My First 90 Days (Again) as President of Skål Philadelphia

 

                                                                       Skål International Philadelphia 2026 Induction

Stepping back into the role of President of Skål International Philadelphia in 2026 has been both familiar and completely new.

Since 1954, our mission at Skål Philadelphia has been to be a Trusted Voice in the Travel & Tourism Industry for the Greater Philadelphia area and beyond.

Skål International is the world’s largest organization of travel and tourism professionals, with members spanning every sector of the industry. Skål USA connects American leaders with this global network through local chapters, events, and initiatives that drive collaboration and growth.

When I previously served in 2019 as Skal Philadelphia President and was voted Club of the Year, I gained a clear perspective on what is achievable. Now, I recognize that leading in today’s environment demands agility, focus, and collaboration.

Starting with Structure and Purpose

The first 90 days were all about laying a strong foundation. After a unique re-election process (yes, two voting cycles!), we focused on introducing our leadership team, honoring our induction traditions, and most importantly, getting aligned.

Vice President: Elizabeth Barber (supports leadership initiatives and steps in as needed). Treasurer: Devon Johnston (manages finances and budgets). Secretary: June Seminario (maintains records and communications).

We were also honored to engage our distinguished board members and past club presidents, Frank Klare and Don Gable, whose leadership and legacy continue to guide and strengthen our organization.

Through a strategic planning session, we identified four key priorities:

  • Engagement & Programming
  • Fundraising
  • Governance
  • Membership Growth

Each is simple, focused, and actionable.

Rebuilding Momentum

Skål Philadelphia has launched a strong 2026 programming strategy focused on leadership, innovation, and member engagement.

We opened the year with an induction program featuring the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association's incoming president, then hosted an AI webinar on practical workplace strategies. Our Women’s History Month program highlighted executive leadership, while upcoming events include a hospitality panel and curated culinary experiences to strengthen connections and showcase excellence.

At the same time, I have been intentional about strengthening relationships beyond Philadelphia, connecting with Skål leaders in Washington, DC, New York, New Jersey, and Baltimore.

Because growth does not happen in isolation.

What Leadership Has Reinforced for Me

These first 90 days have reaffirmed that nonprofit leadership is both deeply rewarding and inherently challenging.

Here are five lessons that continue to guide me:

  • Nonprofits are complex, and progress is not always linear.
  • Leadership is shared; you never succeed alone.
  • History matters; people connect to purpose.
  • You cannot do everything; priorities matter.
  • You cannot do it all; build strong teams.

Considerations and Looking Ahead

The 2026 hospitality outlook reflects a transition from recovery to transformation marked by moderate growth, rising costs, and increased competition. U.S. hotels are navigating modest occupancy levels, tighter margins, and higher labor expenses, prompting a stronger focus on efficiency, innovation, and technology.

At the same time, evolving traveler expectations centered on value, authenticity, and personalized experiences are creating new opportunities, while AI and sustainability continue to reshape the industry in meaningful ways.

As we close out Q1, I am encouraged and energized by the direction we are heading.

I am especially looking forward to representing our chapter at the 2026 North American Skål Congress (NASC) in Bermuda and continuing to elevate Skål Philadelphia on a broader stage.

Final Thought

The first 90 days were about progress, not perfection. One certainty: Strength comes from people.

Grateful to serve. Excited for what is ahead.

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