This is your chance to be part of something BIG in the catering industry! The education subcommittee is currently accepting proposals from industry-leaders and innovators who want to be a part of ASCEND programming.

Proposals should be geared towards advanced, high-level catering professionals and in line with our core pillars: Imagine, Build, Serve, Become

Proposal formats can include keynotes, immersive labs, fireside chats, workshops, or panel discussions. Submitting a proposal does not ensure acceptance. Only proposals submitted using the online form and completed in its entirety will be accepted.

*A Note on Originality: ASCEND is all about new ideas and fresh energy. We’re intentionally curating education that feels different from anything our industry has seen before. Please only submit sessions that are original to ASCEND and have not been presented elsewhere.

Call for proposals is open through December 31, 2025. SUBMIT YOUR PROPOSAL(S) HERE

The Imagine pillar is all about the artistry of what we do - the spark that makes hospitality feel magical.

Focus Areas:

• Culinary Innovation: food as art, food trends, sustainability in menu design.
• Event Design: storytelling through décor, lighting, florals, and immersive environments.    
• Technology: how AI, VR, and other tools enhance creativity and client experiences.
• Innovation Labs: hands-on demos of what’s next in food, beverage, service, and design.

Attendee Takeaways: Inspiration that stretches creative boundaries and shows them what’s possible.

The Build pillar is the engine of ASCEND - where we talk about how to grow sustainably, profitably, and strategically.

Focus Areas:

• Financial fluency: pricing, profitability, forecasting, KPIs, contract strategy.
• Sales + marketing: digital strategy, branding, lead generation, closing deals.
• Sustainability + scalability: how to grow responsibly while protecting culture and service.             
• Ownership mindset: succession planning, acquisitions, exits, and next-gen leadership.

Attendee Takeaways: Practical strategies they can use tomorrow to strengthen and scale their business.

The Serve pillar is the heart of our industry - how we care for our clients, our teams, and our communities.

Focus Areas:

• Service design: mapping the guest journey, creating memorable touchpoints.       
• Emotional hospitality: empathy, communication, and managing client stress.
• Team care: training, burnout prevention, recognition, and retention.
• DEI in action: inclusive menus, accessible event design, cultural celebration.

Attendee Takeaways: Tools to create experiences that feel personal, thoughtful, and unforgettable.

The Become pillar makes sure people don’t just grow their business - they grow themselves.

Focus Areas:

• Leadership: brave conversations, team culture, feedback, coaching.         
• Mindset: resilience, adaptability, handling stress, navigating change.
• Wellness: work-life balance, mental health, physical health for hospitality pros.
• Legacy: building careers and companies that last, mentoring the next generation.

Attendee Takeaways: A sense of renewal and empowerment - leaving with tools to lead well and live well.