MARCH 26-28, 2026 | THE WESTIN DC DOWNTOWN | WASHINGTON, DC
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E V E N T
S C H E D U L E

 

3:00-6:00 pm NEWH POWERtalk LIVE Registration  (table sponsors & delegates only)
Check in at NEWH Registration Desk
Potomac Ballroom Pre-Function
7:45-4:00 pm NEWH POWERtalk LIVE (table sponsors & delegates only)
Potomac Ballroom
4:00-5:00 pm Students Mix & Mingle
Dumbarton Oaks
3:30-8:00 pm Registration for Leadership Conference Attendees
Potomac Ballroom Pre-Function
6:00-8:00 pm Welcome Reception  (open to all registered conference attendees)
Potomac / Anacostia Ballrooms Pre-Function
6:30-10:00 pm President’s Dinner  (an invitation only event)
sponsored by ALIS DESIGN+/Hotel Investment Group by Northstar, Architex, Bloom Lighting Group, Coast to Coast, Fabricut Contract, Hospitality Design / Boutique Design, PierPoint, Porcelanosa, Smith Gee Studio, Sunbrella, TLS Furniture, & Trinity Lighting, Inc.
7:00-8:00 am Breakfast
Potomac Ballroom Pre-Function
sponsored by ASCH, Blue Leaf Hospitality, Evan Ross & Co, Fabric Innovations, Integra Fabrics, Mittman Hospitality & United Fabrics
8:00-8:10 am Welcome
Deidre Schwartz, NEWH, Inc. President and Matt DeShantz, Leadership Conference MC
Potomac Ballroom
8:15-9:15 am Keynote with Victoria Labalme
Victoria is a master at helping leaders uncover their hidden talents and communicate with clarity and impact. With a career spanning HBO, Broadway, award-winning films, and high-level corporate consulting, she brings a one-of-a-kind blend of performance and business insight that transforms teams and organizations.
Potomac Ballroom
sponsored by CF Kent
9:15-9:30 am Pinnacle Award Presentation
Celebrate with NEWH as we present the NEWH Pinnacle Award to an NEWH member who has contributed extraordinary time, effort and commitment to NEWH.
Potomac Ballroom
9:30-9:45 am Break
9:45-10:45 am HOSPITALITY ON THE MOVE: Trends, Truths, and Tomorrow
The hospitality industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace—shaped by shifting guest expectations, emerging technologies, workforce transformation, and new models of service and experience. In this forward-looking panel, industry leaders will explore the trends redefining hospitality today, share real-time insights, and unpack the truths behind what’s driving change.
Panelists: Rado Ivanov, Marriott International; Chet Patel, Baywood Hotels; Christine Patterson, InterMountain Hotels; Barry Sullivan, Hilton. Moderated by Nicole Fournier, MGM Resorts International.
Potomac Ballroom
sponsored by Threadwell
10:45-11:00 am Break
Breakouts…..  
11:00-12:00 pm FIRESIDE CHAT With VICTORIA LABALME
Enjoy an informal casual setting for conversations with Victoria.
Anacostia D
sponsored by CF Kent
MYTH BUSTING THE MODERN HOTEL PROJECT: What Owners, Designers, and Procurement Need to Know
In an era of volatility, evolving brand standards, and rising project complexity, this panel cuts through the noise to uncover the truths behind modern hotel development. Industry leaders from ownership, design, and procurement share real-world strategies, hard-earned lessons, and forward-looking insights on what really drives success. From building resilient supply chains to making procurement a competitive advantage and from lifecycle-driven design to transparent communication, this session debunks outdated assumptions and redefines how aligned teams can deliver projects that perform, not just impress. Expect frank conversation, bold perspectives, and takeaways you can use on your next project.
Panelists: Aaron Anderson, The 26 Co; Alan Benjamin, Benjamin West; Heather Ciszczon, CoralTree Hospitality; Meridith Zimmerman, RLJ Lodging Trust. Moderated by Trisha Poole, Design Poole, Inc.
Anacostia E
sponsored by Zenith Rugs
AUTHENTICITY IN THE AGE OF AI: How to Ace It
This session is a dynamic, people-first panel exploring how leaders in hospitality can embrace AI without compromising trust, creativity, or human connection. Grounded in fresh generational survey data and enhanced by live audience polling, the discussion will examine ethics, transparency, job security, sustainability, and the uniquely human skills that cannot be automated. Rather than a technical deep dive, the program is designed to be interactive, emotionally resonant, and directly relevant to leaders navigating an AI-enabled future.
Panelists: Keisha Byrd, Stay and Gather; Kavitha Iyer, Executive Brand Design Strategist; Michelle Madison, MICHE.studio. Moderated by Tara Witt, Tru Creative Agency.
Anacostia F
sponsored by ACG Architects
12:00-12:15 pm Break
12:15-1:30 pm Scholars & Awards Luncheon
Luncheon Keynote – Alex Knodel, Forrest Perkins
Join us for lunch and a presentation of the NEWH Leadership Scholarship awards as we celebrate the following deserving students: Julihanna Johnson, Monroe University; Liliana Soto, Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership at the University of Houston; Adrian Ye, Yorkville University (open to all conference attendees)
Potomac Ballroom
sponsored by Source
1:30-2:00 pm Break 
Breakouts…..
2:00-3:00 pm BrandED: Marriott International
The Future of Marriott’s Premium Brands: From Concept to Concrete
As guest expectations continue to evolve, Marriott’s premium brands – including Marriott, Sheraton, Westin, Renaissance, Le Méridien, and Delta Hotels by Marriott – have a powerful opportunity to differentiate through elevated design, streamlined operations, and smarter, scalable models. Premium Long Term Differentiation (LTD) represents a new chapter, one grounded in owner collaboration, guest insight, and practical solutions designed to deliver the experience-driven stays guests are looking for and strengthen performance! LTD offers a suite of optional pathways that hotels can tailor based on asset needs, brand, and market dynamics. This discussion will focus on Food & Beverage, where enhanced design and operational thinking can produce meaningful returns and offers some of the biggest opportunities.
Panelists: David Ashen, Saquez & Dash; David Carofano, Crown Creative; Jennifer O’Brien, Marriott International; Lauren Uthenwoldt, Washington Marriott at Metro Center. Moderated by Linda Laucirica, Marriott International.
Anacostia D
sponsored by BERMANFALK Hospitality Group
WELLNESS: From Amenity to Ethos: When Wellness Become the Operating System
As hospitality moves beyond surface-level spa menus and fitness rooms, this session explores what happens when wellness becomes an integrated operating system, shaping culture, design, guest experience, and long-term performance. With the global wellness economy projected to approach nearly $9 trillion by the end of the decade, this conversation unpacks how alignment across vision, strategy, and execution creates spaces that support real human outcomes, stronger teams, and more resilient business models. Expect practical insights and candid dialogue on what wellness leadership truly looks like in today’s hospitality landscape.
Panelists:Ethan Gabany, Weller Development Partners; Gail McCleese, sensitori; Anissa Mendil, Mendil + Meyer / LAM Concepts; LaRae Verros, Canyon Ranch. Moderated by Ben Meyer, Mendil + Meyer / LAM Concepts.
Anacostia E
sponsored by ARTCO Hospitality Furnishings
HOW TO BUILD DYNAMIC PARTNERSHIPS FOR INCREDIBLE PROJECTS 
The heart of hospitality is people; working with, caring for and welcoming our guests. As with our end users, we all must embrace the human condition and partnerships to produce stunning, yet cohesive design, that functions at the highest levels bringing unforgettable experiences. This discussion will explore how the best partnerships are formed, well before a guest walks through the door or even a wall gets built. How do our owners, PMs, designers, vendors and teammates partner up and make incredible spaces?
Panelists: Aaron Anderson, The 26 Co; Molly Forman, //3877; Victor Schmick, Davidson Hospitality Group. Moderated by David Shove-Brown, //3877
Anacostia F
3:00-3:15 pm Break
Breakouts…..
3:15-4:15 pm BrandED CRUISE: Holland America and an Iron Clad Partnership
Offering an insightful look at how thoughtful design and culinary vision come together to create a restaurant environment at sea. Led by marine‑design veteran My Nguyen and hospitality leader Marisa Christenson, this session explores how Holland America Line, known for its award‑winning culinary experiences, partnered with Chef Morimoto to design and deliver his first restaurant at sea. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the challenges behind creating a consistent culinary experience in motion, alongside the design and operational requirements shaped by dry‑dock planning and IMO regulations—ideal for the hospitality community curious about how land‑based principles translate into the specialized world of cruise‑ship design.
Panelists: Marisa Christenson and My Nguyen, Holland America and Seabourn. Moderated by Stephanie Deshaies, Architex
Anacostia D
UNAPOLOGETICALLY YOU: Distant Voices Who Stand Confidently in Their Own Identity
In a world crowded with opinions, expectations, and outside voices, Unapologetically You is a rallying call for those who choose originality over conformity. This conversation brings together independent thinkers who have built their careers by trusting their instincts, honoring their voices, and shaping brands that feel unmistakably their own, often through mistakes, learning, unlearning, and the courage to keep going. Together, we’ll explore why showing up as yourself isn’t just for optics, it’s a creative compass. It guides what you make, how you show up, and the opportunities that find you. When you own your story with clarity and confidence, you give others permission to do the same. Expect honest insights, practical takeaways, and bold inspiration. This is about embracing the messy, evolving parts of yourself, finding the courage to grow, and turning that journey into your greatest design asset. Because the mark that endures is born from work rooted in who you truly are.
Panelists: Allison Eden, Allison Eden Studios; Stacy Garcia, Stacy Garcia Design Studio; Greer F. May, Studio 11 Design; Libby Patrick, Sims Patrick Studio. Moderated by Kavitha Iyer, Executive Brand Design Strategist
Anacostia E
sponsored by Franz Viegener
CEU: Designing for Neuro-inclusive Workplaces
This CEU introduces key neurodivergent conditions and how they shape individuals’ experiences and interactions with their environments. It emphasizes the importance of intentional, sensory-aware design choices that support well-being, productivity, and inclusion. Learners will gain practical skills to assess sensory needs and apply neuro-inclusive design principles across various built spaces.
Presented by Jess Herring, Milliken Floors
Anacostia F
3:30-5:00 pm Hospitality Design / NEWH Owners Roundtable
Take the opportunity to connect one-on-one with some of the most influential leaders in hospitality in a rotating roundtable format. Additional ticket purchase required. See participants here
Potomac Ballroom
sponsored by Hospitality Design / Emerald
5:30-6:30 pm VIP Cocktail Reception – 1st hour open to Architectural firms, Interior Design firms, Procurement firms, Hotel Brands and Owners, Speakers and Panelists, and VIP Reception Sponsors
Dirty Habit, 555 Eighth Street NW, Washington, DC 20004  **approximate walk time from the hotel is 8-10 minutes
sponsored by Momentum & Universal Furniture Design, LLC
6:30-8:00 pm Open Cocktail Reception – open to all attendees
Dirty Habit, 555 Eighth Street NW, Washington, DC 20004  **approximate walk time from the hotel is 8-10 minutes
Y O U R   N I G H T   T O   E N J O Y   W A S H I N G T O N , D C
W I T H  I N D U S T R Y   F R I E N D S
8:00-9:00 am Breakfast
Potomac Ballroom Pre-Function
sponsored by ASCH, Blue Leaf Hospitality, Evan Ross & Co, Fabric Innovations, Integra Fabrics, Mittman Hospitality & United Fabrics 
9:00-9:05 am Welcome and Special Announcements
Potomac Ballroom
9:05-10:05 am Industry Keynote with Todd-Avery Lenahan
As President and Chief Creative Officer of Wynn Design & Development, Todd-Avery Lenahan leads the over ten-billion-dollar design and development portfolio for Wynn Resorts, the world’s only vertically integrated and exclusively Forbes Five Star hotel company.
Potomac Ballroom
sponsored by Daniel Fine Art Services
10:05-10:15 am NEWH Fellows Induction
Join us as we present our new members into the NEWH College of Fellows. Fellowship is bestowed on NEWH members who have made notable contributions to the Hospitality Industry, not only through their work, but through their demonstrated commitment to NEWH.
Inducting: Kim Faith, North Central Chapter; Johanna Malen, San Francisco Bay Area Chapter; Monica Meade, Washington DC Metropolitan Chapter; Kathryn Quinn, United Kingdom Chapter
Potomac Ballroom
10:15-10:30 am Break
Breakouts…..  
10:30-11:30 am BETTING ON THE FUTURE: The Sky is the Limit
Hospitality gaming isn’t just a Las Vegas story anymore…it has spread across North America and the globe! Industry-leading experts will provide forward looking insights on the rapidly evolving landscape of gaming-centric design, construction, and development. They’ll discuss top trends and reveal new ways to reimagine ever-evolving spaces within casino environments. What is the Hotel / Casino of the Future and how can operators captivate every generation, while designing truly unforgettable experiences.
Panelists: Kevin Ball, Resorts World Las Vegas; Nicole Fournier, MGM Resorts International; Lorine Hanson, Steelman Partners. Moderated by Carl Long, Purchasing Management International
Anacostia D
sponsored by Fleetwood Fine Furniture
MINDFUL BY DESIGN: Spaces that Work for Everyone
Explore sensory-enabled architecture (SEA), evidenced-based design strategies and lessons learned from behavioral sciences in this interactive panel. Together we’ll explore how design can craft culture and spaces help define relationships.
Presented by Leigh Fayfich and Stephen Parker, Stantech Architecture
Anacostia E
NAVIGATING SUCCESS FOR THE MENTOR / MENTEE RELATIONSHIP
Mentorship allows lives to be transformed. Are you curious how the Mentor / Mentee partnership is forged and developed? What are the steps for establishing and reaching reasonable career goals? Join us to hear a lively discussion from panel participants who have already experienced being part of the Martha’s Mentorship program. Abandon any pre-conceived stereotypes as we dispel several key notions. Determine if being a Mentor or Mentee is the ultimate synergistic experience to enhance personal learning and heighten your industry awareness through close interaction via a formal mentorship program.
Panelists: Abby Eckard, //3877; Ann Hsieh, Marriott International; Taylor Sallis, Perkins&Will; Joemy Vega, dv Studio. Moderated by Maureen Rothman, Rothman Associates, Inc.
Anacostia F
sponsored by Couristan, Inc.
11:30-12:00 pm Break
12:00-12:45 pm CONNECTIONS, CELEBRATIONS, & WHAT’S NEXT LUNCHEON
Join us as we celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the NEWH Green Voice Initiative, draw for the Lodging Conference 2026 attendee pass (a $2995 value – must be present to win) and announce the location of our next conference.
Potomac Ballroom
12:45 -1:00 pm Break
Breakouts…..
1:00-2:00 pm LEGACY IN LEADERSHIP: Crafting a Sustainable Future
In today’s rapidly changing environment, the need for sustainable leadership has never been more critical. This panel explores the vital role of inter-generational connection in fostering effective leadership practices that can withstand the test of time—and help with effective succession planning. Listen in as firm leaders discuss the power of continuity in leadership, emphasizing how different generations can collaborate to share knowledge, values, and innovative ideas for a successful future.
Panelists: Julia Choi, Jeffrey Beers International; Meghann Day, HBA International; Mary Alice Palmer, ROAM; Casey Scalf, Studio Outrider. Moderated by Stacy Shoemaker Rauen, Stay and Gather
Anacostia D
sponsored by Integra Fabrics
AROUND THE WORLD IN ONE TEAM: Navigating Culture, Time, and Distance
Navigating the potential pathways and pitfalls on the road to successful design Internationally. Understanding the cultural expectations of our customers and how each project requires consideration of local and regional partnerships. The skills necessary to manage projects Internationally.
Panelists: Bridget Bedard, Kasian Architecture and Interior Design; Boris Gentine, Saquez & Dash; Carl Long, Purchasing Management International. Moderated by Matt DeShantz, Panaz
Anacostia E
FIRESIDE CHAT: Conversations & Stories with the Road Warriors
Exploring the career of an Independent Sales Representative
A team of independent representatives share their stories, thoughts, and experiences, creating a space where connection, collaboration, and the behind‑the‑scenes moments that define their work.
Panelists: Steve Goldfeder, GoFed Group, Inc.; Sherri Juhl-Leach and JJ Leach, SJ Concepts; Macelle Albelda and Eric Worthington, WE Hospitality. Moderated by Cynthia Guthrie, Guthrie & Associates, Inc.
Anacostia F
2:00-2:15 pm Break
Breakouts…..
2:15-3:15 pm DESIGN YOUR DESTINY: Unlocking Career Opportunities in Hospitality
We will explore the diverse professional pathways within the industry, specifically tailored for entry-level talent, and career changers, and students. Featuring a cross-discipline panel of experts, the discussion delves into essential soft skills, the power of mentorship, and the critical importance of professional reputation in a competitive global market. Attendees will gain actionable insights on navigating current economic trends and leveraging industry networks—like NEWH—to advocate for their own growth and shape the future of hospitality.
Panelists: Sarah Churchill, 10 Design; Mary Rose Grippe, m.r. design lab; Thomas Penny, Donohoe Hospitality; Jeanne Varney, Cornell University; Camryn Willis, NEWH/Atlanta Chapter. Moderated by Valerie Coleman, Marriott International.
Anacostia D
NEWH GREEN VOICE: Defining Sustainability in Hospitality Through the Common Materials Framework
Sustainability can often be an ambiguous topic. Questions arise including: What defines a sustainable material? How can we ensure that we are specifying and using materials that minimize risk to our occupants and the environment?  In this session we will hear from Mindful Materials, the creators of the Common Materials Framework (CMF) – a shared language for product sustainability—built to bring clarity and alignment to a complex landscape.  Joining mM on the panel will be Cunningham, who is thoughtfully integrating the CMF into their daily practice; and Hilton who is continuously moving forward on their sustainability practices and will highlight many of their challenges and opportunities.  This will be a dynamic discussion with the intent to identify pathways to accelerate sustainable material specification in the hospitality space.
Panelists: Anthony Guerrero, mindful MATERIALS; Ashley Michaels, Hilton; Katie Sander Smith, Cuningham. Moderated by Rachel Berkin, Rockfon
Anacostia E
sponsored by Delos
FROM INVISIBLE TO ICONIC: What Makes a Company Stand Out?
From Invisible to Iconic: What Makes a Company Stand Out? brings together leading marketing experts to explore how hospitality brands can rise above the noise through storytelling, digital strategy, and consistent brand experiences. Designed for designers, manufacturers, hotels, restaurants, and product companies, this conversation will reveal what’s actually working now to build visibility, loyalty, and differentiation. Attendees will walk away with practical insights and real-world strategies to help their brand stand out in 2026 and beyond.
Panelists: Suze Fernandez, UpSpring; Nicole Lashae Hall; Thrive In Design. Moderated by Helen Reed, Helen Reed Design
Anacostia F
3:30-5:00 pm Pre-Closing Event – open to all registered conference attendees
Capital Connections: Music & Merriment
Celebrate connection the DC way with a dynamic lawn experience inspired by the National Mall. Featuring music spun by DJ VSmooth!, guided Hand Dancing lessons with a seasoned team, and elevated lawn games, this interactive social is designed to bring our hospitality community together in a fresh, engaging setting. Build relationships and enjoy an afternoon that’s equal parts meaningful and memorable.
Potomac Ballroom
5:15-5:30 pm Buses leave for River Cruise – Don’t be late, the boat will leave without you!
Westin DC Porte Cochere – 9th Street
  Passenger loading is located on K Street at The Westin DC Downtown
7:00-10:00 pm POTOMAC RIVER CRUISE – Chapter Conference Closing Party  (separate ticket purchase required)
10:00 pm Cruise concluded and buses depart for Westin DC Downtown
Stay a While and Self-Explore Washington DC!
To “See & Do” DC, use the NEWH/Washington DC guide you received at registration.