NACUFS Engage: Midwest
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Ann Arbor, Michigan
NACUFS Engage brings campus dining professionals together for a focused, one-day regional experience designed to spark conversation, share practical ideas, and strengthen connections across the Midwest. Hosted at the University of Michigan, this event blends peer-driven discussion, timely operational insights, and hands-on engagement—creating space to learn from one another and return to campus with fresh perspective.
Location
University of Michigan
Michigan Union
530 S State St
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Located in the heart of campus, the Michigan Union provides a welcoming, walkable setting for collaboration, conversation, and connection throughout the day. One of the most beloved buildings on central campus, the union is impressive in stature and alive with activity. Be sure to stroll through the historic halls and enjoy the beautifully restored architectural details.
Parking
There is metered parking available behind the Michigan Union on Thompson Street as well as a visitor parking lot at 400 Thompson Street (behind the Michigan Union) near the Student Activities Building.
Registration
Institutional: $119
Industry: $175
Registration includes access to all sessions, networking opportunities, and the culinary challenge experience.
Registration may be cancelled for a full refund less a $50 administration fee through February 17. After February 17, no refunds will be issued.
Schedule
*Schedule is tentative and subject to change
Tuesday, March 3rd |
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9 - 11 a.m. |
Registration |
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11 a.m. - 12:05 p.m. |
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12:05 - 12:20 p.m. |
Refreshment break |
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12:20 - 1:05 p.m. |
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1:15 - 3:30 p.m. |
Networking Lunch and Culinary Challenge |
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3:40 - 4:25 p.m. |
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4:25 - 4:40 p.m. |
Refreshment break |
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4:40 - 5:30 p.m. |
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5:30 - 6:15 p.m. |
Closing Reception – Culinary Challenge Awards |
From interactive sessions to informal conversations over lunch and the Culinary Challenge, the day is designed to balance learning with connection—creating multiple touchpoints to engage with peers, speakers, and partners.
Explore Learning Sessions
Culinary Challenge Competitors
Paulina Adriana Rivas Ayala, sous chef, Michigan State University
Cassandra Eddy, executive sous chef, University of Notre Dame
Kevin Hurst, executive chef, Ohio University
Corey King, campus executive chef , University of Chicago
Justin Lucas, senior executive chef, University of Michigan
Crystol Smith, assistant director for culinary services, University of Illinois
Hotel
Bell Tower Hotel
300 S. Thayer Street
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104
NACUFS has secured a courtesy room block at the Bell Tower Hotel. The hotel is located .4 miles (7 minute walk) from Michigan Union.
Thank you to our sponsors!
Interested in sponsoring? Email Allison Noyes to learn more.
