Call for Speakers
Proposals are now being accepted for concurrent session speakers for the Spirit of Hospitality Summit, taking place October 22–23, 2025, at Purdue University.
The Business of People: Creating Transformative Experiences Through Service and Strategy
The White Lodging–J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Purdue University invites dynamic professionals, thought leaders, and innovators to submit proposals to speak at the 4th Annual Spirit of Hospitality Summit.
This immersive two-day event brings together industry professionals, alumni, faculty, and students from across our four signature disciplines:
- Hospitality and Tourism Management
- Selling and Sales Management
- Retail Management
- Financial Counseling and Planning
Our 2025 theme – The Business of People: Creating Transformative Experiences Through Service and Strategy – reflects the evolving nature of customer experience, leadership, and innovation across service-driven industries. We are looking for forward-thinking voices to share insights, best practices, and strategies that highlight the intersection of human connection and business value.
Breakout Session Format
- Length: 45 minutes (including Q&A)
- Audience: Industry professionals, students, and faculty
- Level: Designed to provide industry-level insight and thought leadership
Suggested Subthemes
To help guide your proposal, consider aligning with one of these relevant subthemes:
- People-First Leadership in a Data-Driven World
- Elevating Customer Experience Through Technology & Human Touch
- Strategic Sales and Relationship Building
- Financial Wellness as a Service Offering
- Sustainable Service Models for the Future
- Retail Reinvented: From Transaction to Experience
- Talent Development and Culture in a Changing Workforce
- Inclusive Service Design and Delivery
- The Role of Empathy in Business Strategy
Speaker Proposal Submission
Interested speakers should submit the following materials for consideration:
- Full Name
- Company and Job Title
- Email Address & Phone Number
- Social media profile information
- Professional Bio (150–200 words)
- High-resolution Headshot Photo
- Session Title
- Presentation Abstract (up to 400 words) for review by the planning committee
- Description (up to 150 words) for inclusion in event agenda and website
Please Note
The Spirit of Hospitality Summit is a self-funded event. Travel stipends are not available, and speakers are responsible for their own travel and accommodations. Upon acceptance, speakers will receive a discount code for a reduced event registration fee and details for our hotel room block near campus.
Submit Proposals By:
July 25, 2025
Notifications of acceptance will be sent by August 1, 2025.
Be a part of shaping the next generation of “Experience Engineers” by sharing your expertise, inspiring future leaders, and contributing to the spirit of service and innovation that defines our community.
Contact Abby Lillpop, Special Projects and Communications Manager, at alillpop@purdue.edu or 765.496.3596 with any questions.