As we share the 2024 LDEI Annual Report, it’s clear that we are continuing to move in the right direction with increased membership and compelling programing. While 2024 did not provide a significantly positive financial bottom line, it did show meaningful progress and offered important insights that are helping us to shape a stronger path forward.
In 2024, the food, beverage, and hospitality industries showed encouraging signs of recovery, with momentum returning in innovation, growth, and consumer confidence. The LDEI members continue to be part of that resurgence—leading with resilience and creativity in every corner of their industries.
We are also seeing growth within our own organization. Two chapters have just adopted new names to better reflect their evolving identities: Phoenix is now the Arizona Chapter, and Tuscan Italian has become the Italy Chapter. These updates reflect not just geographic shifts but a broader vision for connection and inclusivity.
We’ve embraced some valuable insights from 2024 and used them to guide meaningful changes for 2025 and beyond. One key area of focus has been the Annual Conference. While our Conferences are always rich in connection, learning, and inspiration, they’ve continued to face financial challenges—even with the incredible efforts of the Arizona Chapter, for example, which delivered a thoughtful and memorable event this past year.
Rather than view this as a setback, the LDEI Board has seen this as an opportunity to rethink the Conference model. Based on member feedback and the Annual Conference survey, we’ve restructured the 2026 Las Vegas Conference to better reflect what our members are asking for. We’re moving the event to April 14–16, a time of year that we believe will increase accessibility and participation. And we’re shifting the planning responsibilities to a dedicated committee of experienced members—allowing for continuity, creativity, and stronger year-over-year execution.
We are also proud to share that our professional partners, Proof PR and Powered by Professionals (PBP), are continuing to work closely with the LDEI Board. With their support, we are continuing to build a stronger and more visible brand, looking at new sponsor opportunities, and providing a more strategic business-focused approach while easing some of the operational pressure of the LDEI board.
2024 has reminded us of both our strengths and opportunities for growth. We celebrate the dedication of our members, the quality of our programs, and the momentum we’re building. And we remain committed to listening, adapting, and continuing to build a thriving, inclusive organization for all.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Jaeger
LDEI President