NACUFS Inspire

Columbus, Ohio | December 14-16, 2026

Enliven your campus dining menu at "Inspire: A Culinary Conference," where innovation, expertise, and passion will converge for an immersive 2 1/2-day experience.

Designed for institutional culinarians, attendees will gain practical skills and inspiration to elevate their culinary creations. Thought-provoking sessions will cover industry trends, sustainable practices, menu development strategies, and more. Live cooking demonstrations and interactive teaching kitchen lessons will inspire attendees with cutting-edge techniques, innovative ingredients, and mouthwatering recipes.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a rising star in the campus culinary world, "Inspire" promises invaluable insights to ignite your creativity and drive success in your institution's dining program.

Inspire logo

Registration

Registration coming soon!

Due to extremely limited space, this conference is open only to on-campus culinarians, such as executive chefs, chefs, and sous chefs.

Please contact events@NACUFS.org if you have questions regarding your eligibility.

Early bird rate:

Institutional member full registration - $885

Non-member institutional full registration - $1,390

Regular rate:

Institutional member full registration - $960

Non-member institutional full registration - $1,465
All cancellations must be received in writing. Registration cancelled by November 13, 2026, will be refunded less a $100 cancellation fee. After November 13, 2026, no refunds will be issued.
- Chef’s Jacket: Clean, white or solid-colored, long-sleeved chef’s jacket for protection.
- Pants: Solid-colored pants (black, checkered, or pinstriped). No shorts or skirts allowed.
- Footwear: Closed-toe, non-slip shoes with sturdy soles. No sandals, flip-flops, or heels.
- Other Clothing: Avoid loose sleeves, scarves, or anything that may catch fire or equipment.
- Hair Restraints: Hairnets, bandanas, or chef hats are required for long hair; short hair should be kept neat.
- Jewelry: Minimal jewelry allowed; no rings (except plain bands), bracelets, watches, or dangling earrings.
- Personal Belongings: No personal items (phones, bags) are allowed in the kitchen.

Explore Event Details

Click through the gallery links to find important information about hotel and travel, the agenda, session details, kitchen labs, speakers, sponsors and frequently asked questions.

Hotel and Travel

Please be sure to book within the NACUFS room block at the conference hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all of your questions here! If you are unable to find answers, email events@NACUFS.org.

ACF credits

This program is approved for up to 14 continuing education hours toward the initial or recertification application for American Culinary Federation (ACF) certification.