ATTENDEES ARRIVED IN COLORADO SPRINGS well-prepared, thanks to a virtual orientation that provided a comprehensive overview before they even stepped off the plane. Once onsite, many spa pros took advantage of a networking meetup the night before the event officially began, kicking off the week by meeting new friends and reconnecting with industry colleagues.( The“ ISPA handshake”— a hug!— was seen in abundance.)

Following a full schedule of events on Day One, the Welcome Party set the week’ s vibe, featuring tech-forward photography services and a nod to ISPA’ s roots with the high-energy sounds of The Spazmatics— a perfect, nostaligic way to“ Party Like It’ s 1991.”

With three host hotels and the convenience of ongoing shuttle service to the convention center, attendees had easy access to everything the Conference had to offer. And while ISPA can’ t take credit for the weather, attendees certainly lucked out— each day brought sunshine and mild temperatures, making it easy to enjoy The Broadmoor’ s fantastic facilities and stunning surroundings.

IF THE EXPO IS THE HEART of the ISPA Conference, education is its brain— and this year’ s 14 Education Sessions delivered lessons in operational strategies, improved leadership and increased profitability. Responding to attendee feedback from past Conferences, 2025’ s Education Session lineup included a mix of first-time presenters, offering fresh perspectives, and member-favorite returning speakers. With 14 opportunities for actionable insights on topics ranging from business growth to team development, attendees left Colorado Springs with valuable takeaways they could implement immediately( read more on page 34).

Meanwhile, during the morning Power Sessions, keynote presentations provided daily doses of inspiration and motivation. The lineup included:

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AMY PURDY, whose powerful story of resilience gave attendees the power to see opportunity in every challenge( page 28).

WILL GUIDA� AND CH�STINA TOSI, hospitality and culinary visionaries who shared fresh perspectives on leadership and creativity( page 30).

PETER �TZ, whose musical closing keynote sent attendees home with more reasons to celebrate( page 32).

MAY 2025 n PULSE 21