RIT Hospitality Innovation Conference
Discover the latest trends and advances in the hospitality and tourism industry. This event will feature keynote speakers, panels, and industry networking opportunities. Learn more about the business, people, and technologies that are shaping the future of customer experiences.
Special Guest Announcement: We are thrilled to welcome Anthony Melchiorri, author, hotel consultant and host of Travel Channel's "Hotel Impossible," as our closing keynote speaker!
Open to: RIT students, faculty and staff, as well as community college students and industry professionals.
What's Included:
- Continental breakfast and lunch are included with registration
- All guests will receive a complimentary gift
- Limited complimentary lodging available for out-of-town students
Reserve your spot today using the registration link below.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, October 22, 2026
Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Event Location: Susan R. Holliday Center (4050), Max Lowenthal Hall - RIT Campus
Dress Code: Business Casual
Tentative Agenda:
- 9:15-9:45 a.m. | Registration & Continental Breakfast
- 9:45-10 a.m. | Welcome Remarks
- 10-11 a.m. | Opening Keynote
- Jerry Marrello - VP of Hospitality at Turning Stone Resort Casino
- 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Panel
- Greg LaDuca - VP of Industry Relations at Visit Rochester
- Caban Wheeler - Owner of Upstake Luxride
- Robert Coverdale - Founder and CEO of Khonsu
- Scott Osborn - President and Co-owner of Fox Run Vineyards
- 12-1 p.m. | Lunch
- 1-2 p.m. | Panel
- Melanie Kerr - Owner & Executive Chef at Chauncey's
- Eliza Pionessa - Owner of Eliza Jane Planning
- Scott Loretan - Global VP of Performance Management at Sodexo
- Laura Falk - Owner of Experience! The Finger Lakes
- Nico Ferrari - Co-Founder of Athesis Way
- 2-2:15 p.m. | Break
- 2:15-3:15 p.m. | Closing Keynote
- Anthony Melchiorri - Host of TV Show "Hotel Impossible"
- 3:30-5 p.m. | Networking Session
Registration Fee:
- Student: $10
- Faculty and Staff: $30
- Industry Professional: $40
*Please note: You will be prompted to log in or create an account to complete your registration.
Extended Deadline to Register: Wednesday, October 14, 2026
This conference is brought to you by the Saunders hospitality and tourism management program.
To request interpreting services, please visit myaccess.rit.edu.
Event Snapshot
When and Where
Who
Open to the Public
| Students | $10.00 |
| Faculty/Staff | $30.00 |
| Other | $40.00 |
Interpreter Requested?
No