Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association

SB 1422 will strengthen enforcement of existing human trafficking prevention training requirements for hotel employees, adding an extra layer of accountability. The hospitality industry plays a key role in identifying and working to put an end to human trafficking, and we are proud to partner with lawmakers to enhance these efforts. IHLA thanks Senator Mike Halpin for his leadership and remains committed to enacting policies aimed at protecting our guests and our communities.

Yesterday, IHLA team members Kristen Curnyn, CMP, CITD, and Sarah Thaman visited Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute to speak with students about the 2025 IHLA Educational Foundation Scholarship program. Hearing firsthand how these scholarships impact students?is?truly inspiring, and we were grateful for the opportunity to share the resources available through the Educational Foundation. A big thank you to Marjorie Hyland and the Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute team for the warm welcome! We look forward to continuing these visits and connecting with students at universities across Illinois. To learn more about the IHLA scholarship program, visit?https://lnkd.in/gFp9uA4J

Celebrate your team and boost morale by rewarding your top achievers with an unforgettable night of networking, live music, and exceptional cuisine at Spring Soirée, IHLA's signature event, formerly known as the Gala. Hosted at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile on Friday, April 11, 2025 at 6:00 p.m., this is the hotel industry's premier night—you won’t want to miss it. Experience a fresh perspective on dessert, with student chefs from Kendall College at National Louis University and Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute creating innovative dessert masterpieces, you’ll truly be able to say you’ve tasted the future. And, it all benefits the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association Education Foundation - helping to foster the future generation of our hospitality industry. Secure your tickets today for a night to remember- Register by March 19. https://lnkd.in/g2GxMRMR

?? Registration Now Open for Hospitality Hires Chicago! ? Are you looking to hire top hospitality talent? Hospitality Hires Chicago (HHC) is back on Tuesday, April 15, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Palmer House Hilton, bringing together employers and pre-screened job seekers for a premier hiring event! ? ?? What is HHC? HHC connects employers with pre-screened candidates through Chicago and Cook County’s top workforce agencies, providing a strategic approach to hiring and helping job seekers find their next opportunity in the industry. ? ?? Cost & Registration The cost to reserve a table is $200, and registration is a two-step process: Complete Registration and Payment: https://lnkd.in/gEDTQCvX Submit Employer Questionnaire: https://lnkd.in/g8xZkWfH ?? Deadline: April 7 – Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with top talent! Secure your spot today and take the next step in building your team. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out!

The compliance deadline for REAL ID is now less than 90 days away, marking the final phase of a process decades in the making. Beginning May 7, travelers must have a REAL ID, passport, or another TSA-approved form of identification to board domestic flights. Now’s the time to check your ID and ensure you’re travel-ready—don’t get caught unprepared. https://lnkd.in/gvFr8v4P

Mix, mingle, and make connections at Cocktails and Conversations! This exclusive reception on March 18, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., brings together Hospitality Young Professionals, IHLA Board of Directors, and statewide General Managers at the Residence Inn Downtown/Loop. From swapping stories to sparking new ideas, this is your opportunity to connect with industry leaders in a lively, casual atmosphere. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation. This event will fill up quickly reserve your spot today! https://lnkd.in/gPzCjZpK

Illinois is thrilled to welcome travelers this year with exciting upgrades across the state, including several new hotel openings. Read more about these developments and their impact on the hospitality industry below. https://lnkd.in/gUnwBPKC

Happy #PresidentsDay! Did you know? From 1927 to 2008, every U.S. President stayed at the iconic Hilton Chicago, also known as the "Midwest White House", while in office! ???? But that’s not the only Illinois #hotel with a presidential past! Other IHLA member #hotels that have hosted U.S. Presidents include: ?? The Blackstone, Autograph Collection (Chicago) – known as the “Hotel of Presidents” ?? The Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette (Peoria) – a historic stop for Harry Truman in Central Illinois ?? DeSoto House Hotel (Galena) – once home to President Ulysses S. Grant Visitors to our state's capital can even stay at the President Abraham Lincoln Springfield - a Doubletree by Hilton. Illinois hotels have long played a role in American history, offering world-class hospitality to leaders from past to present. Today, we celebrate both our nation’s Presidents and the hotels that have welcomed them over the years!

The IHLA team had the privilege of connecting with students at?Kendall College?today talking about the 2025 Education?Foundation Scholarship program. It was a great opportunity to highlight how this program supports the next generation of hospitality professionals and the opportunities available to students. We look forward to more engagement events at other Illinois schools. To learn more about the Educational Foundation visit https://lnkd.in/gP8n-4RT

Mix, mingle, and make connections at Cocktails and Conversations! This exclusive reception on March 18, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., brings together Hospitality Young Professionals, IHLA Board of Directors, and statewide General Managers at the Residence Inn Downtown/Loop. From swapping stories to sparking new ideas, this is your opportunity to connect with industry leaders in a lively, casual atmosphere. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation. This event will fill up quickly reserve your spot today! https://lnkd.in/gPzCjZpK