Visit Salt Lake’s
2026 Salt Summit and Awards
Be Inspired, Be Empowered
Come to learn, leave inspired. The SALT Summit and Awards is more than an event; it's an experience that will motivate you to achieve greatness in your hospitality career.
SALT: Service | Accomplishment | Leadership | Tenacity
Opening Keynote
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James Lawrence
James Lawrence — better known as the Iron Cowboy — is a world-renowned speaker, bestselling author, and endurance athlete who redefined human potential by completing 50 Ironmans in 50 days across all 50 states - and then doing the unthinkable - 100 full-distance triathlons in 100 consecutive days. He’s been named one of Sports Illustrated’s “Fittest 50,” featured in two acclaimed documentaries, holds multiple Guiness World Records and has honored alongside icons like LeBron James and Conor McGregor. James’s story isn’t just about athletic records - it’s about purpose, resilience, and refusing to settle for average.
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Closing Keynote
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Chris Mazdzer
A four-time Olympian and the first American and non-European man to win an Olympic medal in Men's Singles Luge, earning silver at the 2018 PyeongChang Games.His career spanned 23 World Cup medals and seven national championships, designing and building his own 2022 Olympic sled. His Olympic silver wasn't a story of dominance. It was a story of preparation, belief, and choosing to fail forward through two decades of setbacks. After retiring from competition in December 2023, Chris stepped into corporate sales with no prior experience and spent two years proving that the same principles that got him to the Olympic podium work just as well in business.
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Breakout Sessions
Chief Operating Officer at Unchained and Co-Founder of JourneyWorks AI, where he helps enterprise organizations navigate the intersection of technology strategy and organizational transformation. Tyler is passionate about making artificial intelligence understandable and actionable. He believes that AI is not just a technical innovation, but a catalyst for redefining how people and organizations operate.
Mary Crafts is quite simply, a living legend. As the founder of Culinary Crafts, Mary is a masterful caterer and businesswoman who served thousands of clients including two presidents of the United States, and hundreds of Fortune 500 companies. Mary is thrilled to share her hard-won life lessons with others, as only she can—with her badass attitude and loving heart of Oneness.
After serving a decade in the Marine Corps, the travel & tourism industry, and events management, the ability to empower others and guide them from ideation to action has resulted in the success of many personal and professional endeavors. A connector of people, interests, and ideas with keen insights, and the ability to create synergy among groups while radiating enthusiasm.
A nationally recognized leader with over two decades in destination development, visitor experience design, and economic impact strategy, she leads Visit Salt Lake as a Destination Sales and Experience Organization focused on driving visitation, competitive positioning, and long-term growth for Salt Lake County. As the creator of VX Design framework she leads a movement helping teams turn everyday moments into emotional landmarks.
Salt Awards Dress Code
Step into the romance of Dirty Dancing with a look inspired by high-end resort style of the 1960s. Think polished, effortless elegance. Flowy silhouettes, A-line midi dresses, and soft pastels set the tone, paired with timeless accessories and warm, vintage-inspired hues.
For men, think classic slacks paired with collared shirts for a clean, elevated resort look. Overall, channel what you might wear to a glamorous summer getaway in the 60s. Chic, timeless, and perfect for a night of celebration.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Be a champion in the community as a partner of the SALT Summit and Awards, the premier day-long educational and awards program dedicated to honoring the hard work, dedication, and exceptional service of our hospitality industry professionals. Opportunities range from Champion to Partner, Supporter, or Hospitality.
Salt Summit & Awards Questions
When and where is the Salt Summit?
2026 SALT Summit
Date: June 9, 2025
Time: 8:00am – 1:30pm
Where: Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City
170 S West Temple
When and where are the Salt Awards?
2026 SALT Awards
Date: June 9, 2026
Time: 6:00pm
Where: Capitol Theatre
50 West 200 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
How much is registration for the Summit and Awards?
Visit Salt Lake Members receive discounted ticket rates.
Summit Only: $99 (VSL Members)/ $149 (non-members)
Summit and Awards: $149 (VSL Members)/ $199 (non-members)
Awards Only: $79 (VSL Members)/ $99 (non-members)
For bulk ticket options, check out Sponsorship options:
Sponsorship Information
Can I register on-site?
Last-minute registration will be available depending on capacity. Online payment will be required.
Register now
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation information is included in your registration confirmation. If you don’t have access, you can reach out to: AChappell@visitsaltlake.com
What should I wear?
Summit Sessions (Morning)
Come as you are—ready to learn, connect, and show up as your best self. We encourage attendees to dress comfortably and confidently, in a style that reflects who you are. Whether that’s business casual, bold and creative, or simply what helps you feel focused and at ease—we’re here for it.
Awards Show (Evening)
The SALT Awards are a special celebration of excellence in our industry. While there's no formal dress code, we invite you to elevate your look for the occasion—whatever that means for you.
Salt Awards Dress Theme
Step into the romance of Dirty Dancing with a look inspired by high-end resort style of the 1960s. Think polished, effortless elegance. Flowy silhouettes, A-line midi dresses, and soft pastels set the tone, paired with timeless accessories and warm, vintage-inspired hues.
For men, think classic slacks paired with collared shirts for a clean, elevated resort look. Overall, channel what you might wear to a glamorous summer getaway in the 60s. Chic, timeless, and perfect for a night of celebration.
What matters most is that you feel ready to celebrate the incredible contributions of your peers. Whether you're in sneakers or sequins, you belong.
