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2026 Spring Conference
Tuesday, April 28 – Thursday, April 30, 2026
OnCenter & Marriott Downtown, Syracuse, NY ABOUT
The 2026 Conference Committee is thrilled to invite you to our newly redesigned NYSNA Annual Conference, taking place in spring in Syracuse, NY. After years of thoughtful planning and transition, this new spring format arrives at the perfect time—because our theme, “Imagine the Possibilities,” reflects exactly what we’ve spent the past year exploring. This redesign didn’t just happen. It was intentionally shaped through NYSNA’s recent journey into the Event Design Program and the launch of our first Event Design cohort. Over the past year, a select team of NYSNA leaders worked through the globally recognized #EventCanvas methodology℠, closely examining the needs, motivations, and realities of everyone we serve. Together, we reimagined not only what the Annual Conference could look like, but why it matters—and how it can create deeper outcomes for members, attendees, and partners. As our industry continues to evolve, so do we. Just think about where school nutrition was five years ago. None of us imagined curb-side meal service during a pandemic—or that universal school meals would become a reality for every child. And yet here we are, achieving things once considered impossible. That’s exactly why Event Design matters: it helps us prepare—not for the past, but for what’s possible next. What emerged from this work is a bold, human-centered redesign that begins in 2026 and will continue shaping NYSNA events in the years ahead. This new approach brings clearer purpose, stronger alignment, and a vision rooted in mission— and guided by empathy. So today, I invite you to imagine what the future of our profession could look like. Imagine the innovations we haven’t discovered yet. Imagine the challenges we’ll solve together. Imagine the possibilities…
What to Expect as an Industry Partner The NYSNA Annual Conference has been redesigned to create deeper connection, greater visibility, and more meaningful engagement for Industry Partners. In our new spring format, Industry Partners will spend the entire conference alongside Food Service Operators, participating together in General Sessions and educational programming designed to spark insight, collaboration, and shared learning. This integrated experience allows for stronger relationship-building through intentional networking moments and authentic, ongoing conversations throughout the event. REGISTRATION
*MUST PRE-REGISTER - Onsite registration is not allowed
Full registration includes:
Registration opening soon!
Cancellation Policy: There will be a $100 processing fee for each refund request for canceled registrations and/or Speed Networking Host submitted in writing on or before March 31, 2026. You may submit your cancellation request via email to: [email protected]. After this date, NYSNA will not give refunds for cancellations or for NO-SHOWS. Payments: Payment in full must be received thirty (30) days prior to the event start date. If payment is not received thirty (30) days prior to the event start date, you will be notified and your registration will be canceled.
Brand Visibility OpportunitiesIndustry Partners NYSNA members can expand their presence through strategic brand visibility opportunities woven throughout the conference experience—from high-traffic spaces and sponsored moments to interactive touchpoints that keep your brand top of mind before, during, and after the event. This human-centered redesign ensures Industry Partners are not just exhibitors—but true partners in the experience. Join us in Syracuse, NY, and Imagine the Possibilities.
2026 Event Information & Pricing
HOTEL INFORMATION Reservations: Double Rooms – Discounted Group Rate: $189/night We encourage all Industry Partners to book within the official conference hotel block. Staying at our headquarters hotels helps NYSNA meet contractual commitments, supports the overall success of the conference, and helps keep future event costs manageable for everyone. Your support truly makes a difference.
Spring Conference Schedule Tuesday, April 28, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm SLAC Committee Meeting – Invitation Only Wednesday, April 29, 2026 7:00am - 4:00pm Registration Open To ensure maximum engagement at Industry Game Night, please abstain from hosting private events or dinners between 5:00–8:00 PM. Thursday, April 30, 2026 7:00am - 4:00pm Registration Open Please note: Meals, General and Educational sessions are built into your registration. *Access must be purchased through the online registration. Brand Visibility Opportunities and Marketplace Host can be purchased during the online registration process. NYSNA membership and Full Conference registration are required for all Brand Visibility Opportunities. Cancellation Policy: There will be a $100 processing fee for each refund request for canceled registrations and/or Speed Networking Host submitted in writing on or before March 31, 2026. You may submit your cancellation request via email to: [email protected]. After this date, NYSNA will not give refunds for cancellations or for NO-SHOWS. Payments: Payment in full must be received thirty (30) days prior to the event start date. If payment is not received thirty (30) days prior to the event start date, you will be notified and your registration will be canceled. |
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