The Power of Connection: Women Leaders Gather in Las Vegas

2 Min Read

For Marilyn Freundlich, connection is the foundation of longevity and a thriving career.

"I have long believed that meaningful progress in the food, beverage, and hospitality industries begins with connection to one another, to new ideas, and to the communities we serve," said Freundlich, International President of Les Dames d'Escoffier International (LDEI).

That belief is at the heart of LDEI's 2026 Annual Conference, taking place April 14–16 at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.

Each year, LDEI’s conference brings together female leaders from around the world who are shaping the future of the culinary and hospitality fields. This year's theme, "The Power of Connection," reflects the significance of strengthening relationships, sharing knowledge across disciplines, and inspiring one another to lead with purpose.

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"This year's programming blends inspiration, practical learning, and meaningful networking that will elevate our members' impact in their respective fields and also the status of women in the industry overall," Freundlich said.

The conference will open with a keynote by Elizabeth Blau, founder and CEO of Blau & Associates, a visionary who helped transform Las Vegas into a global culinary destination.

Sessions throughout the event are designed to deliver both strategic insight and practical tools, covering topics that include:

  • Beyond Social: From Confident Creation to Integrated Marketing: learn to create, share, and shine with the tools, strategy, and confidence you need to make your brand the main attraction (Open to Non Dames)

  • Strategic Planning: The Winning Hand — insights into effective chapter strategy and growth.

  • Beyond the Press Release: Modern Media Strategies — a practical panel on media relations and storytelling in the digital age.

  • Local Bites: The Real History Behind the Food in Nevada – a session to understand the food ways of early humans and link them to modern-day indigenous diets and native plants in Las Vegas

  • AI: How to Use It (and Enjoy Using It!) — a session demystifying artificial intelligence for personal and professional benefit.

  • The Aesthetics of Wine and Music: Experience how music transports your mind and perception of taste in this interactive journey of taste and sound

LDEI's membership spans every corner of the industry; chefs, restaurateurs, beverage experts, educators, writers, entrepreneurs, and executives. Freundlich sees the exchange of knowledge among them as one of the organization's greatest strengths.

Roundtable discussions, networking receptions, and special recognition events will also celebrate outstanding leaders throughout the conference, including the Chapter Awards, Woman of Purpose Award, and Legacy Awards.

This year, LDEI is expanding access to the event. Half-day passes will allow women from the broader Las Vegas hospitality community to experience the programming, fostering new connections and laying the groundwork for a potential local Las Vegas chapter. A dedicated conference app will help attendees connect before, during, and after the event.

"My hope is that every attendee leaves Las Vegas not only energized but equipped with new ideas, stronger networks, and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to shape the future of our industry together,” said Freundlich.