CAFÉ is excited to have such a great line-up of keynote speakers for our 2026 conferences.

Deans and Directors Retreat, Tuesday, June 23

“Innovating Through Scenario Plannings” presented by Chef Mark Graham, Global Director of Innovation for Windoria Foods

Chef Graham is Global Director of Innovation at Windoria Foods, bringing decades of experience across restaurants, media, education, and global food companies. His career includes senior culinary leadership roles at Starbucks, Kellogg’s, New Seasons Market, and Basic American Foods. He is a founding member of the Chefs’ Manifesto supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Industry Outreach Day, Wednesday, June 24

“Driving Growth Through Acquisition, Diversification, and Tech” presented by Dean Martinus, President of Restaurant Associates Catering Division

As President of Restaurant Associates’ Catering Division, Dean oversees CxRA in New York City, Mazzone Hospitality in Albany, Max Ultimate in Boston, and Occasions Caterers in Washington, D.C. A graduate of Paul Smith’s College, he began his career with Restaurant Associates and went on to lead major national events including the Ryder Cup, the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, and the US Open Tennis Tournament. He later served as President of Great Performances—quadrupling the business—before rejoining Restaurant Associates in 2019.

Educational Best Practices Day, Thursday, June 25

“The AI Sous Chef: Integrating Generative AI to Develop Active Learning Strategies” presented by David Uminski, CHE, St. Philips College

David Uminski is a Hotel Management faculty member at St. Philip’s College in San Antonio, Texas where he has taught since 2015 and holds a Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) credential. He has advanced degrees in hospitality and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership at Grand Canyon University. His research focuses on mentorship and succession planning in vocational and workforce-focused higher education, and his personal interests include outdoor recreation, music, and visiting the highest elevation point in all 50 U.S. states.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone in June in Chicago!