Meet the Speakers
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Pamela Armstrong
Director of Talent Acquisition, Aparium Hotel Group With a penchant for creating unforgettable experiences and a dedication to exceptional service, Pamela began her career in the vibrant world of hospitality at the Walt Disney World Resort. From the bustling kitchens to the enchanting guest interactions, her journey in the restaurant industry started amidst the magical ambiance of Disney. From orchestrating the magic of operations at the Walt Disney World Resort to empowering individuals in Human Resources, her career has been defined by a passion for hospitality and a dedication to fostering exceptional experiences. After spending several years working in HR and operations with a start-up consulting firm, she found herself drawn back to the vibrant world of hospitality, joining a growing boutique hotel company, Aparium Hotel Group. Drawing from her diverse background, she brings a wealth of strategic insights and operational acumen to elevate guest experiences and drive growth in this ever-evolving industry. Now, as a leader in human resources, specializing in talent acquisition, she is always looking for innovative approaches to attract, develop, and retain top-tier talent, and aims to revolutionize the way organizations approach human capital, driving success and shaping the future of hospitality. |
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Michelle Burmester
Opco President, Performance Foodservice – La Crosse Michelle’s career started when her high school history teacher pulled her out of class freshman year and asked her if she’d like to work at a bakery and coffee shop that he and his wife owned. That is where Michelle learned that food service could be a career. From there, she attended college at UW-Stout for Hotel Restaurant management. While there, Michelle worked at a supper club as a Reinhart customer. After completing college, a move to Milwaukee took place and Michelle began her career with Reinhart, in Customer Service. After about a year, she moved to sales. She then followed a move to Madison for a sales position, which ultimately brought her to the La Crosse distribution center, where she became the District Sales Manager and ultimately VP of Sales. Time was spent as President of the Omaha location! In 2019, Michelle returned to La Crosse – a time that coincided with the PFG acquisition of Reinhart – as President. Michelle loves her work and challenging TWWADI’s (The Way We’ve Always Done It’s)! Being a strong female role model for her sons – proving that women can be great wives, moms, and also have successful careers – is Michelle’s greatest achievement. And, of course, being named as Reinhart’s first female president! |
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Barkha Limbu Daily
Owner & Chef, DAILY TACO, the cheel, the baaree As a child growing up in a small neighborhood in Kathmandu, Nepal, Barkha Limbu Daily’s passion for food started to simmer when she was 6 years old. Barkha’s family would frequently gather around extravagant arrays of food and the family travelled together which opened her eyes – and taste buds – to new things. Barkha’s thirst for knowledge and new experiences led her to apply to schools in the United States. She attended Lakeland University to study Marketing and International Business and her first job was at the World Trade Center in Wisconsin. From there, Barkha worked at R&R insurance, and then went into international marketing at the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. In 2011, after finishing her graduate degree from Alverno College, she moved to Thiensville, Wisconsin. She was soon after asked to help rejuvenate the Thiensville Village Market. In July of 2014, she took courage, left her promising career, and went with her gut to start her own restaurant in Thiensville called the cheel. The decision turned out to be a good one because, as it has only been 9 years since the opening, the cheel has won over 40 awards. Barkha has also appeared on Food Network as a judge with Chef Tyler Florence in 2018 and Top Chef in 2023. With a heart full of resilience and a spirit that thrives on community, Barkha Limbu Daily embarked on her next chapter in 2018: the baaree. Meaning "garden" in Nepalese, this beer garden blossomed into more than just a venue—it became a sanctuary for live music enthusiasts and performers alike. In 2020, Chef Barkha Daily started yet another restaurant, DAILY TACO, featuring traditional western Mexican cuisine. Through it all, Barkha Limbu Daily's story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the transformative power of food. From her roots in Nepal to the heartland of America, she continues to inspire with her unwavering dedication to culinary excellence and community enrichment. |
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Nikki Fuchs de Calderon
Senior Director of Training & Development, New Perspective Senior Living Nikki Fuchs de Calderon is the Senior Director of Training & Development at New Perspective Senior Living, whose vision is to support 10,000 seniors living life on purpose by 2025. She is a bilingual, operations-focused learning leader who builds strong partnerships across departments, organizations, and geographies. Nikki combines her 30 years of restaurant experience and a Spanish teaching background to simplify development systems. She makes development systems easier to execute and more accessible to all team members, regardless of language, background, or ability. With experience as the learning leader for Buffalo Wild Wings, CSM Corporation, and New Perspective, Nikki brings the perspectives of restaurants, hotels, and senior living to the hospitality conversation. Nikki is a Lifetime Member and Co-Director of Regional Training Forums for CHART, a vibrant professional association of hospitality trainers from restaurant, foodservice and lodging companies. When not supporting New Perspective’s incredible seniors, you’ll find Nikki with her husband, Ruben, or one of her four beautiful children, Meghann, Ruben, Gael, and Albertina. |
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Donna Herbel
Chief Igniter, Blue Phoenix Learning Donna Herbel is the Chief Igniter of Blue Phoenix Learning and the COO of Savii, a company dedicated to simplifying the complex world of employer-sponsored health insurance. With over two decades of experience in leadership development, training, and organizational culture, Donna brings a wealth of knowledge to the hospitality industry. As the former Vice President of Culture and Training at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, Donna has been a driving force in shaping innovative training practices and fostering human-centered technology implementation. Her passion for igniting potential and sparking transformation has made her a sought-after executive coach, speaker, and trainer. Donna is an active member and past president of the CHART, an association committed to advancing the skills, knowledge and expertise of hospitality trainers and HR professionals. Her engaging presentations on leadership development, technology in training, and employee engagement have been featured at major industry events, including the NRA Show and CLO Symposium. With her infectious curiosity and dedication to professional growth, Donna is committed to helping individuals and organizations in the hospitality industry reach their full potential. When she's not setting the world of professional development ablaze, you might find her in the kitchen, cooking up her latest concoctions! |
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Kristine Hillmer
President & CEO, Wisconsin Restaurant Association and Wisconsin Restaurant Association Education Foundation Kristine Hillmer is the President & CEO Wisconsin Restaurant Association and Wisconsin Restaurant Association Education Foundation, representing 1,500 restaurants with more than 7,000 locations across the state. Kristine has an MBA, has held the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential for 26 years, and has more than 30 years of experience working with associations, including both trade and professional societies. Kristine currently serves as a Trustee on the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation’s Board of Trustees and the Council of State Restaurant Association Board of Directors. And was named a Milwaukee Business Journal Woman of Influence in 2022. |
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Lisa Holloway
Global Learning & Development, CKE Restaurant Holdings Inc Lisa Holloway is a dynamic HR strategist and industry leader with a proven track record of driving organizational growth through innovative people-centered solutions. With over 20 years of experience across leading brands like Jamba Juice, Bally Total Fitness, US Foods, Roundy’s, Roti, and CKE, Lisa specializes in creating robust HR frameworks that align people, process, and profitability. Recognized for her expertise in lean business operations, large-scale process redesign, and launching high-impact talent and change management strategies, Lisa has been instrumental in driving new store openings and system integrations in fast-growing organizations. Her leadership is deeply rooted in fostering cultures where employees feel valued and empowered, directly contributing to enhanced organizational performance.Passionate about elevating both businesses and people, Lisa’s work continues to set benchmarks for excellence in HR. |
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Lakisha Hunter "Chef K"
Owner of That Jerk Spot/Rise Above the Ordinary Chef K is well known in the city of Chicago as the owner of That Jerk Spot LLC. That Jerk Spot is a catering and food trucking culinary business. Throughout the city of Chicago, the food, personality, and customer service are highly recommended. Chef K is the renowned author of “Finding The I In WE” and her life story “Rise Above The Ordinary,” as covered on WBBM radio and featured in Newsweek, as seen on Chicago's very own WGN and ABC News. She is the 2023 Restaurants ADVANCE Leadership My Journey Award winner and Chef K was the featured Chef of NRAEF 2022 IMPACT REPORT. Chef K is a NPSI judge and a HOPES mentor/trainer, using food truck internship to teach business concepts, culinary skills, and personal responsibility. Prior to business ownership in the culinary industry, Chef K has worked in the culinary industry for more than 27 years. She was a CPS ProStart culinary/hospitality teacher and a restaurant manager simultaneously. Chef K overcame her learning disabilities as a child and she now possesses a Masters of Arts in Urban Ministries. Chef K is a strong advocate for education. Among all the great success achieved by Chef K, she is committed to giving back to youth and families in communities bound by poverty and violence. Chef K passion is to inspire the next generation of Chefs and business owners in the culinary and hospitality industry. Raised in the inner city of Chicago Chef K relates to the unique experience of the youth in Chicago. From her own experience as a youth in Chicago, Chef K has created her non-profit “Rise Above The Ordinary mentorship program that will reach the heart of youth in need of mentorship and culinary training. Rise Above the Ordinary is a month-long apprenticeship program that is designed to meet the culinary and social development needed for those youth enrolled in the program. With a call to serve, and the passion to stabilize such a passion to provide culinary instruction, Chef K has become successful at mentoring and pushing youth across the Chicago land area to Rise Above the Ordinary in the culinary industry, in their community, and in their families with the desire to open food trucks across the city of Chicago to be ran by future chefs who has excel above the ordinary, prepared to reach and teach others in their communities. |
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Michelle Korsmo
President and CEO National Restaurant Association, CEO National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Michelle Korsmo is president and chief executive officer of the National Restaurant Association and chief executive officer of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation. In this role, Korsmo is responsible for delivering value to the Association’s members, the 52 state association partners, and the restaurant industry. With Korsmo’s leadership, the Association continues to pursue its vision for a thriving restaurant and foodservice community through strong operations; risk mitigation and talent development; advancing and protecting business vitality; and driving knowledge and collaboration. Founded in 1919, the National Restaurant Association is the leading business association for the restaurant industry, which comprises nearly 1 million restaurant and foodservice outlets and a workforce of 14.5 million employees. Prior to joining the Association, Korsmo was president and chief executive officer of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA), the national trade association representing the wholesale tier of the wine and spirits industry. Korsmo led the Association through the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the industry was deemed essential and its workforce had the tools it needed to adapt to shifting business channels. Korsmo focused the Association on defending the state-based regulatory structure and promoting the value of the wholesale tier. Previously, Korsmo served seven years as head of the American Land Title Association (ALTA), the national trade association for real estate settlement services and the title insurance industry. Under her leadership ALTA created an industry standard for compliance management in response to the 2008 housing crisis. Additionally, ALTA doubled both its membership and revenues, and tripled fundraising for its industry PAC during Korsmo’s tenure. Prior to ALTA, Korsmo served as executive vice president of the Americans for Prosperity Foundation. She was previously deputy chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Labor. Following her education at North Dakota State University, Korsmo started her career as a business owner in her home state of North Dakota, where she built a public advocacy and political consulting firm representing a consortium of organizations before the North Dakota Legislature. |
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Dr. Lynea LaVoy
Department Chair, Program Director, Faculty – Hospitality Management, Madison College Lynea’s experiences in the business sector—working with TDS Telecom, Great Wolf Resorts and Hilton Family of Hotels—has afforded her the versatility to be an effective leader in the focused areas of hospitality management, servant leadership, higher education, communications, and organizational effectiveness. She currently is the department chair, program director and full-time instructor for the Hospitality Management program(s) at Madison College. Lynea led the Hospitality Service Champions and Leadership academies through Madison College and through that work has taught over 300 incumbent workers in Dane County. Through her teaching, Lynea has had the privilege of speaking at many events including the Wisconsin Restaurant Association, Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association, Wisconsin Women in Lodging, FCCLA, Destination Madison and more. Lynea dedicates herself to a student-first focused teaching and advising approach and was awarded the 2018 NISOD Excellence in Teaching Award as well as the 2017 Excellence in Teaching from the National Society of Leadership and Success, Associate of the Year (2019) and Educator of the Year (2023) both through the Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association, and more. Lynea is also working with Madison College and the partnership with the Department of Corrections to bring classes she co-wrote around the entrepreneurial mindset to those learners. After completing her undergraduate work in English and Communications at the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse, she received an M.B.A. in Strategic Management and Organizational Behavior from Roosevelt University in Chicago, Illinois. In 2013 she graduated from the Educational Leadership Doctoral Program at Edgewood College and followed that up with MS in Organizational Leadership from Regis University in Denver, Colorado. Lynea continues to serve as a Doctoral Liaison for the EdD program at Edgewood College. |
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Darcy Luoma
CEO and Founder of Darcy Luoma Coaching & Consulting Darcy Luoma is not your ordinary speaker. She's a dynamic force who has graced over 500 stages, captivating audiences ranging from intimate gatherings to grand assemblies. As a Master Certified Coach (MCC) and Certified Professional Speaker™(CSP), Darcy shares insights honed from her diverse experiences. Having served as director of a U.S. Senator's office for 12 years, conducted national advance work for the White House, and worked on two presidential campaigns, Darcy witnessed firsthand the consequences of not responding thoughtfully. Motivated by these experiences, she developed the Thoughtfully Fit® model, drawing from over two decades of coaching leaders and teams. Darcy's inspiring keynotes provide strategies to enhance resilience and create winning teams, blending her expertise in leadership development with her passion for physical fitness. Her best-selling book, "Thoughtfully Fit: Your Training Plan for Life & Business Success," serves as a roadmap for peak performance—both professionally and personally. Darcy’s audiences leave inspired with actionable insights they can immediately implement, ensuring lasting impact beyond the stage. |
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Citlali Mendieta-Ramos
Owner & Catering Director of Antigua Restaurant & Catering Introducing Citlali Mendieta-Ramos, the visionary force behind the culinary delights of Antigua Latin Inspired Kitchen, Atigua Catering & Events, and Lola’s Empanadas. With a profound love for Latin cuisine deeply ingrained in her heritage, Citlali embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2006, establishing her iconic restaurant and catering business. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Latin American flavors, Citlali curates a menu that celebrates the diverse and vibrant essence of Latin cuisine. From tantalizing ceviche’s to savory empanadas and decadent Spanish flan, every dish at Antigua Latin Inspired Kitchen is a testament to Citlali's culinary artistry and dedication to excellence. Beyond the confines of her restaurant, Citlali's talent shines through her catering endeavors, where she brings the authentic flavors of Latin America to events of all sizes. Whether it's an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Citlali's meticulous attention to detail ensures that every event is a culinary masterpiece. Her passion for sharing her culture through food has earned her a devoted following and recognition from the culinary community. Citlali is a trailblazing force, dedicating herself to various leadership roles within the Wisconsin Restaurant Association and The Hispanic Collaborative. 2019 Citlali joined The Milwaukee Area Technical College Board of directors, where she represents employers with 15 or more employees, shaping the future of culinary education and industry standards. Her exemplary contributions have garnered widespread acclaim, earning her accolades such as the Milwaukee Business Journal 40 Under 40 distinction and the prestigious Citizen of the Year award from the city of West Allis & West Allis/West Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce, among many other accolades. Educationally, Citlali holds a Master of Business Administration from Alverno College and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She is also a Certified Professional in Catering and Event by the National Association of Catering & Events. |
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Matt Meuleners
Executive Partner & Lead Instructor, Focus Training Matt Meuleners has over 24 years of experience as a speaker, trainer, and Talent Development professional. He is an expert in leadership development who specializes in: program design and delivery, L&D consulting, training audits, and leader coaching. Matt holds an MBA from the University of Wisconsin: Milwaukee and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin: Madison. He taught Training & Development at Marquette University as an adjunct professor and is a Past President of the SEWI chapter of the Association of Talent Development. An Executive Partner with FOCUS Training, Matt leads the professional development market team and serves as Lead Instructor for the Accelerate and Elevate Institutes where he trains and coaches managers and high-potential talent from the nation’s top companies. |
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Tom Parks
Director of Retirement Plan Services, Annex Wealth Management Tom Parks is the Director of Retirement Plan Services at Annex Wealth Management. He has specialized in qualified retirement plan administration, education and consulting since 2001. Tom is the primary contact for the plan fiduciaries. In this capacity, Tom presents quarterly investment reviews and annual plan reviews. Tom also participates in the production of custom videos and on-site group participant education. Before Annex Wealth Management, Tom spent two years as a volunteer in Quito, Ecuador. His professional career started at the M&I Trust Company where he educated both English and Spanish-speaking plan participants on the importance of preparing for retirement. Tom graduated from St. Norbert College with a degree in philosophy and economics, and holds both the AIF® CRPS® certifications. Tom and his family are involved in a variety of philanthropic endeavors and Tom is actively engaged in civic affairs. |
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Deanne Phillips, CFP®, CDFA®, ABFP℠
Director of Client Learning & Development, Annex Wealth Management Deanne Phillips, is a certified divorce financial analyst and an accredited behavioral finance professional as well as a practicing CFP since 2001. She is Director of Client Learning and Development at Annex Wealth Management where she is a workshop, radio, and webinar content creator and runs their Women & Wealth Educational program which holds monthly financial literacy programs as well as quarterly workshops on “What Women Need to Know About Divorce”. Deanne also hosts quarterly Conversation Cafes around topics such as Imposter Syndrome, Negotiating Executive Benefits for Women and Shattering the Myth of the Glass Ceiling. A member of national speaker’s association, and a past president of FPA of WI, she has been teaching financial education for the last 27 years and specifically focuses her practice on women facing transitions such as death, divorce and disability. |
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Jenna Piché
Founder & Time Management Coach, First Light Coaching Jenna Piche is a time management expert and Full Focus Certified Pro who teaches busy professionals how to prioritize high-leverage work, get more done, and intentionally enhance their careers without sacrificing their health or their most important relationships. Her audiences enjoy the practical tips she shares on controlling our calendars, leveraging systems, creating healthy habits, and automating success. When she's not helping go-getters reclaim their time, she enjoys a game of Euchre on the deck with a full-bodied dry red and hiking with her husband, two sons, and chocolate lab in New Glarus. |
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Krissy Kaminski Sigmund
Vice President, Chula Vista Resort Born and Raised in Wisconsin Dells, Krissy is no stranger to the hospitality business. Currently the Vice President at Chula Vista Resorts, responsible for Sales, Marketing and Revenue Generation for the +$40M business, a member of the 4th generation of the 70-year family business, her skills grew starting in Food and Beverage operations management as young as 13-years-old. Waterpark operations and recreation followed that growth, along with a transition in to Corporate/Meeting Sales with a special focus on Sports and Events with 1,000+ attendees. Krissy then diversified her skill set in the company’s Limited Service Hotels division, and then transitioned to executive leadership with focus on Revenue Management, Sales, and Digital Marketing practices. An active member in the community, currently serving on Board of Directors at the Wisconsin Dells Visitor Bureau, the Board of Directors at the Wisconsin Hotel and Lodging Association and WHLA's Executive Committee as their Advocacy Delegate, Krissy also is the Chair of the Wisconsin Women In Lodging and sits on Legislative, Education, Student and Membership Committees. Past Board Seats also include the Adams County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Krissy also is a graduate of Wyndham Hotel Group Hospitality Management from their School of Hospitality (SoHO) and several certifications and accreditations with HSMAI; all in which assist her in her daily management of over 5 separate businesses supporting revenues of over $50M, all with deep roots in Hospitality, Sales and Marketing, E-Commerce and Revenue Growth. An avid dog lover, boy-mom and wine enthusiast, Krissy enjoys spending time with her young son and family on the pontoon, traveling with her husband, Brad, and exploring new cuisines – also considers herself a novice Euchre player! |
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Christine A. Specht
Chief Executive Officer, Cousins Subs Christine Specht grew up with Cousins Subs — the sub sandwich chain her dad, Bill Specht, founded with his cousin two years before she was born. In 2008, she became the President and Chief Operating Officer of Cousins Subs and in 2015 assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer following her father's retirement. In this role, she successfully brought new life to a legacy brand by leading a series of system changes, including a largescale rebranding strategy, implementation of grills in all restaurants, and inclusion of the brand’s Midwest heritage with signature local products throughout its menu. Under Specht’s leadership she strengthened the brand’s unit-level economics, created a strong core of franchise partners, and positioned Cousins Subs for growth. In January 2019, Specht transitioned from her two-part role to narrow in on her responsibilities as CEO. In this leadership role she remains the visionary for the brand, focusing on building a strong culture throughout Cousins Subs system while continuing to lead growth and strategy. Specht also leads the brand in helping to adapt to the ever-changing needs of guests through advancements in technology and innovation. Specht earned a bachelor's degree in criminology and law studies from Marquette University. While she worked toward her master's degree in public administration from American University in Washington, D.C., she spent time in the human resources departments of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Academy of Public Administration in Washington. Specht serves as the Chair of Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor’s Foundation Board, a director of The Management Association (MRA), a director of the First Federal Bank of Wisconsin (FFBW), a director on the FFBW Community Foundation, a director of Serigraph, Inc. and is the President of Cousins Subs Make It Better Foundation board. Specht has received the Cum Deo award from the Lutheran High School Association in 2017 in honor of her Christian service and accomplishments in business. In 2021, Specht received the CHART(Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers) Commitment to People Award and in 2022, was honored as one of Wisconsin’s Most Influential Business Leaders by BizTimes. |
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