Great people. Great careers. And the drive to look beyond what’s “good enough” to make everything “better than it has to be.” That is the spirit behind the IFEA Hall of Fame.

As we continue our journey of excellence and inspiration, it’s time once again to present the IFEA’s most prestigious honor. It’s time to induct the 2026 IFEA Hall of Fame Recipient.

Who will it be? Will it be your Executive Director who leads with vision and heart? A mentor who sparked your career? A colleague whose innovation changed everything? Or maybe… someone you’ve admired quietly, but whose impact speaks volumes?

The power to honor a great industry leader is in your hands. Take a moment to reflect on those who have inspired you, uplifted others, and strengthened our industry. Then, help us tell their story. Nominate a deserving leader today and celebrate the spirit, dedication, and excellence that make our industry truly extraordinary.

5:00 p.m. MDT, Wednesday, June 10, 2026

Nominations will be accepted anytime prior to June 10, 2026.

Accepting Nominations

If you would like to submit a nomination, we are happy to accept it at any time. All nomination selections and inductions into the IFEA Hall of Fame will take place at the next Annual IFEA Convention & Expo.

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Known as the associations most prestigious honor, the IFEA Hall of Fame recognizes those outstanding individuals who, through their exceptional work and achievements, have made a significant contribution to the Festivals and Events Industry and a profound difference in the communities they serve, both locally and internationally.

Nominations must represent a current or past IFEA member who has made substantial achievements and/ or contributions to the festivals and events industry. Nominees can be retired and represent any facet of our industry (i.e. vendor, supporter, senior professional, etc.).
(Current IFEA World Board of Directors, IFEA Foundation Board of Directors and IFEA Staff Members are not eligible to be nominated*).

Once nominations have been received, the IFEA Hall of Fame Committee, comprised of members of the IFEA World Board of Directors, will review all nominations and select one or more individuals to be honored in to the IFEA Hall of Fame.

The Honoree (s) will be the guest (s) of the IFEA on an all-expense* paid trip to the Annual IFEA Convention & Expo, where they will be inducted at the IFEA Awards Luncheon, in their honor.
*Includes 2 nights hotel, airfare and Convention registration.

Qualities and Characteristics
of the IFEA Hall of Fame

Induction into the IFEA Hall of Fame is a mark of distinction, reserved for those who have made exceptional contributions to the festivals and events industry. These individuals are not only recognized for their achievements but also for the qualities that have set them apart as leaders, innovators, and mentors. IFEA Hall of Fame Inductees embody many of the following key qualities and characteristics—traits that illustrate their lasting impact on the industry and the high standards they uphold.

• Visionary Leadership: Demonstrates a forward-thinking approach and has guided successful events or initiatives that have had a lasting impact on the industry.
• Commitment to Excellence: Consistently strives for high standards in event planning, management, and execution, with a commitment to quality that sets an example for others.
• Industry Innovation: Known for introducing new ideas, concepts, or technologies that have shaped the way events are planned and experienced, enhancing the industry's progress.
• Professional Integrity: Maintains a reputation for honesty, ethics, and reliability within the industry, earning respect from peers, partners, and attendees alike.
• Mentorship and Support of Others: Shows a dedication to nurturing future industry leaders, sharing knowledge, and offering guidance to colleagues and newcomers in the field.
• Service to the Community and Industry: Engages in initiatives that positively impact the community and contributes to the growth and betterment of the festivals and events industry as a whole.
• Achievement and Impact: Has a proven track record of successful events, influential projects, or initiatives that have had a measurable, positive effect on the industry or community.
• Global Impact and Reach: Recognized not only on a local level but also on a national or global scale for contributions that have raised the profile of the events industry worldwide.
• Long-standing Dedication: Has many years of experience and commitment to the field, with a body of work that demonstrates consistency, resilience, and dedication.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Known for effectively navigating challenges and adapting to industry changes, showing resilience and innovation even in difficult circumstances.

Submit Entries To:

Nia Hovde, CFEE, Vice President/Director of Marketing & Communications at nia@ifea.com.

Entry Format

EMAIL your nomination in a Word document with Subject Line for the email: 2026 IFEA Hall of Fame Nomination

A. INDIVIDUAL SUBMITTING NOMINEE

1. Name • Organization • Address • City • State Zip • Phone • Email
2. If your nominee is selected, will you be willing to help ensure that they attend the luncheon?
3. If your nominee is selected, will you be willing to assist the IFEA and the inductee in gathering materials to prepare their induction video?

B. NOMINEE INFORMATION

Answer the following questions, providing specific examples from the individual’s achievements, referencing relevant key qualities and characteristics they have demonstrated. Provide up to a 1 (one) page response (single sided) for each of the below questions, for a maximum total of 4 (four) pages for the entire nomination.

1. Describe how your nominee has made an impact on the festivals and events industry. How have they contributed to the growth, improvement, or innovation within the industry? Please include specific examples that demonstrate their influence.
2. Share how your nominee demonstrated visionary leadership, integrity, and professionalism in the festivals and events industry? Provide examples of how they have led others, introduced innovative ideas, inspired change, and upheld ethical practices, while also mentoring and supporting emerging professionals or peers in the field.
3. Provide an overview of your nominee’s career, including key organizations, positions held, titles, and notable awards or recognitions. Highlight their career milestones and accomplishments that showcase their expertise and leadership in the industry.
4. Describe the extent of your nominee’s involvement with the IFEA throughout their career.