ISPA 35TH ANNIVERSARY

Jeff Kohl reflects on ISPA’ s 35-year journey and the community that shaped an industry

AS ISPA CELEBRATES THREE AND A HALF DECADES of leading and shaping the global spa industry, the milestone is both a celebration of the association’ s achievements and of the individuals who have carried its mission forward. Among those most closely tied to ISPA’ s story is Jeff Kohl— longtime volunteer leader, past ISPA Chair and Foundation Chair and recipient of the 2018 ISPA Dedicated Contributor Award.

With more than three decades in luxury hospitality and spa operations leadership, Kohl has seen ISPA grow from its infancy to a global community. In this special conversation, he reflects on the association’ s lasting contributions, the moments that defined its evolution— and his hopes for the future of spa leadership.

From left to right: Spa leaders presented a united front at the 2001 ISPA Conference held shortly after the 9 / 11 terrorist attacks; 2006 Conference keynote speaker John Wooden was the legendary UCLA men’ s basketball coach who won a record 10 NCAA championships in a 12-year span; Jeff Kohl accepted the 2018 ISPA Distinguished Leadership Award.

Celebrating ISPA’ s legacy

Pulse: What’ s ISPA’ s greatest contribution to the spa industry? Jeff Kohl: The education and camaraderie the association has provided to its members— and to the industry at large.

Pulse: How has ISPA elevated the spa profession globally? JK: ISPA continues to engage in events on a global scale. That ensures products and services get to members around the world.

Pulse: Which ISPA initiative are you proudest of helping bring to life? JK: Years ago, we made the decision to save and invest responsibly. After numerous global challenges, that decision proved crucial. Instead of disappearing in hard times like some industry organizations, ISPA had the wherewithal to keep going.

Pulse: Any favorite ISPA Conference venues? JK: The Broadmoor! The first time was intimate because the group was smaller. Returning later was even more exciting.

Pulse: Best ISPA keynote speaker? JK: John Wooden. Few people have been more successful at their trade, and his insights on hard work and success were unforgettable.

Personal connection to ISPA

Pulse: What do you remember about your first ISPA Conference? JK: It was in Dallas in 1995. The sense of community was

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