Pulse August 2026 | Page 4

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR ISPA CHAIR
2026 ISPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Remember What Matters

EVEN AS SUMMER BEGINS TO WIND DOWN for those of us in the northern hemisphere, its invitation remains the same: to step away from the pace of everyday life and reconnect with what matters most.
Our industry is filled with driven people. We care deeply about our teams, our businesses and the communities we serve. Yet life is precious, and time with the people we love should never be treated as something we can simply postpone.
Many of you know about my love of surfing. What you may not know is why it means so much to me. When you enter the ocean, you must be fully present. There are no cell phones, emails or earbuds— only the water, your breath and the next wave on the horizon. The ocean is humbling and regularly reminds us of its power. And when everything comes together, surfing creates a rare state of flow. For a few moments, it feels as though you are walking on water, channeling the ocean’ s energy as it carries you forward. It is peaceful and physical at the same time. I feel especially fortunate when I can share that experience with my children. On a recent trip to Costa Rica, I had the opportunity to surf with my son. The waves were memorable, but the uninterrupted time together mattered far more.
At the start of summer, our June ISPA Board of Directors meeting was filled with spirited debate, thoughtful discussion and excitement about what lies ahead for our membership. We began the day by asking each board member what they were most looking forward to this summer. As everyone shared, their faces lit up. It was a simple but meaningful reminder that we should always have something in our near future to anticipate.
As this summer draws to a close, I encourage you to step away— even if only for a weekend. Put down the phone. Disconnect fully. Spend meaningful time with those you love and hold closest. The work will still be there when you return. The opportunity to create a lasting memory may not be. Enjoy these remaining days of summer.
Blessings,
OFFICERS
Chair • Kenneth Ryan THE ESTATE
Vice Chair • Charlotte Prescott Tierra Santa Healing House at Faena Hotel
Secretary / Treasurer • Taylor Fields PCH Hotels and Resorts
ISPA Research Foundation Chair and Immediate Past ISPA Chair Kelleye Martin Trellis Spa, The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa
DIRECTORS
Christian Davies Mii amo / Enchantment Resort
Jennifer Holzworth Montage International
ISPA Research Foundation Vice Chair Ella Kent The Spa at Sea Island
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