2026 ISPA CONFERENCE RECAP
POWER SESSION
THE 2026 ISPA CONFERENCE OPENED its Day One Power Session with energy, creativity and a nod to the natural world that inspires the spa industry. Sponsored by Eminence Organic Skin Care, the session began with a video message highlighting the importance of protecting ocean ecosystems. Setting a playful tone, Eminence representatives welcomed attendees in full“ Under the Sea” attire, creating an immersive start to the morning.
ISPA Chair Kenneth Ryan then took the stage with a warm and personal welcome.“ Dive right in,” he encouraged attendees, reminding them,“ You are the heart of this organization.” Ryan reflected on his own 27-year journey in the spa industry— from folding towels to serving as ISPA Chair— sharing how his first Conference in 2000 took place in the very same venue. Acknowledging challenges ranging from 9 / 11 to the Covid-19 pandemic and career shifts along the way, he underscored a unifying truth:“ No path is linear— not yours, not mine and not ISPA’ s.” His message reinforced the industry’ s resilience and evolution, adding,“ Spa is where wellness begins.”
Revealing the Big Five ISPA research partner Colin McIlheney followed with“ Big Five” insights from the 2026 ISPA U. S. Spa Industry Study, offering both a snapshot of the present and a look ahead.( See story, page 54). McIlheney challenged attendees to build on this momentum with a goal of eight percent growth over the next two years, pushing the industry toward a $ 30 billion benchmark.
Honoring Leaders The session also celebrated leadership and service within the ISPA community. Kate Mearns was honored as the 2026 ISPA Dedicated Contributor, while Kelleye Martin, immediate past ISPA Chair, was introduced as the new chair of the ISPA Research Foundation. The Foundation’ s updated name reflects a renewed focus on delivering actionable insights, with members encouraged to explore its impact through the“ Foundation Focus” column in Pulse.
With the stage set and the industry’ s trajectory in focus, Martin introduced keynote speaker Diana Kander, whose message would challenge attendees to rethink how they approach growth and innovation. n
DAY ONE POWER SESSION SPONSOR
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