television appearances, Garcia is committed to social causes, particularly those focused on childhood obesity, hunger, and empowering women in the culinary field. She actively works with various organizations to promote wellness and education in communities, making her a beloved figure not only for her culinary skills but also for her philanthropy.

    Garcia’s dynamic career continues to inspire and influence aspiring chefs and food lovers around the world, making her a trailblazer in the modern culinary world.

Nicole Gajadhar

  • Nicole Gajadhar is a talented chef and entrepreneur, known for her work with Golden Age Hospitality, where she serves as the Executive Chef and Co-Owner. Nicole has made a name for herself in the culinary world by seamlessly blending traditional Caribbean flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. Her work at Golden Age Hospitality has earned her recognition as a dynamic force in New York’s food scene, and she continues to push boundaries with her innovative approach to cuisine.

    Originally from Trinidad, Nicole’s passion for cooking was cultivated at an early age by the rich culinary traditions of her homeland. She moved to the United States to pursue a culinary education at the Culinary Institute of America, where she refined her skills and gained exposure to a variety of culinary styles and techniques. This experience paved the way for her career as she began to develop her unique culinary identity.

    As Executive Chef of Golden Age Hospitality, Nicole oversees a diverse portfolio of restaurants and food concepts, including Ase Restaurant, where she brings her Caribbean roots to life through inventive dishes that showcase vibrant, bold flavors and high-quality ingredients. Her menu embraces the spirit of the Caribbean while incorporating modern techniques, creating an elevated and exciting dining experience.

Lin Jerome

  • Lin Jerome, J.D., is a mom, entrepreneur and co-founder of Refined Restaurant Group, a well-respected hospitality company known for its popular restaurant brands, recognized both nationally and internationally. These include the beloved Café Lola, the indulgent Saint Honorè Doughnuts and Beignets, the vibrant 3 Little Chicks, the elegant Sorellina Cucina Italiana, and the bold Emilio’s Contemporary Mexican Kitchen.

    A graduate of the University of Nevada Las Vegas Boyd School of Law in 2012, Lin's entrepreneurial spirit flourished quickly after earning her law degree. In 2013, she founded Ladies Who Dine, a dynamic female influencer and philanthropic collective, which hosts exclusive quarterly events at Las Vegas’ most sought-after restaurants and nightlife venues—catering to the city’s thriving community of young professionals.

    In 2015, Lin co-founded The Refined Agency, a cutting-edge interactive marketing company specializing in social media, creative design, influencer marketing, and hospitality events. Her success with The Refined Agency’s innovative marketing strategies laid the foundation for the creation of Refined Restaurant Group in 2018, where Lin now plays a pivotal role in forging strategic alliances, driving commercial development, and leading the group’s expansion efforts.

    A true design aficionado, Lin’s eye for aesthetics has been instrumental in defining the interiors of Refined Restaurant Group’s concepts. She has been a driving force in both designing and securing the perfect locations for each of the group’s establishments, curating some of the most Instagrammable moments and stunning installations—many of which she has personally brought to life with her own hands.

    Lin’s accomplishments have earned her recognition in numerous prestigious publications, including Medium, Authority Magazine, Entrepreneur, Travel Noiré, and the empowering book "Hello Gorgeous! Empowering Wisdom from Bold Women to Inspire Greatness".

    Lin cherishes time spent with her husband, Stephen, who is both her business partner and culinary talent for Refined’s concepts. Together, they raise their beautiful daughter, Margaux, along with their beloved fur babies, Kingston and Saint. In her downtime, Lin enjoys Pilates, quality time with loved ones, and unwinding with a perfectly chilled glass of champagne.

Lena Ciardullo

  • Lena Ciardullo is the Executive Chef at Union Square Café, one of New York’s most iconic and beloved restaurants. Known for her innovative approach to modern American cuisine, Lena has played a significant role in maintaining and elevating the restaurant’s reputation for exceptional food and hospitality.

    As Executive Chef, Lena leads a talented culinary team, overseeing the creation of a menu that highlights the best local and seasonal ingredients. Her commitment to sustainability and community sourcing aligns perfectly with Union Square Café’s ethos of supporting local farms and purveyors, and she continues the restaurant’s tradition of crafting dishes that celebrate fresh, vibrant flavors.

    Lena’s journey to becoming Executive Chef at Union Square Café began after she graduated from the Culinary Institute of America. With years of experience working in various prestigious kitchens, Lena joined the team at Union Square Café, where she quickly made a name for herself with her ability to create both innovative and approachable dishes. Her leadership style is centered around mentoring and fostering creativity within her team while ensuring that every dish that leaves the kitchen is of the highest standard.

    Under Lena's guidance, Union Square Café continues to embody the restaurant's commitment to excellence. Her culinary expertise and dedication to quality ensure that each guest experience is exceptional, from the carefully curated menu to the welcoming ambiance of the restaurant. Lena remains a key figure in New York’s dynamic dining scene, and her contributions to Union Square Café solidify her place as an influential leader in the industry.

Esther Choi

  • Esther Choi is an innovative chef, restaurateur, and entrepreneur who has made a significant impact on the culinary world with her bold, contemporary approach to Korean cuisine. Known for her vibrant flavors and dynamic culinary techniques, Choi has gained recognition as one of the most influential voices in the culinary scene, blending her cultural heritage with modern culinary trends to create unforgettable dining experiences.

    A graduate of the prestigious Institute of Culinary Education in New York, Choi's early career took off quickly. After honing her skills at renowned restaurants, she opened Mokbar, a popular ramen and Korean BBQ-inspired concept in Brooklyn, which has become a cornerstone of the city's culinary scene. Her cooking reflects her deep connection to her Korean roots, while also embracing global influences that make her dishes unique and innovative. Mokbar’s success led to her expanding the brand with additional locations and continuing to influence the development of Korean food culture in the United States.

    Choi’s culinary talents have earned her numerous accolades and recognition, including a spot as one of Food & Wine's "Best New Chefs." She has also appeared on the Food Network's Chopped and Beat Bobby Flay, where her creative and fearless approach to food stood out. Additionally, Choi is passionate about breaking barriers in the traditionally male-dominated restaurant industry. She uses her platform to mentor and encourage women in the culinary field, aiming to inspire a new generation of chefs to embrace their creativity and pursue their culinary dreams.

    Beyond her role as a chef and restaurateur, Choi is also an advocate for elevating Korean cuisine and culture in the broader food world. She has been an active participant in numerous food festivals and events, where she promotes the richness of Korean flavors while collaborating with other chefs and industry leaders to push the boundaries of what is possible in the kitchen.

    Choi's influence extends beyond her cooking, as she is deeply involved in creating a more inclusive, equitable food industry. She advocates for diversity and representation and actively supports organizations focused on empowering women and minority chefs.

Hollis Silverman

  • Hollis Wells Silverman is the Founder and CEO of Eastern Point Collective, a Washington, D.C.-based restaurant group that includes acclaimed establishments such as The Duck & The Peach, La Collina, and The Wells. With a career spanning over two decades in the hospitality industry, Hollis has been instrumental in shaping the dining landscape of the nation's capital.

    Before establishing Eastern Point Collective, Hollis served as Chief Operating Officer at ThinkFoodGroup, where she played a pivotal role in expanding José Andrés's restaurant empire. Her leadership and vision have earned her recognition as a James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurateur in 2024.

    A graduate of Cornell University, Hollis is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. She advocates for equitable pay and growth opportunities, particularly for women and caregivers in the industry. Under her guidance, Eastern Point Collective has implemented policies such as paid maternity and paternity leave, reflecting her dedication to creating a better life for team members, community members, and guests.

Mariena Boarini

Punam Mathur

  • Currently, Punam serves as Executive Director of the Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation, a private foundation that exists to advance fundamental change, primarily related to equity, civil rights and conservation. She also operates her own business as a speaker, trainer and writer.

    From 2009-2012, she was an officer of NV Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NVE), a vertically-integrated statewide electric utility with 2,700 employees, serving as vice president of people resources and as vice president of employee and community engagement.

    She joined NV Energy following 13 years in the gaming industry, most recently serving as an officer and senior vice president, corporate diversity and community affairs, for MGM MIRAGE, now MGM Resorts Int’l (NYSE: MGM).

    During her tenure, MGM MIRAGE received numerous awards in her areas of responsibility, including being ranked among the "Top 50 Companies for Diversity" by DiversityInc magazine, one of the "Top Corporations in the U.S." for multicultural businesses by DiversityBusiness.com and as one of the “Most Admired Companies in America” by Fortune magazine. Additionally, under her leadership the Company’s philanthropy program, including its centerpiece employee-directed foundation, set new standards for strategic philanthropy and employee engagement within the gaming industry.

    Prior to joining the gaming industry in 1996, she had been with the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce for six years, holding a variety of management positions, the last of which was Senior Vice President of Government Affairs.

Angie Mar

  • Angie Mar is an acclaimed chef and restaurateur, known for her innovative approach to modern cuisine with a specialization in meats. As the owner and Executive Chef of Beatrice Inn, a celebrated New York City restaurant, she has gained recognition for her exceptional culinary talent, especially in her mastery of dry-aged meats and bold, flavorful dishes that push the boundaries of traditional cooking.

    Born and raised in Seattle, Angie’s passion for food began at an early age, leading her to study at the Culinary Institute of America. She worked in prestigious kitchens across New York, including The Spotted Pig, where she honed her skills and refined her culinary style. In 2016, Angie took the helm of the historic Beatrice Inn, transforming it into a must-visit dining destination known for its exceptional approach to meat and innovative menu.

    At Beatrice Inn, Angie specializes in dry-aging meats, with a focus on high-quality cuts of beef, lamb, and pork, creating dishes that showcase the full depth and richness of these proteins. Her expertise in butchery and dedication to using the finest ingredients has solidified her as one of the top chefs working with meat in the country.

    Angie is also a strong advocate for women in the culinary industry, mentoring young women and working to create a more inclusive environment within the kitchen. She is committed to sustainable sourcing, working with local and ethical producers to ensure that the ingredients at Beatrice Inn are of the highest quality.

Opal Poullard

  • Chef Opal Poullard, a two-time Food Network ‘Chopped’ Champion is a Certified Executive Chef and Certified Culinary Educator through the American Culinary Federation. Chef Opal also carries a Professional Chef 1 certification through the Culinary Institute of America and Level 2 Award in Wines through the Wine and Spirit Education Trust in addition to her Bachelor of Arts degree in Hospitality Management.

    Her broad knowledge of Culinary comes from her passion to learn from various cultures when traveling around the world including Italy, Spain, England & France. While serving overseas for 7 years in Asia living in both Okinawa, Japan and South Korea, she spent her free time learning more about the food and culture in those locations.

    After many years abroad and multiple deployments, she served as an Enlisted Aide to various high profile Generals leading to her selection as an Advanced Culinary Instructor at Fort Gregg-Adams. While there she trained over 300 Military Chefs that work for General Officers, The Pentagon and White House.

    Her prestigious accolades led to her selection by the First Lady of the United States of America, Dr. Jill Biden to be a Guest Chef at the White House in 2023.

    As of most recent, Chef Opal has been selected as one of the top 12 Chefs in America set to compete at the Inaugural U.S. Culinary Open in February 2025.

    Chef Opal currently serves as the Vice President of the American Culinary Federation Old Dominion Chapter, as well as an Evaluator, certifying Chefs across America.

    Post retirement after 20 years in the US Air Force, Chef Opal owns a culinary consulting business, Chef Opal LLC.

Arlene Wszalek

  • Arlene Wszalek is Executive Vice President of Strategy & Innovation at Allied Global Marketing, where she oversees client-focused innovation and new business initiatives. She drives large-scale revenue growth and ensures the seamless integration of emerging technologies and strategic solutions into client campaigns. Arlene also leads the agency’s partnerships with platforms like YouTube, Meta, and TikTok, collaborating to develop new opportunities and innovative solutions that enhance client impact.. With extensive experience in travel, tourism, and food & beverage marketing— in Las Vegas and globally—she has a proven track record of boosting visitation, increasing conversions, and driving growth for brands in these industries.

Bonnie Wan

  • Bonnie is creator and author of The Life Brief, a simple yet profound action-driving practice that helps people navigate life’s big decisions with clarity, creativity and courage. The Life Brief applies the art and science of brand strategy to how we live our lives.

    As a 30-year career Brand Strategist turned Life & Leadership Strategist, Bonnie not only helps some of the world’s most iconic companies innovate from a place of purpose, but also guides everyday people live with greater intention and imagination. She has been named Chief Strategy Officer of the Year and one of 100 Women to KNOW in America.

Mary Sue Milliken

  • Mary Sue Milliken is a James Beard and Julia Child Award-winning chef best known for her modern Mexican Border Grill restaurants, trucks and catering in Los Angeles and Las Vegas; BBQ Mexicana and Pacha Mamas, fast casual eateries in Las Vegas; and Socalo, an all-day California canteen and Mexican pub in Santa Monica all created with her business partner Susan Feniger. Mary Sue has co-authored five cookbooks, co-starred in Food Network’s Too Hot Tamales and successfully competed on Bravo's Top Chef Masters.  Milliken is passionate about food policy and works with various nonprofits around the world to bring her expertise to help shape sustainable food systems. Mary Sue also serves on the Board of Trustees for the James Beard Foundation; is a co-founder of Regarding Her Food, a non-profit to provide women owned restaurants in LA county business grants, mentorship and resources in response to Covid's crippling effect on the industry; and is a member of the U. S. State Department’s American Chef Corps.

Monica Moradkhan

  • Monica Moradkhan joined Wynn Resorts, Limited in November 2017 as Vice President of Community Relations. In this role, she is responsible for the company’s long-term community engagement strategy and objectives. Prior to her role at Wynn, Monica was Director of Development and External Relations for UNLV’s Division of Student APairs, and previously served as Executive Director of a state legislative caucus shepherding legislation on public safety, housing, economic development education, throughout three Nevada

    Legislative sessions.

     

    During her undergraduate studies, Monica participated in a tourism conference in Finland that fueled her passion for the tourism and hospitality industry. Monica holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Hotel Administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Over the past two decades Monica has built a “second career” of volunteerism and service for the Greater Las Vegas community. She currently co-chairs the Nevada Corporate Giving Council and The Nevada Resort Association CSR Coalition. Additionally, Monica served on the Board of Directors for Opportunity 180 and Leadership Foundation of Greater Las Vegas. Monica is an active member of St. Joseph Husband of Mary Roman Catholic Church.

     

    From 2009-2012, she was an officer of NV Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NVE), a vertically-integrated statewide electric utility with 2,700 employees, serving as vice president of people resources and as vice president of employee and community engagement. She joined NV Energy following 13 years in the gaming industry, most recently serving as an officer and senior vice president, corporate diversity and community affairs, for MGM MIRAGE, now MGM Resorts Int’l (NYSE: MGM).

     

    During her tenure, MGM MIRAGE received numerous awards in her areas of responsibility, including being ranked among the "Top 50 Companies for Diversity" by DiversityInc magazine, one of the "Top Corporations in the U.S." for multicultural businesses by DiversityBusiness.com and as one of the “Most Admired Companies in America” by Fortune magazine. Additionally, under her leadership the Company’s philanthropy program, including its centerpiece employee-directed foundation, set new standards for strategic philanthropy and employee engagement within the gaming industry.

     

    Prior to joining the gaming industry in 1996, she had been with the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce for six years, holding a variety of management positions, the last of which was Senior Vice President of Government Affairs.

Cat Cora

  • Cat Cora is a celebrated world renowned chef, author, restaurateur, television host, philanthropist, and proud mother of six. The Jackson, Mississippi native, who graduated the Culinary Institute of America and went on to cook at two 3-star Michelin restaurants in France, was crowned the first female Iron Chef, and was also the first female inducted into the Culinary Hall of Fame. She pioneered the Food Network and shattered glass ceilings in the culinary industry. 

    Cat has opened more than 18 restaurants across the United States and globally, highlighting her platform on health, wellness and sustainability.  She has her degree in nutrition and physiology and championed the Mediterranean food space in the United States. Outside of the kitchen, Cat is the President/Founder of Chefs for Humanity, a non-profit dedicated to reducing hunger worldwide, as well as Ambassador of Little Kitchen Academy, a Montessori-style culinary school for ages 3-teen. Cat most recently won Fox Network’s competition show “The Real Dirty Dancing” and is a judge on Food Network’s “Tournament of Champions”. Cat received the Lifetime Achievement Award and the Volunteer Service Award from President Barack Obama.

Susan Feniger

  • Iconic culinarian, author, and entrepreneur Susan Feniger may be best known for her Modern Mexican concept, Border Grill restaurants, trucks, and catering. The James Beard Award-winning chef also co-owns SOCALO, a California canteen and Mexican pub in Santa Monica; fast casual eateries BBQ Mexicana and Pacha Mamas in Las Vegas; and Alice B., a new restaurant at Living Out in Palm Springs, with her business partner Mary Sue Milliken.

    In 2018, Feniger and Milliken were named the recipients of the fourth annual Julia Child Award from The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, marking the first women to be honored. The distinction complements additional accolades, including the Elizabeth Burns Lifetime Achievement Award from the California Restaurant Association and the Gold Award from the Los Angeles Times for culinary excellence and innovation in Southern California.

    Susan has co-authored six cookbooks, starred on The Food Network’s popular “Too Hot Tamales” and competed on Bravo’s “Top Chef Masters.” She is a founding member of the Scleroderma Research Foundation Board of Directors, co-chairs the board of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, sits on the L.A. Tourism & Convention Board, and works closely with the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Blue Ribbon Task Force to promote sustainable seafood.

Alex Dixon

  • Alex Dixon, CEO of Resorts World Las Vegas, is a gaming and hospitality leader with 20+ years of experience at MGM Resorts, Caesars, and Goldman Sachs. He led Q Casino’s turnaround, scaled MGM Springfield to $960M, and oversaw Circus Circus' $825M sale. A Howard University alum, he co-founded African Americans in Gaming and serves on industry boards, including the American Gaming Association.

Joanna James

  • Joanna James (Director/Producer/Editor) is a multi-award winning filmmaker and founder and CEO of AMZ Productions, which has produced Vanity Fair's Best Documentary by a first time filmmaker A Fine Line, a short series and multiple corporate productions. She is a women’s rights activist who founded the not-for-profit 501c3 MAPP to empower more women into leadership through mentorship and advocacy, hosting a national conference with women from nearly every state gathered to share their voices. Joanna has built partnerships with companies like PepsiCo, Marriott and BMW and has spoken for Fortune 500 companies on women leadership and equity like Google, Chevron and Compass, to universities including Harvard and the Culinary Institute of America. Having a passion for storytelling as a director, producer and writer her work has been featured on PBS, The O Magazine, NPR, Forbes, The Boston Globe, Food and Wine, The James Beard Foundation and many other media. Joanna hosted a special screening engagement on Capitol Hill with the National Partnership for Women and Families with congresswomen and Fortune 500 female executives in attendance. Prior to filmmaking, Joanna was a newspaper reporter interning at The Boston Globe, was awarded Best Environmental Reporting from the New England Press Association and covered the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens. Joanna has three little girls who inspire all her work and a life partner who brings it all together.

The Quann Sisters

  • With a social media following of over 1 million followers, Cipriana Quann and TK Quann—also known as the Quann Sisters—are the first two Black American sisters to grace the cover of Harper’s Bazaar Netherlands on the power of sisterhood. The Quann Sisters have worked with almost every couture brand in fashion—from being featured in campaigns for Valentino, Fendi, Bulgari, and Tiffany & Co. to working with Dior, Chanel, Armani, Prada, Louboutin, Cartier, Roberto Cavalli, and Ferragamo. They are also featured in editorial spreads for American Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Interview, Vanity Fair, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Town & Country, V Magazine, and Conde Naste Traveller to name a few.

    Cipriana was selected as one of “six brilliant women” in New York by Vogue Magazine for their 'My Life in Vogue' Documentary. Dubbed the "voice of your generation” by HBO and an “Influential Millennial" by Gap. Cipriana was also personally invited to the White House—specifically regarding her contributions for creating an inclusive change within the fashion/beauty industry for women of color with her website, Urban Bush Babes.

    TK has been interviewed by The New York Times and is Cultured Magazine’s writers grant winner. She’s also a music artist under the moniker TK Wonder and has opened for Sting, Nas, Queens of the Stone Age, Justice, The Prodigy, Erykah Badu, and Lauryn Hill—in front of audiences ranging from 10,000 to 150,000 people abroad. She’s the 1st rapper that received permission from Rodgers and Hammerstein organization to write an original rap for the official remix of the seminal The Sound of Music soundtrack.

    Their work together has also spanned across multiple industries from fashion, film, music, food and beverage, national tv, and writing—whether as HBO interviewers for red carpet premieres; panelists for The New York Times and Instagram; working with Greygoose, Veuve Clicquot, and Johnnie Walker Blue; or guest stylists on the Steve Harvey Show. They were referred to as one of the “greatest hopes” in fashion by the legendary Bill Cunningham; named two of the '50 Most Interesting People on the Internet’ by Cosmopolitan; animated by Disney as Princess Elsa and Princess Anna from the film Frozen ll; and considered two of the “50 Most Interesting People on the Internet”—by Cosmopolitan.

    These sisters are redefining the power of sisterhood through their platforms with an emphasis on the importance of such a bond—and the transformative power of women supporting women.

Lisa Cain

  • Dr. Lisa Cain is an Associate Professor in the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida International University, where she teaches both undergraduate and graduate level Hospitality Management courses. Dr. Cain currently teaches women in hospitality leadership at the undergraduate level, marketing management at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, and globalization and competitive methods in the hospitality industry at the graduate level at Florida International University. She serves as the Assistant Editor for the International Journal of Consumer Studies and Editor in Chief for the International Hospitality Review, as Secretary for the Southeast, Central and South American section of the International Council on Hotel Restaurants and Institutional Education, and as an editorial advisory board member for the International Journal of Hospitality Management, the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, and the Journal for Hospitality Marketing and Management. She also serves as a reviewer for multiple other hospitality journals. She is also the co-founder of HospitalityInternships.com.


Kristina Unker

  • Kristina believes we are responsible for designing the world we want to see. She founded MA’AM on this premise, uniting fearless creativity with an inclusive culture based upon real relationships and unconditional respect. She combines this entrepreneurial spirit with over a decade of experience leading creative teams to drive meaningful work. From Starwood Hotels and Resorts to Diageo to Pepperidge Farm, Kristina has built and defined global brands across industries. 

    Kristina’s dedication to actively building a better future also underpins her membership in the Female Founders Collective, Dreamers and Doers, and her ongoing mentorship of young women— a pillar of her career that includes independent mentorship and volunteering for AIGA NY and UCONN Werth Institute. Kristina is a member of the CIA Society of Fellows and serves on the Board of Directors for Amber Waves, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community farm providing rich educational opportunities in agriculture for aspiring growers, thoughtful cooks, and eaters of all ages.

Kristin Whittemore

Todd Lenahan

Antonia Lofaso

  • Chef Antonia Lofaso is the Executive Chef and Owner of three acclaimed Los Angeles restaurants - Black Market Liquor Bar (Studio City, California), Scopa Italian Roots (Venice, California), and DAMA (Downtown Los Angeles, California). Though diverse in cuisine and style, each of her restaurants combines deep-rooted, personal culinary traditions with the influence of her globetrotting adventures and formal French training.

    Antonia is the current Co-Host of Food Network’s Worst Cooks in America: Celebrity Edition: Heroes vs Villians and is widely recognized from Tournament of Champions (Seasons 1-5) and was a season five finalist, Host of Beachside Brawl, as well as recurring roles on Guys Grocery Games, and Supermarket Stakeout, Beat Bobby Flay, Chopped, as well as Bravo’s Top Chef and CNBC’s Restaurant Startup.

    In addition to her thriving restaurant businesses and television career, Antonia is also an entrepreneur who has launched two highly specialized and successful business endeavors: Chefletics, an athletic-inspired line that has redefined the traditional fit and function of kitchen apparel, and Antonia Lofaso Catering which has executed high-end dining events for up to 2,000 people. 


Ivette Fernandez

  • Ivette Fernandez has over 25 years of experience in the public, private and non-profit sectors.  She currently serves as the Vice President of Government Relations for TKO- a premium sports and entertainment company majority owned by Endeavor, that comprises UFC- the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization, and WWE- a global leader in sports entertainment.

    Prior to joining TKO, Ivette worked for Endeavor- a global entertainment and sports company comprised of leading businesses, including UFC, PBR, IMG, WME, Frieze, and New York Fashion Week: The Shows.  Prior to Endeavor, Ivette held various roles for Stand Together, The LIBRE Institute, News Corp and Pfizer Inc.  Before joining the private and non-profit sectors, she worked for President George W. Bush at The White House, as a political appointee at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and in the U.S. Senate for two of Alaska's senators.

    Ivette has been recognized for her contributions to the community by numerous entities, including the University of Alaska Fairbanks; Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska; LATINO Magazine; and The Latino Coalition.  In 2023, she was honored by the Clark County Commission during Hispanic Heritage Month for her company leadership position and service to the Las Vegas community.  Additionally, she was honored with the United Way of NYC’s 2012 Women’s Leadership Council “Woman of Distinction Award,” and selected one of PODER Magazine’s 2013 “20 under 40: Latinos Going Places.”  In summer 2008, Ivette was the feature of LATINA Style Magazine’s article “Inspirational Latina, Ivette Fernandez,” and was 1 of 15 nationwide recipients in 2006 recognized as a Hispanic American leader by the Government of Spain’s “Young Hispanic Leaders Program,” where she was honored by HRH Crown Prince Felipe of Spain.

    Ivette is a current Board Member and former Chair of the Mayor’s Fund for Las Vegas LIFE Board of Directors; and a Member of the Easy Day Foundation Event Committee, Vegas Chamber Executive Women’s Council, Women in Sports & Events (WISE) Las Vegas Chapter, Hispanic Scholarship Fund Las Vegas Advisory Council, and Junior League of Las Vegas.  She was selected to be a Member of the 2024 Las Vegas Super Bowl Host Committee for Community Affairs; and is the former Commissioner on the Nevada Equal Rights Commission and Board Member and Vice Chair of the Friends of the National Museum of the American Latino.

    She participated in a cultural study abroad to Argentina in college and was selected to be a Rotary Foreign Exchange Student to Sweden in high school.  Ivette has traveled to over 30 countries and 30 states in the U.S. and speaks three languages.

    Ivette was born and raised in Fairbanks, Alaska, and in 2000, won the title of Miss Alaska USA and Miss Congeniality and competed in the 2001 Miss USA Pageant.  In 1999, she was selected to be Alaska’s Cherry Blossom Princess in the world-renowned Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC, and was crowned Senorita Latina of Fairbanks in 1990.

    Ivette received her Bachelor’s degree from The George Washington University and her Master’s degree from Georgetown University.

Tracy Morris

  • Tracy Morris joined Daniel Boulud’s restaurant group, The Dinex Group, in 2021. In her role as Corporate Director, she oversees the marketing department of the group, as well as working on strategy, business development, financial analysis and special projects for the Dinex CEO and in various areas of corporate management.  Tracy began her career in finance, working in investment banking in Restructurings and Reorganizations at The Blackstone Group, and has since held management and operations positions in various small businesses in the luxury goods sector in New York and Paris. She has extensive experience in operational planning, production, logistics, finance and analysis, sales, and marketing.  Tracy has a Certificate in Human Resources from the School of Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University. She is a graduate of Harvard University.

Meredith Lipnick

  • Meredith Lipnick is an activist and strategist committed to harnessing the power of business to drive meaningful social change. With a career spanning leadership roles at PVH (Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein), Stitch Fix, and VF Corp (The North Face, Vans, and Timberland), she has focused on integrating social and environmental impact across global value chains. Now, as Director of Private Sector Strategy at Moms First, Meredith partners with businesses to implement measurable, business-beneficial programs that support working parents and drive structural change in the workforce. Passionate about building systems that enhance the mental, financial, and social well-being of working parents, Meredith champions the role of both business and policy in fostering sustainable success and economic resilience.

    Beyond her professional work, Meredith engages her local Boston community, supporting nonprofits that advance women’s health and dignity, early childhood education for socioeconomically diverse families, and literacy and storytelling opportunities for underprivileged youth. Meredith holds degrees from Clemson University and The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. She is the mother of two toddlers and a very large puppy.

Molly Moon Neitzel

  • Molly Moon Neitzel is the founder and CEO of Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream, with ten ice cream shops, 200 employees, and pints available in nearly 200 grocery stores in Western Washington. Molly Moon’s aims to create the most delicious ice creams, life changing jobs, and welcoming spaces in every neighborhood in the Seattle region. Molly graduated from the University of Montana, where she served as Student Body President, with a B.S. in Journalism. She went on to found Music for America, an organization that partnered with bands and music venues to register and turn out young people to vote. In 2008, Molly started her business, building it to be a leader in living wages and benefits for employees, local and sustainable food business practices, pay transparency and philanthropic giving.  


    A granddaughter of small business owners and Idaho Democrats, Molly has worked to ensure that Molly Moon’s embodies her original family values. She has advocated for fair business practices and worker rights on the local, state, and national levels, helping to win minimum-wage increases, paid safe and sick time, secure scheduling, and paid family and medical leave for workers in her region. She is a leader on living wages and benefits, and advocacy for working parents, and leads a 100% pay-transparent company. Molly Moon’s has been featured in Food & Wine and Bon Appetit,for making and scooping some of the nation’s most delectable ice cream, all with the objective of making the world better one scoop at a time.

Alaina Nieves

  • Alaina Nieves has been a pivotal figure in elevating the food and beverage scene at Wynn Las Vegas since 2005. As Senior Vice-President of Food and Beverage, she leads a team of over 3,400 talented hospitality professionals, overseeing operations for 9 fine dining restaurants, 9 casual eateries, 8 bars and lounges, as well as the in-room dining experience for our 4,750-room resort. Since her appointment in 2021, Alaina has collaborated with Wynn Design and Development on several milestone projects, including the launch of the critically acclaimed Delilah’s Supper Club and the debut of the innovative Mexican coastal concept, Casa Playa. She has led the reimagining of Wynn’s cocktail program, first with the hiring of world-class resort mixologist Mariena Mercer Boarini and later opening venues such as, Over Lounge, Bar Parasol, and Aft Cocktail Deck, as well as the reopening of Wynn’s popular casual café as the all-new, European-inspired Caffé al Teatro. Looking ahead, Alaina is also leading the development of the re-imagined  B Bar opening in March 2025, PISCES Bar and Seafare, set to open in spring 2025, and Zero Bond at Wynn Las Vegas, scheduled for late 2025.


    Prior to her current role, Alaina served as Vice President of Fine Dining and Beverage and Executive Director of Cocktail Services and Beverage. In these positions, she managed all aspects of the resort’s fine dining restaurants and beverage programs. In addition to developing cocktail and spirits lists for six lounges and four nightclubs, Alaina collaborated with the chefs throughout Wynn’s portfolio of restaurants to create, refine, and perfect cocktail and spirits offerings.


    Alaina is passionate about her team’s involvement in Wynn’s community outreach program and has served as both an active board member and past Chairwoman of the Nevada Restaurant Association. She is also a recipient of Hotels magazine’s Top 10 Award for Excellence in Food and Beverage. 


Erika Cospy Carr

  • Erika Cospy Carr is a dynamic leader and cultural intelligence champion with nearly 20 years of experience across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Known for her authentic leadership style and ability to build impactful relationships, Erika consistently delivers exceptional outcomes for clients, customers, and communities.

    As the leader of the Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance (MFHA), Erika leverages her strategic acumen and cultural intelligence experience to ensure that its initiatives effectively address industry challenges and create tangible impact. Erika’s leadership is pivotal in advancing MFHA’s goals and reinforcing its commitment to equipping the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality industry maximize its human potential.

    Erika has a keen eye for positive social impact and growth initiatives that ensure all voices are heard. As founder and CEO of Cospy Concepts, LLC, a nonprofit focused on creating sustainable change for Black and Brown communities, Erika led critical initiatives to help employers and talent developers overcome barriers to building and sustaining healthy workplace partnerships. Her work has re-engineered organizational systems, improved employee outcomes, and strengthened community ties.

    A catalyst for systems change, Erika has been instrumental in transforming organizations. Her multi-faceted approach has helped hotel industry leaders across the U.S. create the tools and insights needed to recognize and address cultural intelligence challenges effectively. Her strategic initiatives have not only improved workplace culture but also elevated organizational performance. In her role at Year Up, a nonprofit committed to ensuring equitable access to economic opportunities for young adults, Erika led efforts that helped the organization’s leadership embrace and implement inclusive best practices at all levels.

    Her strategic vision and leadership were key to driving growth and expanding NABA Inc.’s (formerly National Association of Black Accountants) influence in the industry. Additionally, she held the position of National Affiliate and Strategy Director at the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, where she led national initiatives to strengthen the organization's outreach and impact.

    Early in her career, Erika excelled as a Financial Services Account Executive, leading multi- million-dollar portfolios and devising high-impact strategies to solve complex client challenges.

    Her business acumen and strategic mindset have been a consistent asset throughout her career. Erika holds a BA in Business Administration from Bennett College and an MBA from the University of Phoenix, complemented by various certifications in Design Leadership, Project Management, and Executive Business Communication. A proud HBCU graduate and daughter of a two-tour Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran, Erika is also a wife and bonus mom. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, traveling, learning, skating, and music.

Karla Hoyos

  • Chef Karla’s love for life, family, and food began at her grandmother’s farm in Veracruz, where she learned that the humblest ingredients could make the most delicious food: making cheese from fresh milk, nixtamalizing corn after harvesting it, and making salsas/stews that had been passed down through generations. Her new restaurant, Tacotomia, is a celebration of the vibrant flavors of her Mexican roots.

    After completing culinary school and studying business administration in Mexico, she traveled and worked around the world, in Michelin starred restaurants in Spain, traditional trattorias in Italy, and trained to be a pastry chef in the south of France.

    Following years of global culinary immersion, Karla made her US debut in Indianapolis developing programs, concepts, and menus for Bon Appetit Management Company part of Compass Group before making Miami home when she was named Executive Chef of “The Bazaar by José Andrés.” Not only was she José Andres’s first female executive chef but also has been recognized as Best Chef in Miami in 2020 and 2022.

    In addition to her extensive and worldly professional experience, her passion for good food and helping communities has driven her to lead several relief kitchens for World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit organization that provides meals in times of crisis, in Puerto Rico, Haiti, Spain, Bangladesh, and Poland, to name a few.

    If not cooking for her guests or friends, Karla enjoys tennis, playing the piano, and always exploring new sources of inspiration. Find Karla on Instagram @ChefKarlaHoyos as she eagerly shares places, words, ingredients–or anything that brings her joy and inspiration.

Megan Sullivan

  • Originally from Sydney, Australia, Megan grew up in and around her family’s restaurants, developing a deep appreciation for the power of hospitality from an early age. With her sights set on a career in the industry,

    Megan spent her formative teenage years at ARIA, Sydney’s beloved harborside venue, where she worked as a server and events manager. Megan then joined the award-winning front-of-house team at Merivale, one of the country’s leading hospitality groups with a portfolio of over 90 venues. Megan began her eight-year tenure with the group at Merivale’s fine-dining restaurant est., where she grew from a food runner to the general manager, completing her sommelier certification in the process. In 2017, Megan was appointed director of operations for Merivale’s Hotel Centennial, MsGs and The Fish Shop, where she managed over 200 employees across the three venues. Megan was recognized as Merivale’s 2017 General Manager of the Year, in addition to assisting in the creation of Merivale’s leadership development program.

    In 2019, Megan relocated to New York City, joining the two Michelin-starred team at The Modern as assistant general manager. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she assumed the role of general manager at Jean-George’s The Inn at Pound Ridge, overseeing the restaurant’s reopening.

    In 2021, Megan went on to lead the passionate front-of-house team in the opening of Ci Siamo, translating her fine-dining training to a more approachable setting. In 2022, Megan was named Director of Operations, overseeing the performance of multiple full service restaurants at Union Square Hospitality Group including CiSiamo, Union Square Cafe, and Gramercy Tavern. In her role, she strategizes with each restaurant team to optimize operational efficiency, training and development programs, finances, and more. In 2022 she was named as 20 in their 20s in Crain’s New York Business. Within USHG she has developed the Leadership Cohort Program for upcoming leaders within the group. She collaborates with all departments, marketing, people, tech, analytics, facilities and finance to be a partner in operations to grow our systems, procedures and culture.

Michelle DiTondo

  • Michelle DiTondo is a Principal at Avion Consulting, a management consulting firm specializing in leadership, team effectiveness, and organizational development. With over 30 years of experience in human resources leadership and organizational transformation, Michelle has advised clients across private equity, investment banking, real estate development, automotive, hospitality and gaming industries.

    Before joining Avion, Michelle spent nearly a decade as the Chief Human Resources Officer for MGM Resorts International, where she led culture transformation, employee engagement, and operating model initiatives. Her leadership was pivotal in shaping the organization’s strategic vision and cultivating a culture centered around employee and guest engagement.

    Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arizona State University and a Master of Business Administration from Brigham Young University. She has actively been involved in her community, having served on the boards of the Culinary Training Academy, the Asian American Pacific Islander Scholarship Fund, and the Red Cross of Southern Nevada. Currently, she serves on the Advisory Board for FirstUp.

    Michelle resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, with her husband and two children.

Dominique Crenn

  • Dominique Crenn is the chef and owner of the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Atelier Crenn in San Francisco, where artistry is at the forefront, cuisine is a craft, and the community is an inspiration. “Atelier” can be defined as a workshop or studio, a concept that drives Chef Crenn’s modern vision for fine French cuisine. Her highly distinctive French heritage and imaginative gastronomic lair behind the stove at Atelier Crenn is a clear reflection of her unique life story. 

    Driven by her passion to create a deeply personal project, Crenn opened Atelier Crenn, a place to express her heritage as well as an ode to “poetic culinaria,” in January 2011. Atelier Crenn achieved its first Michelin Star within a year, in October of 2011. In the following year, Crenn made history again when Atelier Crenn received its second Michelin Star, becoming the first female chef in the US to receive this honor. In November 2018, Crenn beat her own record and became the first female chef in the US to receive three Michelin Stars. In 2021, Crenn was the recipient of the World's 50 Best Icon Award.

Jan Jones Blackhurst

SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT

We are excited to spotlight two speaking sessions with our key partners, Moms First and the Multicultural Foodservice Hospitality Alliance, both of which will take place during the conference on Monday, March 31, 2025

Interactive Lunch Session with MOMS F1RST: Unlocking Creative Child Care Solutions for Employers & Employees

Featuring:

  • Molly Day, Chief Operating Officer of MOMS F1RST

  • Meredith Lipnick, Director of Private Sector Strategy, Moms First

  • Molly Moon Neitzel, CEO & Founder of Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream

  • Hollis Wells Silverman, Founder of Eastern Point Collective

This interactive lunch session is focused on actionable child care solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. Get to know the MOMS F1RST team and their work, followed by a spotlight conversation with a small business leader who has successfully implemented ground-breaking child care benefits for her employees. Attendees will have a chance to engage in a table discussion with fellow business leaders to explore challenges, share insights, and brainstorm practical solutions to support working parents while strengthening the workforce. Following the conference we will be launching a cohort of small and medium sized businesses looking to implement care solutions with the support of Moms First and MAPP. 

Break-Out Session: Leadership from the Inside Out

Featuring:

  • Erika Cospy Carr, Vice President, Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance (MFHA)

  • Opal Poullard, 2x Food Network Chopped champion, former Air Force member

    Explore how building self-awareness and emotional intelligence (EQ) can empower you to lead yourself, your teams, and your organization. Learn practical tools to enhance your leadership skills and foster stronger, more effective relationships in the workplace. Creating a safe environment where employees feel heard, valued.