expenses below forecast. The board also received its annual investment and market review from ISPA’ s investment advisor, who recommended no immediate changes to the current investment strategy or policy— reinforcing a disciplined, long-term approach to financial stewardship.
Conference and Expo strategy: Growth with intention The board reviewed progress on the 2026 ISPA Conference, noting strong early registration trends and a healthy mix of attendees, including first-time participants and corporate partners. Discussions centered on maintaining Conference relevance, engagement and long-term value for members.
Looking ahead, the board also discussed potential keynote speakers for future ISPA Conferences, emphasizing the importance of dynamic presenters with bold ideas that inspire, challenge and energize the spa community.
The board also approved 2027 ISPA Expo booth rates, with adjustments aligned to CPI and industry benchmarks. Importantly, pricing was intentionally structured to remain accessible for emerging brands, supporting innovation and long-term industry growth.
Volunteer leadership and industry insight Updates from ISPA’ s volunteer groups reflected high engagement and robust discussion around key operational issues facing the industry, including pricing strategy, staffing models, technology adoption( including
AI) and evolving member value. The board discussed opportunities to refine volunteer group structure to maintain effectiveness and broaden participation while ensuring responsible use of staff resources.
Research Foundation progress and data-driven insight The board received updates on the ISPA U. S. Spa Industry Study, Research Foundation initiatives and auction performance— all tracking positively. Emphasis was placed on timely data delivery to support Conference programming and ongoing member education, reinforcing ISPA’ s role as a trusted source of industry intelligence.
During the ISPA Research Foundation Board meeting, directors recognized outgoing chair Todd Shaw for his years of dedicated service and leadership. The board also voted ISPA’ s immediate past chair, Kelleye Martin, into the Foundation leadership role, ensuring continuity and strong governance for the organization’ s research mission. Ella Kent will remain vice chair.
Every day Is a fiesta During a meeting break, board members enjoyed a lively surprise arranged by Kelleye Martin and The Houstonian team, featuring a local mariachi band. The moment provided a welcome opportunity for laughter, music and connection— an energizing reminder that community and culture are at the heart of ISPA’ s leadership. n
Looking ahead, the board also discussed potential keynote speakers for future ISPA Conferences, emphasizing the importance of dynamic presenters with bold ideas that inspire, challenge and energize the spa community.
PAST ISPA AND FOUNDATION CHAIRS WHO ARE CURRENT MEMBERS:
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Gayle Brady Brady Spa Consulting |
Jeff Kohl Spa & Club Ideations |
Jim Root We Care Spa |
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ISPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Past Chairs Council
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Patrick Huey Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Thad Hyland
Ella Kent The Spa at Sea Island
Jean Kolb
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Kelleye Martin Trellis Spa, The Houstonian Hotel, Club and Spa
Kate Mearns 5 Spa Consulting LLC
Garrett Mersberger
Frank Pitsikalis Agilysys
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Jane Segerberg Segerberg Spa Consulting, LLC
Todd Shaw Fountain Life
Michael Tompkins
Deborah Waldvogel Velvet Spa at Ambiente Sedona
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PULSE n MARCH / APRIL 2026 89