2026 Women in Hospitality Leadership Conference
April 19-20, 2026
Presented by
Two-day leadership conference in Las Vegas designed to cultivate togetherness, initiate conversation, inspire growth, and educate.
Women’s Hospitality Initiative (WHI) provides research-based education, networking and support systems for women in the industry. Co-Founded by Elizabeth Blau of Blau & Associates, Mary Choi Kelly PhD of MCK Leadership Talent Group, Kristin Whittemore of Carma Connected, and Jolene Mannina of Fortune Events, WHI is committed to developing and implementing programs for women to grow and achieve leadership positions in the hospitality and restaurant community. It is a component fund of Nevada Community Foundation.
Rebels EmpowHer professional development program strives to lay the foundations for personal and professional growth. Graciously supported and funded by Diana Bennett & the Bennett Family Foundation, the program is geared towards student-athletes who identify as women and/or are allies of women.
The curriculum is set to guide students through a four-year transformation that allocates the necessary tools, mentorship, and networking opportunities to successfully navigate their career launch post-graduation. EmpowHer aims to attract, retain, and support the future leaders of Las Vegas from UNLV Women sports programs!
In collaboration with UNLV’s Leaderverse Initiative, The WomenUp Leadership Enhancement Program is a six-month, immersive leadership cohort specifically crafted for and designed to empower high-performing, senior-level women working in corporate organizations.
Co-founded and led by Jan Jones Blackhurst, chief executive in residence at UNLV’s International Gaming Institute, a Caesars Entertainment board member and first female mayor of Las Vegas, WomenUp aims to dismantle the “glass ceiling” with practical tools, confidence-building, and meaningful mentorship.
Education
Empowerment
UNLV William F. Harrah College of Hospitality
Monday, April 20
Available to the public, this food & wine fundraising event will feature an abundant array of gourmet food from local women-led restaurants, specialty cocktails, and fine wine.
All event proceeds will benefit Women’s Hospitality Initiative, Rebel’s EmpowHER, and WomenUp, continuing each organization’s mission to support women in the advancement of their careers.
