CAFÉ Update February 2, 2026

Headlining the event is Mark Graham, Global Director of Innovation at Windoria Foods, a venture capital firm shaping the future of global food manufacturing. In his keynote, “Innovating Through Scenario Planning,” Mark will challenge leaders to think boldly and strategically about what’s next.

To see his complete bio, click here.

Next is Ann Zuccardy, a dynamic two-time TEDx speaker, adjunct professor, and former specialty food entrepreneur. With more than 30 years of business experience — including her recent career as a civilian technical writer for the U.S. Department of Defense — Ann brings powerful insight into connection and communication. Her session, “Storytelling and the Art of Listening,” promises to inspire meaningful dialogue and fresh perspective.

To see her complete bio, click here.

Rounding out the day is Professor Joe Conto, whose four-plus decades in hospitality and higher education leadership make him a favorite among educators. Drawing on his 20 years at Paul Smith’s College, Professor Conto will lead “IMPROV as a Thinking Tool,” an engaging session designed to spark creativity and adaptive thinking.

To see his complete bio, click here.

We look forward hearing from these speakers in Chicago!

Master Class Information – Chocolate and Pizza

Click here, for genaral conference information and registration links.

The hotel accommodations is the Palmer House Hilton in Chicago. We will be in walking distance (0.7 mi) to the S. Michigan Avenue campus of Kendall College.

The Hotel is located in a perfect area to explore and enjoy Chicago and its riverfront, great restaurants, outdoor art and more!

For hotel registration information, click here. 

2026 CAFÉ Award Information

The information on the 2026 CAFÉ Awards is now available on our website.

To view all awards go to cafemeetingplace.com/scholarship-awards.

2026 Educator of the Year Award (Secondary & Postsecondary)

2026 Technology Award

2026 Innovation Award

2026 Community Outreach Award

2026 Entrepreneurship Award

2026 Student of the Year Award

If you know a fellow teacher that would be great for an award you can nominate them or it is ok to nominate yourself. Just remember you have to apply to win.

Previous applicants and winners are encourage to apply. 

Also, if you have a culinary/hospitality student that would like a wonderful opportunity, the Idaho Potato Commission will be offering their 4th annual Student of the Year Award. 

Deadline for applications: April 1, 2026

Have you checked out CAFÉ Talks Podcast?

Our host, Paul Sorgule has spearheaded this podcast and has done a wonderful job. He has interviewed over 100 of the most influential people in education, culinary classrooms, the foodservice industry, leadership, innovation, culinary history, and management – there is something for everyone to relish and use. 

Have you thought about integrating the CAFÉ Talks Podcast into your student curriculum for an assignment? Have you thought "I really wish I could remember which podcast pertained to a certain subject?"

Paul Sorgule, has created an organized chart that demonstrates where each interview might apply in your classrooms as assignments or a point of reference for faculty. 

Click here to download your copy of the chart.

We could not have produced this podcast series if it wasn't for our sponsors who we thank very much for their continued support of CAFÉ.