Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association Events Newswire

WHLA Action Day Preview 1/7/2026 12:00 Noon - 1/7/2026 12:45 PM

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 20:07:08 GMT

With WHLA Action Day taking place on January 21 in Madison, we’re hosting a special preview webinar to help attendees feel fully prepared, confident, and ready to make the most of this important advocacy event.

During this live session, WHLA staff and seasoned Action Day participants will walk through what to expect, share helpful insights, and answer your questions — ensuring you’re ready to represent Wisconsin’s lodging industry at the State Capitol.

What You’ll Learn

Event schedule and format
A guided overview of the January 21 agenda, including the Wisconsin Women in Lodging Breakfast, daytime advocacy programming, Capitol appointments, and the Lodging Innsights Reception & Dinner.

Key advocacy issues for 2026
WHLA staff will provide a high-level briefing on the policy topics and industry priorities you’ll be discussing with legislators.

Tips for successful Capitol meetings
Hear from past Action Day attendees about what to expect during your pre-scheduled meetings, how to feel confident in the conversation, and ways to build relationships with legislators and their staff.

Q&A with panelists
Bring your questions — our panelists are ready to share what they wish they’d known and what has helped them be successful advocates.

Speakers + Panelist

Bill Elliott, CAE
Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association

Krissy Sigmund
Chula Vista Resort

Dana Johnson
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel

Andy Myer
S&L Hospitality

Aaron Wolf
Comfort Suites Green Bay

Scholarship Selection Task Force Meeting 1/14/2026 10:30 AM - 1/14/2026 11:30 AM

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 22:23:37 GMT

Scholarship Selection Task Force
The WHLA Scholarship Selection Task Force (TF) is responsible for reviewing, evaluating, and selecting recipients for the 2026 WHLA Educational Scholarships. The TF ensures applicants meet eligibility requirements, reviews applications, and recommends recipients to the WHLA Executive Committee (EC) for final approval.

Conference Committee Meeting 1/15/2026 10:30 AM - 1/15/2026 11:30 AM

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:26:58 GMT

Conference Committee

Committee members plan the annual Wisconsin Lodging Conference and Trade Show.

This committee also monitors WHLA’s educational offerings and makes recommendations on scholarships, partnerships with hospitality programs, student support, and more.

View all WHLA Volunteer Opportunities

2026 WHLA Action Day 1/21/2026 7:30 AM - 1/21/2026 9:00 PM

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 18:37:13 GMT

This year, WHLA Action Day is bigger and better than ever, featuring three incredible events designed to amplify your impact, grow your network, and strengthen Wisconsin’s lodging industry. Join us for one, two, or all three events—it’s entirely up to you!

Wisconsin Women in Lodging Breakfast

Check into advocacy and kickstart the day with an empowering breakfast with WHLA's fastest-growing group. Women and allies are encouraged to attend to connect, learn, and fuel their passion for advocacy.

2026 WHLA Action Day

Make your voice heard! This signature event includes expert-led education sessions, lunch, and scheduled meetings with state legislators and their staff, providing you with a direct platform to advocate for Wisconsin’s lodging industry.

Lodging Innsights Reception & Dinner

Cap off the day with an exclusive networking reception and dinner. Enjoy programming that features thought-provoking discussions and invaluable connections with fellow hospitality professionals.

2026 WHLA Action Day Schedule

8:00 am - 10:00 am | Wisconsin Women in Lodging Breakfast
Capitol Room

8:00 am | Networking + Breakfast

8:45 am | Speakers: Senator Mary Felzkowski and Senator Dianne H. Hesselbein

Two strong voices in the Wisconsin State Senate share their experiences and insights on leadership and advocacy.

9:30 am | Wisconsin Women in Lodging Update

10:00 am - 4:00 pm | WHLA Action Day
Capitol Room

10:00 am | Check-In & Networking

10:30 am | Action Day Program + Advocacy Lunch

• Issues Overview: Bill Elliott, WHLA President & CEO

• Information & Tips for Meeting with Legislators: Kathi Kilgore, WHLA contract lobbyist

• Rep. Robin Vos, Speaker of the Wisconsin State Assembly

• Rep. Greta Neubauer, Minority Leader of the Wisconsin State Assembly

12:30 pm | Walk to the Capitol

1:00 pm - 4:00 pm | Scheduled Meetings with Legislators
Wisconsin State Capitol

3:00 pm - 4:30 pm | Post Meeting Meet-Up
The Post at the Best Western Premier Park

4:30 pm - 9:00 pm | Lodging Innsights Reception & Dinner
Top of the Park

4:30 pm | Innsights Reception

6:00 pm | Networking Dinner

7:15 PM | Fireside Chat: Rosanna Maietta & Stephen Beaumont
Hear from Rosanna Maietta, President of AHLA, and Stephen Beaumont, President – Hospitality for Kohler Co. as they discuss key industry trends, advocacy priorities, and what hotel leaders should watch in the year ahead.

Registration Options

Event registration is open now until January 9! Advanced registration is required to ensure that WHLA can pre-schedule your legislative appointments.

Team Registration Promotion

Maximize your organization's voice by registering multiple attendees for WHLA Action Day. Don't miss this chance to advocate together and amplify your impact!

• First Registration: Register your first participant at the standard rate.

• Discount Code: Receive a $10 promo code in your confirmation email.

• Additional Savings: Use the promo code to save on registration for each additional team member.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Support the lodging industry's advocacy day by becoming a sponsor! Attendee passes are included with sponsorships.

Hotel Accommodations

Rooms are still available for attendees at the Best Western Premier Park Hotel at a discounted rate of $119 per night plus taxes and fees (5.5% state tax and 10% city tax if applicable). The room block closes on January 5.

WHLA Room Block

Important Registration Information

This event consists of three separate components (WWIL Breakfast, WHLA Action Day, and Lodging Innsights Madison), and we encourage you to participate in all three. When registering, please select each event you plan to attend to ensure your spot.

Rates increase on Dec 11, registration closes on Jan 9.