Chef Alex Smith has built Plated Table in Iowa City with creativity, independence, and a commitment to women in hospitality. She and her partner designed and built the restaurant themselves, giving her the freedom to shape both the space and its culture. With a majority-female staff—and a kitchen crew made up entirely of women—Alex is intentional about creating opportunities that are too often rare in the industry. Her advice to women entering the field is direct: “Seek out restaurants owned, run, and staffed by other women.”

At 21, Alyssa Peterson began meal prepping out of her parents’ basement, trading nights out for recipe testing and planning menus. She launched Healthy 2 Wholesome Meals just weeks before Covid, adapting through uncertainty and growing a loyal following. Today, she runs her own commercial kitchen in the Quad Cities, preparing 500 meals a week with a team that includes her husband and five staff. Alyssa partners with local farms and entrepreneurs, sourcing seasonal produce and responsibly raised proteins. She encourages women entering the field: “Find a unique niche and make it fun.”

Amanda Hollinger discovered her passion for hospitality while working part-time in college and has since built more than a decade of experience in catering, venue operations, and wedding planning. Today, she manages sales and events at Willow on Grand and coordinates for White Willow Events, helping couples and families create lasting memories. A mother of two, Amanda credits hospitality with giving her the chance to grow as a leader while also balancing family life. Her advice to young women: “Don’t be afraid to step into leadership roles early in your career.”

When the 2008 recession forced Amanda Riordan to change careers, she chose culinary school over law school—and never looked back. Now Food Service Director for Aramark at Grand View University, Amanda brings leadership experience from country clubs, schools, and retirement communities. She also serves on the Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation Board, helping launch the Restaurant Ready Program with Goodwill by connecting participants to hospitality careers. Amanda believes women thrive when they focus on “leading in their own way” and reminds them not to lose heart when the industry feels like a “boy’s club.”

For Ande Long, hospitality has always been the only path. From her first jobs in guest services to her current role as Catering Sales Manager at The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, she’s built a career defined by service, loyalty, and passion for creating memorable events. A mother of two, Ande embraces the challenge of balancing family life with a demanding industry—and uses her position in a teaching hotel to show students it’s possible to “have it all.” Her advice: “Be the obvious answer…on hard days, come back tomorrow and try again.”

What began as a college hobby has grown into a thriving business for Anna Lam. Encouraged by her family and friends to start selling her macarons, Anna went from local farmers markets to opening Good Day, first at Valley West Mall and now in a bustling storefront in Ankeny. Known for her colorful macarons and Vietnamese coffee, she has built a loyal following on social media. Anna values hospitality for its connection to people, reminding women entering the field: “Pour into yourself, too—so your passion lasts without burnout.”

Becky Klisares is the General Manager and Director of Sales and Events at River Center Events and Catering in Des Moines. In this role, she oversees day-to-day operations and works with clients to coordinate weddings, corporate gatherings, and community events. She has years of experience in event management, including a past role at West Glen Town Center. Klisares also shares her expertise through professional panels, such as a 2025 discussion on event budgeting. Her work keeps her closely connected to the Des Moines business community and its growing hospitality sector.

Beth Romer grew up around a kitchen table where her farm family practiced everyday hospitality—sharing meals, coffee, and conversation with anyone who stopped by. Today, as Program Director of Choose Iowa, she helps consumers find Iowa-grown, Iowa-raised and Iowa-made food, beverages, and ag products – connecting Iowans with neighboring farm families, local food businesses, and farm-to-table experiences across the state. She also collaborates with partners like the Iowa Restaurant Association and Iowa Tourism Office to showcase Iowa’s chefs and producers through farm-to-table dinners and culinary competitions. Guided by her mantra to “make things better than I found them,” Beth sees every role as an opportunity to learn and serve.

Blair Zachariasen has earned the WSET Diploma in Wines, is is also a Certified Sommelier and Certified Specialist of Wine with more than two decades of experience in the beverage industry. After managing a boutique wine shop in New York City, she returned to Iowa to lead wine, beer, and spirits programs and now serves as Assistant General Manager for Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits. Blair is recognized for her advanced certifications, her colorful and approachable way of teaching flavor, and her dedication to making wine and beer education accessible to all. She continues to shape Iowa’s beverage scene with expertise and passion.

As Marketing Director of Iowa Distilling Company, Brooke Avila has helped put Iowa spirits on the map. From Prairie Fire to Iowa State 1858 Vodka, her work brings local labels to backbars across the state and beyond. Brooke pairs brand-building with community impact, leading initiatives like Cocktails for a Cause to support nonprofits and donating beef—raised on cattle fed with bourbon grains—to food shelters. She also serves on local boards, helping strengthen Iowa’s hospitality landscape. For Brooke, every cocktail tells a bigger story about connection, community, and pride of place.

Cassandra Spence turned a passion for food into a career built on teaching and community. After serving as resident chef at the Des Moines Social Club, she founded The Culinary Annex in Valley Junction, a modular kitchen and creative space for classes, events, and culinary entrepreneurs. Recently inducted into Les Dames d’Escoffier, Cassandra uplifts immigrant communities by promoting local restaurants and inviting others to share their cuisines. She encourages women in hospitality to build connections: “It’s important to make friends and create community to uplift yourself as well as others.”

For Cassie McCreary, hospitality is about turning customers into family. Since 2008, she and her husband have grown McCreary’s Hospitality from a small garage-based catering business into a thriving operation serving private parties and weddings, as well as corporate and community events across northwest Iowa. Today, their kitchen at Iowa Lakes Community College also serves students and the public through dine-in, carry-out, and delivery. Cassie manages the details that keep everything running smoothly, guided by her belief that “everyone deserves to be seen and feel seen.” It’s a philosophy that keeps guests returning for more than just the food.

Cienna Daniels turned an eight-year career as a server and bartender into her current role as General Manager of George’s Local. She believes food is never just food, but a way of bringing people together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories that stay with them long after the meal ends. Known for her warmth and charisma, Cienna leads with confidence and earns loyalty from her team by offering the same support she asks of them. Her advice: “Don’t be afraid to take up space and let your personality shine.”

Cyndi Gryte is the owner of Juniper & Olive Co., a cozy café and bistro that blends vintage charm with modern hospitality. Located in a restored 1881 building, the space offers coffee, cocktails, and small plates with a focus on local flavors. After years in New York City, including time at the iconic Coyote Ugly, Cyndi returned to Iowa to create a welcoming gathering place where people can slow down and connect. With plans to expand into a mercantile, she continues to shape an atmosphere full of warmth, flavor, and community spirit.

For Danette Meyer, hospitality runs in the family. A third-generation restaurant and bar owner, she has worked in nearly every role over her 30-year career before opening Grant Ranch Grub & Pub. Launching the business during Covid while raising five children, she credits her supportive community for helping her reach her goals—and she gives back by mentoring youth and the disabled for future employment, along with providing meals for local schools and clubs. Danette encourages young women to “set both short- and long-term goals” to build the career they envision.

DeAnna Rogers-Walter took an unexpected path when she and her partner, Rick, opened their historic Davenport home as Café D’Marie in 2009. What began as a personal venture quickly became a destination, known for its eclectic menu, warm welcome, and sense of community. Café D’Marie has since earned national recognition, including a spot on Yelp’s Top 100 Restaurants in 2023—the only Iowa restaurant on the list. Guided by gratitude, DeAnna credits her faith, staff, patrons, and especially Rick – whose shared dream and daily presence remain woven into the cafe’s fabric – for transforming their home into a lasting hospitality treasure.

As Bakery and Events Manager at Main Street Café & Bakery, Dee Schuck has been instrumental in building award-winning success. The bakery has earned honors including Best Desserts, Best Cakes, and Best Bakery in Ankeny. But Dee’s impact extends beyond accolades—her presence on the floor, greeting customers and ensuring every detail is right, sets the tone for the entire restaurant. From catering and events to creating pastries for other concepts like HomeGrown Kitchen, Dee’s positive energy and dedication continue to make the business stronger and more customer-focused every day.

Diana Giles has built a career at the intersection of wine, food, and hospitality. A Certified Sommelier with WSET II distinction, she spent a decade in wine and spirits sales before returning to Iowa to pursue culinary training. Today, as General Manager and Food & Beverage Director at Walker Homestead Farm & Winery, she leads menu development and curates immersive farm-to-table experiences that connect guests directly to the vineyard and gardens. Known for her creativity and guest-focused approach, Diana brings passion, expertise, and authenticity to Iowa’s growing culinary and wine scene.

Dionne Sama and her husband, Amara, spent years serving Caribbean and West African flavors from a food truck before opening Palms DSM on Ingersoll Avenue in 2024. Now, in their first brick-and-mortar space, Dionne helps lead a restaurant that is as much about culture as cuisine. From handcrafted sauces to vibrant spices, Palms celebrates heritage and community while introducing Iowans to new flavors. Dionne believes food is a universal connector, turning every plate into an invitation to gather, share stories, and feel at home.

At the Haverhill Social Club, Emily Ewoldt turns a small-town bar into a year-round gathering place. She dreams up events that bring people out in every season—from HaverChill Day and chili cook-offs to a growing “show and shine” car and motorcycle meet—while hosting fundraisers that support families, the fire station, and the park. Regulars rave about the pizza and the atmosphere, and visitors make it a destination. As Emily puts it, the goal is simple: use good food and fun to strengthen the town she loves.

Giovanna Rodríguez Padilla is the first Director of the Iowa Latino Hospitality Council, where she is building resources and opportunities for Spanish-speaking hospitality owners and entrepreneurs. She led Spanish-language promotion efforts that brought nearly 200 restaurant professionals into certification programs delivered in partnership with the Iowa Restaurant Association and Iowa Workforce Development. Giovanna has also elevated Latino-owned restaurants through marketing strategies involving video, social media, and earned media campaigns while organizing monthly meetings with expert speakers for business owners. A former journalist with international nonprofit experience, she is dedicated to empowering Latino voices in Iowa’s hospitality industry.

Heather Thompson has built her career at B-Bop’s, starting as a team member at 14 and working her way up to General Manager. Along the way, the company’s culture gave her the flexibility to raise her family while advancing in leadership. Today, she manages Iowa’s largest B-Bop’s—a true double drive-thru in Cedar Rapids—and continues to inspire her team with her dedication and drive. Heather’s advice to young women in hospitality: “Always be teachable and willing to learn. Work hard, stay flexible, and always be a team player.”

Jacqueline Milian opened Mammitas Coffee as a welcoming space that celebrates her Spanish heritage and honors her mother and grandmother, for whom the café is named. Featuring signature drinks like Horchata and Dulce de Leche lattes, and traditional desserts like pastelitos de guava, Salvadoran quesadilla, and flan, Mammitas has become a one-of-a-kind gathering place in Iowa City. With three generations working side-by-side, Mammitas feels like home away from home. Built through the support of friends, family, and her church community, Jacqueline’s vision extends beyond food and coffee – Mammitas is a place of culture, family, and community connection.

With nearly 25 years in the industry, Jill Roling has built a career defined by adaptability and growth. She began in Purchasing after graduating from UNI and today serves as General Manager of Iowa-Des Moines Supply/Baker Paper & Supply, where she oversees all phases of operations. Her nominator notes, “In a small company where everyone wears multiple hats, Jill takes that to the next level—she’s capable of covering every role when needed, leading by example and with a relentless growth mindset. Her broad expertise and steady leadership make her a woman to watch in Iowa’s hospitality industry.”

Kaitlyn Koranda began her career in hospitality with a high school job and has worked her way up to Operations Manager at The Fun Station Adventure Park in Cedar Rapids. Along the way, she built leadership skills, gained confidence, and found a passion for supporting her team and creating great guest experiences. Kaitlyn now plays a key role in planning Iowa’s largest indoor adventure park, which will feature multiple food and beverage outlets, 20+ attractions, and more than 130 team members. Her advice to women in hospitality: “Be open to every opportunity.”

In 2019, Kara Kelso and her husband transformed an old hardware store in Des Moines’ Highland Park neighborhood into The Slow Down Coffee Co.—a warm, inclusive space designed for connection in an increasingly isolated world. Kara believes coffee is a catalyst for meaningful relationships, and her shop has become a hub for community and collaboration. Recognized with honors including Fuse Entrepreneur of the Year and the OneIowa Community Partnership Award, she also supports other entrepreneurs through her work in commercial real estate. For Kara, hospitality is about people, place, and building something lasting together.

With degrees in Non-Profit Management and Curriculum and Instruction, Kellie Soper never expected her career path to lead to hospitality. After 12 years at home raising her children, she joined Roots 95 as a server and soon became Catering and Events Manager, discovering a passion for creating memorable experiences. Today, she also plays a key role with Flame Group, where her insight into customer preferences and strategic thinking have boosted business while strengthening brand identity. Kellie encourages young women to “follow a passion, take a risk, and believe in what you do.”

Kiley Simonson-Frank’s path in hospitality has taken her through nearly every restaurant role, from serving and bartending to management and now Sous Chef at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse. A culinary school graduate, she also spent years as a high school foods teacher, inspiring students to discover their own passion for cooking. Much of her own work is rooted in memories of her late mother, reflected in the flavors and dishes she cherished. Marked by resilience and growth, Kiley has transformed life’s challenges into strength, finding in the kitchen both creativity and a life she is deeply proud of.

Catering Manager at the Embassy Club, Kristy Maras, brings years of experience in roles ranging from banquet manager to fine dining trainer. She has played an important role in making Iowa Restaurant Association events at the Embassy Club exceptional, blending operational know-how with a genuine focus on people. Kristy believes hospitality is one of the few industries where emotional intelligence, intuition, and leadership intersect daily — and women thrive in that space. Reflecting on her career, she shares that “hospitality has given me the platform to lead with heart.”

Madeline Krantz is a self-taught chef and entrepreneur who helped pioneer Iowa’s plant-based dining scene. In her early 20s, she opened New World Café, Des Moines’ first fully vegan restaurant, and later relaunched the concept in 2020 as New World Kitchen, a meal prep company focused on whole, unprocessed ingredients and original recipes. Her business is built on sustainability, creativity, and connection, values that resonate with her loyal community of customers. Madeline sees hospitality as a way to uplift people and create meaningful experiences, making her a true woman to watch in Iowa’s hospitality industry.

In 2024, Mandy McCrary stepped into the role of Senior Transportation Manager at US Foods and immediately made a lasting impact on her team and customers. Named the company’s Culture Champion for embodying its core values and honored with the 2024 Presidential Award, she has distinguished herself as a leader who delivers results with empathy, reliability, and creativity. Mandy believes hospitality is about listening, building trust, and providing solutions people can count on. Her approach to leadership reflects those values, making her a standout professional and a true woman to watch in Iowa’s hospitality industry.

At Luna Valley Farm, Maren Beard has turned her passion for sustainable food systems into a thriving hospitality venture. After earning a master’s degree in Sustainable Food Systems and spending a decade advancing sustainability at Luther College, she now works full-time on the farm she co-owns. Luna Valley is known for its certified organic practices, grass-fed lamb and beef, and especially its wood-fired pizza nights, which sell out regularly. Maren sees the farm as a gathering place for community, blending her love of food, farming, and hospitality into every detail of the experience.

Mary Earnhardt became President and CEO of the Iowa Gaming Association in January 2025, stepping into leadership of one of Iowa’s most significant tourism and economic drivers. Iowa’s casinos are more than gaming venues – they also serve as hotels, restaurants, and event centers – placing her work at the center of the state’s hospitality industry. She actively collaborates with the Iowa Restaurant Association and Iowa Hotel & Lodging Association, and serves on the Iowa Travel Industry Partners board to address broad issues facing Iowa’s visitor economy. Prior to joining the Iowa Gaming Association, Mary held senior roles at the statehouse and in public policy.

Mary Schott has built her career with Iowa State University Dining, starting as a student employee in 2003 and now serving as Associate Director of IT, Menu Management and Nutritional Services. She oversees systems that manage more than 10,000 recipes across 23 dining locations while also leading nutritional services for students with special dietary needs. In 2022, her team earned the national CBORD Visionary Award for innovation in dining technology. Mary also serves on ISU’s Sustainability Committee, helping integrate sustainable practices into dining. She encourages women in hospitality to seek mentors, keep learning, and lead with empathy.

From mobile bartending to opening her own lounge, Megan Libe has built a fast-rising career in hospitality. She launched The Tipsy Travelers in 2022, bringing stylish setups and creative cocktails to weddings and events, and quickly became a go-to name in Eastern Iowa. Now she’s expanding her vision with Libations on Iowa, a brick-and-mortar lounge offering cocktails, small bites, and event space. Recognized with awards from Eastern Iowa Wedding Professionals, Megan believes hospitality is about creating connections and encourages women to turn their passions into opportunities that can grow into something bigger.

Natalie Carroll went from teaching in the classroom to teaching behind the counter. A former Spanish and Language Arts teacher, she and her husband became owners of Over the Top three years ago, where she now mentors teens in the art of “unreasonable hospitality.” Under her leadership, the shop has earned recognition locally and nationally, including the 2025 Iowa State Fair’s Sweetest Food award for their Scotcheroo Shake. Natalie encourages young women in hospitality to seek role models, learn from their experiences, and embrace creativity and generosity in their own careers.

With 20 years in Iowa hospitality, Shannon Arnold has built a reputation for excellence in events and leadership. As Director of Events and a member of the Executive Committee at the Hyatt Regency Coralville, she oversees everything from corporate gatherings of nearly 1,000 to signature community celebrations. Her team’s performance has pushed food and beverage revenue past $1 million in growth, and the property ranks #3 among all Hyatt Regencies for Food & Beverage experience year-to-date. CMP-certified and a former Marriott Emerging Leader, Shannon pairs innovation with care, creating memorable experiences and mentoring the next generation of hospitality professionals.

Susan Stapleton has become central Iowa’s trusted voice on dining, keeping readers connected to the people, trends, and stories shaping the hospitality industry. As entertainment editor and dining reporter at The Des Moines Register, she covers everything from high-end dining experiences to neighborhood favorites and state fair traditions, always with an eye for novelty and impact. With a background that includes leading Eater Vegas, Susan combines national expertise with local insight, elevating Iowa’s food scene through engaging storytelling. Her work not only celebrates restaurants and chefs but also strengthens the bond between community and cuisine.

Trang Pham is both an entrepreneur and a trailblazer. In 2016, she became Iowa’s first woman infantry officer with the Iowa Army National Guard after the combat arms ban was lifted. At the same time, she built The Eggroll Ladies from rolling egg rolls to help families in need into a food truck, nonprofit, and now a brick-and-mortar business with plans for wholesale distribution. Her mission is to create flexible, meaningful jobs—especially for young women—and to use food as a way to serve the community. Pham exemplifies grit, service, and vision in all she does.

Whitney Linville knows hospitality by heart. With nearly 20 years of industry experience, from late-night bar shifts to leading restaurant teams, she turned her passion into purpose by creating redhead media, her full-time focus since 2022. Whitney helps local restaurants and businesses share their stories through thoughtful photography, intentional digital marketing, and campaigns that honor their craft and bring their vision to life. She connects businesses and the communities they serve, strengthening relationships and driving business forward. At the core of it all is her belief that hospitality builds community. Whitney’s work celebrates connection, fuels creativity, and continues to shape Iowa’s dining scene with authenticity and a lasting impact.