2025 WHLA Action Day Brings Lodging Industry Leaders Together for Connection, Education, and Advocacy

On April 8, WHLA members from across the state gathered in Madison for a powerful day of connection, leadership, and advocacy during the 2025 WHLA Action Day. The day featured three signature events: the Wisconsin Women in Lodging (WWIL) Breakfast, WHLA Action Day legislative meetings, and Lodging Innsights Madison, creating an energizing experience for all who attended.

Wisconsin Women in Lodging Breakfast

The day began with a full house at the Wisconsin Women in Lodging Breakfast, proudly sponsored by Chula Vista Resort. The morning featured networking, leadership spotlights, and inspiring words from women shaping the future of Wisconsin.

Lt. Governor Sara Rodriguez delivered a standout keynote address, sharing her personal journey through public service and offering powerful insights on stepping into leadership, overcoming challenges, and supporting other women in their rise.
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WWIL Staff Lead Monica Goeke, CAE, introduced attendees to the mission and programs of WWIL, while Krissy Sigmund, Chair of the WWIL Steering Committee, announced exciting upcoming opportunities. She invited attendees to the Nine & Wine Golf & Dining Event at Chula Vista Resort on May 27–28 and encouraged participation in the group’s career development initiatives, including the Moxie and Amplify Awards and the development of a new Mentorship Program.

2025 WHLA Action Day

Immediately following the breakfast, over 60 lodging professionals gathered for WHLA Action Day, an annual event where members unite to advocate for the interests of Wisconsin’s lodging industry.

WHLA President & CEO Bill Elliott, CAE, opened the program with an overview of the key legislative issues impacting lodging businesses in Wisconsin. WHLA contract lobbyist Kathi Kilgore provided valuable guidance on navigating the Capitol and meeting effectively with legislators. The group also heard remarks from Representative Chanz Green, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Tourism, and Wisconsin Secretary of Tourism Anne Sayers, who spoke during the Advocacy Luncheon.
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That afternoon, WHLA members walked to the Wisconsin State Capitol, participating in more than 70 legislative meetings, representing 48 Assembly offices and 24 Senate offices. Members shared firsthand stories about the impact of public policy on their businesses and made a strong case for the importance of the lodging industry to Wisconsin’s economy.

Lodging Innsights Madison

The day concluded with Lodging Innsights Madison, which began with a reception at Brickstone Bar & Grill in the Embassy Suites Downtown Madison. Attendees enjoyed appetizers and networking before moving to a seated, three-course dinner in the Hamilton Ballroom.

Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway welcomed the group, followed by a dynamic "State of the Wisconsin Lodging Industry" panel discussion. Moderated by Amy Supple, Senior Vice President of The Edgewater, the panel included:

• Ellie Westman Chin, President & CEO, Destination Madison
• Andrew Flack, Chief Commercial Officer, Marcus Hotels & Resorts
• Jason Kreul, COO, First Hospitality
• Eric Lund, CEO, S&L Hospitality

Their insights gave attendees valuable insight into industry trends, challenges, and opportunities across the state and beyond.

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Venue

All events throughout the day were hosted at the Embassy Suites Madison Downtown. From early-morning networking to evening receptions and dinner, the Embassy Suites team delivered exceptional service at every step.
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General Manager Michael Luehrs and Director of Sales Krystal Stoikes expertly supported the event, whose professionalism and attention to detail ensured a smooth and welcoming experience for attendees.

​The 2025 WHLA Action Day was a shining example of the strength, advocacy, and leadership within Wisconsin’s lodging community. Thank you to all who participated—we look forward to building on this momentum together.

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