Apr 25, 2026
Davidson Hospitality Group was honored to have more than 40 corporate and property-level team members attend the AHLA Foundation’s 2026 ForWard Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, recognizing the women of the hospitality industry and championing the next generation of leaders.
This year’s theme, influence, focused on understanding the “fluid force that shapes who we are and how we lead.” The two-day program offered thoughtful sessions with visionaries rewriting the rules of hospitality leadership; strategic networking with peers, mentors, and changemakers across the industry; actionable strategies to implement; and a thoughtfully designed environment where women leaders connect, collaborate, and create lasting change.
Here are some of our key takeaways and highlights:
“Attending AHLA ForWard was an energizing reminder of the power of women leading and shaping the future of hospitality. From the moment I walked in and saw so many talented leaders gathered in one place, I knew it would be a special experience. One of my biggest takeaways was the importance of stepping back from the day-to-day demands to see the bigger picture, connect the dots, and stay focused on the why behind our work. When our actions are aligned with a clear vision and overall strategy, we create more meaningful impact and continue moving forward with purpose.”
– Kathryn Collins, Vice President, Marketing, Davidson Hospitality Group
“The AHLA ForWard Conference is a powerful opportunity to spend intentional time focusing on professional growth and connecting with other leaders in the industry, as well as our colleagues at Davidson. I truly enjoyed the session hosted by Dr. Romie Mushtaq who emphasized taking control of our “Busy Brain” to better manage our stress through better health, thus improving our wellness, success and performance.”
– Elizabeth Colombo, Vice President, Corporate Counsel, Davidson Hospitality Group
“The ForWard Conference was an incredible opportunity to learn from successful and inspirational leaders and walk away with habits and qualities I can genuinely apply to my day-to-day career. One of my biggest takeaways was that success is built by being a “fixer.” Dagmar Boggs spoke about leaning into challenges and actively seeking partnership with leaders and peers as a path to growth. Because every challenge comes inevitable road bumps, and it is how you respond to those moments that sets you apart. That idea connected with Bobby Brown’s memorable tagline, “So what, now what?” A simple but powerful reminder to acknowledge setbacks and immediately shift your focus toward solutions.”
– Nicole Icen, Analyst, Strategic Operations, Davidson Hospitality Group
“At the ForWard Conference, my key takeaway was the quote “So what, now what?” shared by Bobbi Brown. The conference moved beyond inspiration by offering tangible tools and actionable guidance to address the “now what.” It reinforced practical ways for women in the workplace to take meaningful steps toward advancement and impact.”
– Abby Marry, Financial Analyst, Davidson Hospitality Group
“This year’s theme of AHLA’s FORWARD conference was influence. Taking time to step out of the business of day-to-day work life and be reflective on leadership strategy is an incredible opportunity. A few things that stuck out to me are 1) you need clarity before you can influence others – clarity on who you are, what is your truth, how you want to show up as your authentic self; 2) use stories to captivate attention and humanize the data – people are much more receptive to storytelling; 3) people are looking to be influenced, they’re looking for a playbook on what to do – reality is there is no playbook, everyone makes their own along the way once they have clarity on their vision for a better future.”
– Josie Plamondon, Vice President, Acquisitions & Business Development, Davidson Hospitality Group
“The AHLA Forward conference was well organized with a dedicated focus toward the advancement of women in leadership. The sessions were engaging and applicable, providing feedback on upcoming & current industry trends, women’s health & mental wellness, and women lead leadership conversations. The mix of perspectives from the key note speakers, provided both variety & common trends across industry leadership roles. Overall, it was an engaging, inspirational, and informative event.”
– Whitney Rodriguez, Director of Rooms, Baker’s Cay Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton
“AHLA Forward 2026 reinforced that luxury today is defined by how we make people feel, not just what we provide and delivering that consistently comes down to intentional leadership and strong culture. It also highlighted that progress in our industry, especially for women, requires deliberate sponsorship and creating real opportunities for others to grow.”
– Christine Menzel, General Manager, The Camby, Autograph Collection
“Attending AHLA ForWard this year reminded me that the most powerful thing a room can hold is an honest story. A speaker stood on stage and spoke about her grandmother, a woman who mopped cafeteria floors, and nearly a thousand women went completely quiet. In that silence I understood exactly why I was there. We all came from somewhere. We all carry someone. And this industry, at its best, makes room for all of it.
“I left with a clearer sense of why I do this work and who I am doing it for. That is not something every conference can give you. Thank you to Davidson Hospitality Group and Barbara Readey for creating the space to grow in rooms like this one.”
– Marina Baronas, Director of Food and Beverage, The Don CeSar
“Grateful to work for a company that invests in developing female leaders. The Forward Conference was a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about title – it’s about influence and impact. Influence is built through trust, communication, and how we consistently show up for others every single day.”
– Rosie Gonzalez, Director of Human Resources, The Don CeSar and Beach House Suites by The Don CeSar
“This year, I was delighted to bring three other female Executive Leaders from The Don Cesar. Together, we learned about Influence. We listened to fabulous speakers, networked with industry colleagues, and deepened our relationships with other Davidson leaders. Such a privilege to have our CEO, Thom Geshay, spend quality time with our group. Going forward, I will intentionally be comfortable in my own shoes, be authentic, and to remember “no” is full sentence!”
– Barbara Readey, General Manager, The Don CeSar
“It was such an inspiring few days. It was my first year attending and I can see why the conference has grown over the years. Feeling empowered from all the speakers’ speeches about “Influence” and bring it back to my personal career that I have an important role at the hotel to influence and motivate my team and bring forward my female leaders along the way. The importance of actively mentoring young leaders and championing women’s advancement in the industry just like how I was mentored and given the opportunity to grow in this industry.”
– Susan Efendi-Sullivan, General Manager, Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge
“ForWard 26 provided a powerful opportunity to reflect on what continues to drive me most: building culture, developing strong teams, and helping people succeed together. A standout takeaway was realizing how connected we all are through shared challenges, growth, and purpose, regardless of our different paths. I left energized and reminded that meaningful leadership requires both strategy and heart. I was also grateful for the chance to connect with so many inspiring women leaders whose stories and presence made the experience even more impactful.”
– Ariannabell Maldonado, Area Human Resources Director, Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
“This year really centered on influence, how we show up in both our professional and personal lives, and the impact that carries across teams, culture, and the industry. The stories were honest, grounded, and a good reminder that leadership is felt in the small, everyday moments. As a GM, it pushed me to think about how I show up for my team, not just in decisions, but in mindset. Staying steady, being clear, and creating space for others to grow. Influence isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about how you respond, especially when things don’t go as planned. One takeaway that stayed with me came from Bobbi Brown: “So what, now what.” So what: accept what happened, no overthinking. Now what: decide the next move and keep going. Simple, but strong. Reset, move forward, and lead with intention.”
– Joyce Yun, General Manager, Hotel Zephyr
“It was truly an honor to be selected to attend this year’s ForWard Conference. The experience provided a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow property leaders, while also putting faces to the corporate partners who support us in our day-to-day work. The conference was both inspiring and energizing, with breakout sessions that were not only engaging but deeply empowering. I left with a range of meaningful, actionable takeaways that I am excited to implement.
Centered on the theme of influence, the conference highlighted the importance of how we show up for those around us, particularly the impact of uplifting and empowering women. It emphasized creating opportunities, both big and small, to make a lasting difference. I returned home feeling recharged and motivated to show up more authentically, not only in my professional role but in my personal life as well.
Being chosen to attend this conference reinforced my belief that I have found a true home at Davidson. Our values are deeply aligned, and the organization’s commitment to investing in its people, by offering opportunities like this and ensuring every voice has a seat at the table, has profoundly shaped me. It has strengthened me as a team member, a partner, and an individual in all aspects of life.”
– Katelyn Kucera, Human Resources Manager, Hyatt Regency Boston/Cambridge
“During the lunch break of day one I sent a quick email to my GM thanking him for allowing me to attend ForWard. After only 5 hours, I already knew this was one of the most motivating and inspiring conferences I have ever attended! There were so many amazing speakers and many pearls of wisdom I look to share with my team. One of my many takeaways was from Bobbi Brown regarding successful leadership; be your authentic self, communicate (actually talk to people), and celebrate successes & appreciate hard work. I also loved her mantra “So what, now what” and not letting life’s challenges slow you down. And of course, spending time getting to know many of the powerful, influential, inspirational, & caring women of the Davidson family!”
– Stacey Miller, Regional Director of Human Resources, Hyatt Regency Cincinnati
“The ForWard Conference in Atlanta was an energizing and inspiring experience, bringing together passionate, creative female presenters who shared powerful insights and perspectives. From engaging breakout sessions to immersive, interactive experiences, the conference offered attendees meaningful opportunities to connect, learn, and be inspired. It was a wonderful event!”
– Cara Mia Gatti, Director of Marketing, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort
“The ForWard Conference was a great experience, and it was especially meaningful to finally meet so many members of the team in person. My biggest takeaways were the importance of being authentic in how we lead, being truthful in our communication, and staying grounded in appreciation for the people around us. It was also a great reminder to celebrate the wins along the way, both big and small.”
– Jamie Botkin, Director of Catering and Conference Services, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort
“Attending the AHLA ForWard this year left me inspired and energized about the future we’re building for women to grow and lead in their careers. Bringing back all of the content to our property WILD team, the conversations reinforced how powerful it is when we use our influence to lift each other up. Dagmar Bogg’s message especially resonated with me, her perspective on being a mom while still building a meaningful career was both real and empowering, as a new mom.”
– Genevieve Kelley, Director of Finance, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort
“It was my second time attending the conference and it does not disappoint. This is beyond leadership; the conversation centers on how to balance our personal life with our roles (aka getting rid of the guilt). Hearing insights from experts and other women in high leadership positions is very valuable and applicable to my day to day. Definitely, one of the best conferences I’ve been to. I am grateful Davidson provided us with the opportunity to participate and connect with many others WILD ladies!”
– Andrea C Martin, Director of Revenue Management, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort
“This year’s AHLA Forward conference was a powerful reminder of the impact we have through influence. From Carla Ondrasik’s session on replacing “try” with action to Dr. Romie Mushtaq’s insights on protecting our brains—and our teams—it was an inspiring recharge. I’m grateful for another year of learning, excited to share what I’ve brought back and already excited for what’s next.”
– Sarah Jones, Complex Director of People & Culture, The Mills House, Curio Collection by Hilton
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