2026 NACE Evolve Conference for Chapter Leaders | National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) on Glue Up

Inspiring Leaders and Empowering Chapters

Elevate your chapter leadership and pave the way for new heights of chapter success by attending the 2026 NACE Evolve Conference.

This three-day event is designed to equip chapter leaders with the tools, strategies, connections and inspiration you need to foster growth, engagement, and success. With expert-led sessions focusing on membership, programming, and branding and more, Evolve is your opportunity to transform your chapter and make a lasting impact within the NACE community.

Attendance is essential: To ensure every chapter thrives, each NACE chapter must send at least one leader to attend this invaluable experience.

By attending, you are investing in your chapter's future, ensuring it runs smoothly, attracts new members, and builds influence within the community. Join us and be a part of the next generation of NACE leaders, shaping the future of our chapters and the broader catering and events industry.

Key Takeaways Include:

Practical strategies for growing membership and improving member retention
Proven approaches to creating engaging programs and events
Best practices in chapter branding and community presence
Networking and idea-sharing with chapter leaders from across the country

Don't miss this opportunity to empower your chapter's leadership, strengthen your team, and contribute to the future success of NACE!

Agenda

January 23, 2026
January 24, 2026
January 25, 2026
January 26, 2026

January 23, 2026

Main Schedule

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Optional Pre-Conference Education: CPCE Fast Track

YOU MUST PURCHASE A SEPARATE TICKET TO ATTEND. This is an optional, add-on ticket prior to the beginning of the Evolve Conference. The CPCE Fast Track course helps prepare candidates for the CPCE exam. This program should be used as a supplement to The Professional Reference Guide for the Catering and Event Industry, Second Edition.

This course includes breakfast, lunch, and a printed copy of the Fast Track Workbook.

Patrick Higgins, CPCE

Speakers and Facilitators

Tom Chelednik

Director of Vendor Engagement at Wedding Pro

Casey Moujaes

VP, US Vendor Marketing and Global Product Marketing at The Knot Worldwide

Jennifer Burns

Owner of All the Things, LLC

Kelly Dalisa, CPCE

District Account Executive at CORT EVENT FURNISHING

Sarah Davidson, CPCE

Director of Special Events at FPC Live

Erin Dennis, CPCE

Evergreen Hospitality Solutions

Robin Denny, MBA, CPCE, CERP

ColoradoSummit Party Rentals

Michelle Dunnick, MBA, CPCE

Immediate Past President of NACE

Lauren Eck

Regional Vice President of Sales, East at Wolfgang Puck Catering

Patrick Higgins, CPCE

Co-Owner of Artistic Florals, Inc.

Jennifer Jenkins, CPCE

Director of Catering & Events at Sugar Creek Country Club

Erin Kenyan, CPCE, CHE

Instructional Associate Professor at University of Houston

Stephanie Olivares, CPCE

Account Manager at Hello! Texas Destination Management

Renee Pool, CPCE

Rental Guru at AFR Furniture Rentals

Richard Portney, CPCE

Director of Farmhouse and Fern and Fable Operations at The Farmhouse at Peoples Light

Alli Prato, CPCE

Event Coordinator at The Boathouse

Michelle Stansfield, CPCE

Terramar, A DMC Network Company

2026 Chapter Leaders Council Mentor & Roundtable Facilitator

With over 25 years of experience in the marketing and special events industry, commencing with holding a variety of marketing and public relations positions in the High - Tech sector which took her all over the country as well as international locations such as London and Beijing. Following her time in the Technology industry she co-owned three-sixty events, an event marketing firm focused on social and corporate events. After five years, Jennifer moved on to work for BEYOND a full-service audio visual, lighting and video company, where she spent 10 years. Over those 10 years she was responsible for sales and marketing and general office operations. In June 2019, Jennifer took the position of President for Illumination Fireworks, a full-service pyrotechnics, special effects and confetti company. Where she was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company. In 2024, upon leaving her operational responsibility within Illumination Fireworks, she started her own sales and marketing consulting firm, All the Things, LLC, serving clients in hospitality and non-profits sectors.

Roundtable Facilitator

Kelly Dalisa, CPCE, currently serving on the National Board of NACE, began her career over 20 years ago as an owner/operator of an upscale wedding venue. With a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, she has expanded her talents into non-profit, corporate, and social events through various roles in design, sales, and operations. As a national sales executive for CORT Events, she has been able to use her years of experience in strategic design to help her clients execute events for their high-profile clients. No matter the size of the event, Kelly’s goal is to always exceed the client’s expectations by supporting them with innovative ideas and strategic solutions to create memorable events.

Sarah Davidson, CPCE is an events strategist and Director of Special Events at FPC Live. She leads strategy and execution for high‑profile venue events, partnering with internal and external teams to deliver guest‑centric programs that drive revenue and strengthen brand affinity. Previously, she founded HUE by Sarah Davidson, a wedding planning and design studio serving the Wisconsin market.

Sarah is an engaged volunteer with NACE, serving as a Chapter Mentor on the Chapter Leaders Council and contributing tools and guidance for board governance, programming, membership, and communications. She has previously served eight years on the NACE Madison Board of Directors, including as President, and has won multiple NACE One Awards. Her approach favors clear goals, simple systems, and measurable outcomes that help chapters and clients move faster with confidence.

2026 Chapter Leaders Council Mentor & Roundtable Facilitator

Erin Dennis is the founder of Evergreen Hospitality Solutions, a consulting, education, and task-force management company dedicated to strengthening hospitality sales and event teams within hotels, event venues, and event-focused organizations. Erin helps teams elevate their marketing strategies, restructure for performance, and provides professional management and support for sales departments and events.

With over 30 years of experience in catering, sales, marketing, leadership development, and hospitality operations, Erin has built a career grounded in strategy, service, and relationship building. She has led high-performing teams, overseen complex projects, and developed strategic sales and marketing plans for hotels, catering companies, and event industry professionals.

For 18 years, Erin served as an adjunct instructor at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, NC, teaching Hospitality Marketing and Meetings & Event Planning. A passionate educator and mentor, she has hosted more than 25 interns and continues to deliver networking, leadership, and professional development presentations for associations and student groups nationwide.

Erin has been an active and dedicated member of the Charlotte Chapter of NACE (National Association for Catering & Events) since 1995—celebrating 30 years of involvement. In 2026, she will return to the NACE Charlotte Board of Directors and will also serve on the NACE National Board as a NACE Chapter Mentor on the Chapter Leaders Council, supporting chapter leaders across the country.

Above all, Erin is most proud of her role as a mentor. She finds her greatest joy in sharing her knowledge—whether supporting emerging hospitality professionals or guiding seasoned leaders looking to grow and evolve.

Conference Ambassador

Michelle Dunnick is a nationally recognized leader in the catering and events industry and the Immediate Past President of the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE), where she also served as National President in 2024. A New Orleanian for the past 21 years, Michelle has dedicated her career to creating meaningful experiences, advancing professional standards, and championing community impact.

She was formerly the Director of Events and Hospitality Investment Training at the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI), where she developed impactful training and hospitality programs for leading organizations including Aramark, Sodexo Live, Diageo, and Viking Mississippi. Her career also includes nearly a decade with Tales of the Cocktail, where she led signature programs like the Spirited Awards, as well as senior leadership at United Way of Southeast Louisiana, directing major fundraising events and disaster relief initiatives during Hurricane Ida and the COVID-19 pandemic.

A proud graduate of Loyola University New Orleans, Michelle holds a degree in Mass Communications with a minor in Visual Arts, as well as an MBA. In 2024, she was named to BizBash’s “40 Under 40” for her innovation, leadership, and influence on the events industry.

Roundtable Facilitator

Planning has been part of Lauren Eck’s life since childhood, when she often accompanied her mother to volunteer events and helped coordinate local parties and galas. Her passion for hospitality grew during her time at Penn State University, where she completed a key internship with Design Cuisine in Washington, D.C. This experience confirmed her interest in the food and beverage events industry and set the direction for her career.

In 2010, Lauren moved to Dallas and joined Edison’s, a 15,000 square foot event facility near the convention center. She gained comprehensive, hands-on experience and advanced to Director of Events. In 2012, she joined Wolfgang Puck Catering as Catering Sales Manager at Reunion Tower. Over the next several years, she progressed into larger leadership roles and eventually became Regional Director of Catering Sales for Texas, overseeing teams, venues, and off-premise catering throughout the Dallas and Houston markets.

Lauren now serves as the Regional Vice President of Sales for the East region at Wolfgang Puck Catering. In this role, she guides sales strategy, supports multi-market teams, and drives growth across a wide range of venues and off-premise operations.

She remains actively involved in professional associations, including NACE and PCMA. Her long history with the DFW chapter of NACE includes holding various leadership positions, including President and is the current Immediate Past President. She has received numerous honors such as Caterer of the Year (2013), National Presidents List (2014), DFW Chapter Presidents List (2016), and induction into the DFW NACE Hall of Fame (2022). She also participates in the Houston chapter of NACE and continues to support the broader events community through mentorship, education, and industry engagement.

Lauren is known for her dedication to service, her strong leadership style, and her commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for clients and partners.

CPCE Trainer

Patrick Higgins, CPCE, is an engaging and collaborative leader with 30+ years of experience as a Business Owner/Operator of a successful local floral & decor event company. He is a dynamic classroom and virtual instructor, passionate about infusing real-life hospitality practices into the student learning experience. Patrick is the Owner of Artistic Florals Inc, Adjunct Professor at San Diego State University, and the Education Chair of the San Diego Chapter of NACE. He has a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management from SDSU and won the 2019 Most Influential Senior Award from the university. Patrick was also awarded Most Inspirational Chapter Member from the San Diego Chapter of NACE and Most Creative Downtown Holiday Décor from Downtown Partnership.

Roundtable Facilitator

Jennifer graduated from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science. She worked at the Texas State Aquarium throughout high school and college in the diving and education department. Although she loved diving with sharks and sea turtles, she thrived on interacting with the public. Upon graduation, Jenn began working for an environmental company in Round Rock while also bartending part-time at Berry Creek Country Club. She was no stranger to golf courses as her grandfather played with the likes of Jack Nicklaus & the late Arnold Palmer. Within six months, Jenn received the opportunity to become the Private Events Director at Berry Creek. It was here that she found her calling. In June 2010, she was promoted to Catering Sales Manager at The Club at Sonterra in San Antonio, TX and then received the Director of Catering position in January 2014. In November 2015, Jenn took the opportunity to work at the iconic Clubs of Kingwood as the Private Events Director. One year later, however, Jenn jumped at the opportunity to work alongside her mentor at Sugar Creek Country Club. As the Director of Catering and Events, she has since made Sugar Land her new home.

Jennifer has been an active member of the NACE organization since 2009 and continues to become more involved each year. She participated on several different NACE committees with both the Alamo and Houston Chapter. Jenn joined the Houston Board of Directors in 2020 and served as the Chapter Relations Director and Vice President of Membership and is beginning her second term as Chapter President. Each position has marked a significant chapter in her leadership journey, where she’s focused on strengthening member engagement, supporting professional development, and building a strong sense of community among peers. She has also received over 20 awards for events such as Catered Event of the Year and Wedding of the Year, both locally and nationally, since 2019. Beyond NACE, Jenn actively mentors hospitality students from the University of Houston, helping guide the next generation of professionals through networking, shadowing opportunities, and career advice. In her spare time, Jenn loves to craft, decorate for the holidays (especially Halloween!) and spend time with friends and family.

Roundtable Facilitator

Erin Kenyan has over thirty years of service in the Hospitality Industry and currently, using this industry experience to teach for The Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership at the University of Houston. She has been teaching for the Hilton College since early 2005 and currently teaches a wide range of course such as lodging management, multicultural and business etiquette, hospitality leadership, event administration, convention and meeting management, hotel sales, and has facilitated hands on event learning experience courses; Corks and Forks, Gourmet Night, Hall of Honor, and Executive in Residence Day. She is a proud member of NACE where she has served on a national committees as well as held several board positions on the Houston Board. She is also the faculty advisor for the NACE student chapter. For her efforts with the Houston chapter and others around the nation, she was recognized with the 2018 Member of the Year award, 2014 George Zell Spirt of NACE and 2009 Houston NACE Baumann Reinhardt Member of the Year Award. In 2024, she was awarded with the NACE Houston Legacy Award for her 20 years of dedication to the organization.

2026 National CLC Director, Workshop Leader & Roundtable Facilitator

Stephanie Olivares, CPCE, is a seasoned event professional with over a decade of experience in the catering and events industry. A proud graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Sport Management, Stephanie began her professional career working with sports teams and organizations. However, her passion for crafting impactful events soon led her to transition into the events industry, where she has since thrived. Specializing in event management and strategic sales and marketing campaigns, Stephanie is dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences that leave a lasting impression. She is also deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of event professionals, providing guidance and fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence. Stephanie prides herself on building strong, lasting relationships with both clients and colleagues, always striving to exceed expectations and elevate every event she touches. An active member of the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE), Stephanie currently serves on the NACE National Board of Directors as the Chapter Leader Council Director.

2026 Chapter Leaders Council Mentor, Workshop Leader & Roundtable Facilitator
Alli Prato, CPCE, is the Event Coordinator at The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing in Richmond, Virginia. Alli has been with The Boathouse since 2011 and coordinates at least 30 weddings and over 300 social/corporate events a year.

Alli has been a NACE member since 2016 and is currently serving on her local board as Immediate Past President. Alli is serving her third year on the NACE Chapter Leaders Council and enjoys getting to know other chapters while offering a helpful hand wherever it is needed.

Outside of work, Alli enjoys spending time with her husband, Kyle, and her family, especially her nieces and nephews. She stays active through local fitness classes and loves exploring the outdoors. When she is not training her three year old rescue dog, she is soaking up all her doggy snuggles and kisses.

Roundtable Facilitator

Michelle Stansfield, CPCE brings more than 25 years of experience in the meetings and events industry, having successfully planned and executed events across Colorado, Los Angeles, Central Oregon, and Palm Springs. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management and an associate degree in Culinary Arts—credentials that laid the foundation for a career where creativity, hospitality, and strategic execution intersect.

Michelle began her career in hotel catering and convention services, spending 15 years honing her expertise in large-scale meetings and events. She then joined Chic Productions, where she dedicated a decade to producing weddings and nonprofit events with a strong focus on personalized experiences and meaningful impact. In 2024, Michelle joined Terramar, DMC, in their Palm Springs office, continuing her passion for creating memorable and thoughtfully designed events.

A committed industry leader, Michelle has been a member of NACE for more than 25 years and is actively involved in both the Greater Palm Springs and San Diego Chapters. She currently serves as NACE National President, reflecting her long-standing dedication to advancing the meetings and events profession.

Outside of work, Michelle enjoys cooking, traveling with her family, cheering on the Coachella Valley Firebirds, and attending concerts.

Hotel and Travel Information

DoubleTree by Hilton Nashville Downtown

315 4th Avenue North

Nashville, Tennessee

We're in downtown Nashville, a five-minute walk from the row of honky-tonks and bars on Broadway. Famous attractions like Ryman Auditorium, Bridgestone Arena, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum are within half a mile of our door. We feature live music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights at our Fourth and U restaurant and bar.

Room rate: $199/night plus tax

King or Double Queen

Hotel block deadline has passed - please email conference@nace.net to see if there is still availability.

Travel Information

Closest Airport: Nashville International Airport

Distance From Property: 8.0 Miles

Chapter Leader Registration

This ticket does not include the Foundation of NACE event on January 25, 2026.

If you are not a NACE member or believe you are a member but are unable to proceed with registration, contact conference@nace.net

Member Price$685

Chapter Leader Registration + Foundation of NACE Event Ticket

This ticket includes your Chapter Leader Registration and access to the Foundation of NACE Event on January 25, 2026.

If you are not a NACE member or believe you are a member but are unable to proceed with registration, contact conference@nace.net

Member Price$780

Student Leader Registration

This ticket does not include the Foundation of NACE event on January 25, 2026.

If you are not a NACE Student member or believe you are a Student member but are unable to proceed with registration, contact conference@nace.net

Member Price$380

Student Registration + Foundation of NACE Event Ticket

This ticket includes your Student Leader Registration and access to the Foundation of NACE Event on January 25, 2026.

If you are not a NACE Student member or believe you are a member but are unable to proceed with registration, contact conference@nace.net

Member Price$430

ONLY Foundation of NACE Event Ticket - Members and Guests

Event is on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

Use this option if you are ONLY attending the Foundation of NACE Event.

Standard Price$95

ONLY Foundation of NACE Event - Students

Event is on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

Use this option if you are ONLY attending the Foundation of NACE Event.

Member Price$50

CPCE Fast Track

The CPCE Fast Track is on Friday, the day before the conference begins, and includes lunch. This class is worth 8 educational contact hours toward CPCE application; however, attendees are not required to apply for CPCE to attend the class.

Member Price$299

Standard Price$399

APPROVAL NEEDED - Speaker/Sponsor Registration

Standard Price$585

REFUND POLICY

Prior to January 2, 2026, you are eligible to receive a full refund.

After January 2, 2026, no refunds will be granted.

Registrations are allowed to be transferred to other NACE chapter leaders up until the start of the event.

NACE Evolve Sponsors and Partners

Foundation of NACE Event Information

Sunday, January 25, 2026 - 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Get ready for a true Nashville-style celebration with a purpose. The Foundation of NACE Event at Evolve 2026 will take place at the iconic Category 10 Rooftop Bar, blending the energy of Music City with the heart of our mission.

Guests will experience an elevated honky-tonk inspired evening in a vibrant rooftop setting, complete with live entertainment, sweeping city views, an extensive bar, and a menu crafted to satisfy every taste bud.

Beyond the celebration, this event brings Chapter Leaders, the Movers & Shakers together to help fund 'a better future' for catering and events professionals. Come support the Foundation's work that benefits NACE Chapters, awards educational scholarships and strengthens our industry. Enjoy entertaining and engaging fundraising moments:

Heads & Tails – a fast-paced, high-energy game of chance with exciting prizes
Dress to Impress Nashville Style – Dust off your boots and bring your boldest western vibes. Prizes await the standout styles. - Click Here for Ideas!
On-site initiatives including donation moments and scholarship spotlights

This signature evening is designed to be more than a party, it is a place where creativity, community, and cause collide. Every ticket, every toast, and every contribution fuels scholarships, certifications, and professional development opportunities for the next generation of hospitality leaders.

Join us high above the city for a night of music, movement, and meaningful impact... in true Nashville style.

Transportation to the event will be provided. Check out a preview of the evening's menu here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I tried to register but received an error message. What happened?

A: NACE membership determines your registration package, and it is validated by using your email address. To receive member pricing, enter the primary email on your NACE member profile. If the email you enter shows as invalid, please contact NACE staff to verify the correct email address.

Q: How do I modify my registration?

A: Please contact NACE staff and provide information about the modifications you're requesting and we will be happy to assist with this.

Q: I cannot find my confirmation email. What should I do?

A: Please contact NACE staff and we will resend your confirmation.

Q: Can our chapter register as a group?

A: No, each person must register individually. However, you may pay as a group. After all the individuals in your group have registered and selected "Check" as their payment method, contact NACE staff and we will create and send a group invoice.

Q: I am paying for my registration by check. Who do I make the check payable to and where do I send it?

A: After completing your registration online, mail your check (made payable to NACE) to 10440 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite 300, Columbia, MD 21044

Please include a copy of your confirmation email with the check, along with your phone number.

Please note: All payments are due within 30 days of registration.

Q: I paid for my registration, but I did not receive a receipt. What should I do?

A: Please contact NACE staff and we will send you a receipt.

Q: Can students attend the conference?

A: Yes, student members receive a discounted registration rate. If you are a student member of NACE, make sure to use your NACE membership email address and select the student registration.

Q: Is the Foundation of NACE Event on January 25 included in the Chapter Leader Registration ticket?

A: The Foundation of NACE Event ticket is only included in the package option that is called Chapter Leader Registration + Foundation of NACE Event Ticket. You may also add a separate ticket to the event during or after your registration for the conference.

Q: How do I cancel my registration?

A: Contact NACE staff with your request for cancellation. Please note the cancellation and refund policy:

Prior to January 2, 2026, you are eligible to receive a full refund.

After January 2, 2026, no refunds will be granted.

Registrations are allowed to be transferred to other NACE chapter leaders up until the start of the event.

Q: I registered but now I'm unable to attend and our chapter would like to send someone else in my place. Is it possible to transfer my Evolve registration?

How to Transfer a Ticket:

Log in to your My Glue account.
Locate the event and the ticket you wish to transfer.
Click on the three-dots action button next to the ticket.
Select Transfer Ticket.
Provide the recipient's email address, first name, and last name, and confirm the transfer.
The recipient will receive an email to claim the ticket. Once they complete the registration, the transfer is finalized.

National Association for Catering and Events (NACE)

Contact us

Inspiring Leaders and Empowering Chapters

Agenda

January 23, 2026

January 24, 2026

January 25, 2026

January 26, 2026

January 23, 2026

Main Schedule

January 24, 2026

Main Schedule

January 25, 2026

Main Schedule

January 26, 2026

Main Schedule

Speakers and Facilitators

Tom Chelednik

Casey Moujaes

Jennifer Burns

Kelly Dalisa, CPCE

Sarah Davidson, CPCE

Erin Dennis, CPCE

Robin Denny, MBA, CPCE, CERP

Michelle Dunnick, MBA, CPCE

Lauren Eck

Patrick Higgins, CPCE

Jennifer Jenkins, CPCE

Erin Kenyan, CPCE, CHE

Stephanie Olivares, CPCE

Renee Pool, CPCE

Richard Portney, CPCE

Alli Prato, CPCE

Michelle Stansfield, CPCE

Hotel and Travel Information

Travel Information

Tickets

Chapter Leader Registration

Chapter Leader Registration + Foundation of NACE Event Ticket

Student Leader Registration

Student Registration + Foundation of NACE Event Ticket

ONLY Foundation of NACE Event Ticket - Members and Guests

ONLY Foundation of NACE Event - Students

CPCE Fast Track

APPROVAL NEEDED - Speaker/Sponsor Registration

NACE Evolve Sponsors and Partners

Educational Sponsor

Keynote Speaker Sponsor

Conference Sponsor

NACE National Partners

Organizer

Foundation of NACE Event Information

Sponsors

Frequently Asked Questions

Community

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