Hospitality Leadership Summit: EI through AI

Friday, April 10, 2026
Wightman Mansion, 43 Hawes Street, Boston 

In today’s transformative era of widespread Artificial Intelligence, how can the hospitality industry embrace AI’s benefits while preserving the unique human experiences that define it? 

Boston University School of Hospitality invites students, faculty, professionals, and hospitality enthusiasts to the Hospitality Leadership Summit, a dynamic day of inspiration, insightful discussion, and meaningful networking. Join forward-thinking leaders—from journalists and entrepreneurs to owners and operators—as they share innovative ideas and explore the cultural shifts shaping the present and future of hospitality. 

The Summit also features: 

• Finalists of the $50k Hospitality Innovation and the $20k Student Wellbeing competitions 
• Networking Lunch 
• Celebration of the 2026 ICON Award & Reception 

Get Tickets

Early-bird discount pricing is available through March 4, 2026. Complimentary tickets are available for BU students and faculty.

Event Co-Chairs:
Mara Littman, Executive Director of Strategic Operations & Corporate Relations
Eleni Granas, Clinical Assistant Professor of Hospitality and Events Management; Director of Event Curriculum & Planning
Eli Feldman, Adjunct Professor of Restaurant Innovation and Owner, Shy Bird

Agenda

9:00AM: Welcome Address – Dean Arun Upneja

9:15 AM: The Simmer: Live Podcast Recording 
Kristen Hawley, founder of Expedite & Brandon Barton, CEO of Bite (Hosts)
with Judy Thelen, CEO & Co-Founder of beli 
followed by Q&A

10:30 AM: Networking Break 

10:45 am – 12:45 pm: $50k Hospitality Innovation Competition & $20k Student Wellbeing Competition – Final Round  

12:45 PM: Lunch & Networking 

1:45 PM: Immersive Performance 

2:00 PM: Afternoon Panel: The Medium is the Message
Moderated by Eli Feldman, Adjunct Professor of Restaurant Innovation & Owner, Shy Bird

Josh Sharkey, CEO & Co-Founder, Meez
Gretchen Thomas, Chief Creative Officer for Barcelona Wine Bar and Co-Creator of Conserva 
Evan Armstrong, Founder & CEO, The Leverage
followed by Q&A

3:15 PM: Networking Break 

3:30 PM: ICON Award Presentation
fireside chat with Dean Arun Upneja followed by Q&A

4:45 PM: Closing Remarks  

5:00 PM: Announcement of Hospitality Innovation Competition Winners   

5:15 PM – 6:00 PM: Reception & Speed Networking with Sponsors and Speakers  

*Agenda is subject to change. 

Platinum Sponsor

Gold

Supporter
Uncommon Hospitality

As of 12.18.25