Annual Summit 2026 | Visit Mesa
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Mesa Visitor Industry Annual Summit

Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Visit Mesa
Annual Summit 2026

Unlocking What’s Possible

Program 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. Breakfast available beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Location Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa

Welcome to the 2026 Visit Mesa Annual Summit, where we will celebrate the people and partnerships moving Mesa forward and explore how a visit can lead to deeper connections with our community.

View today’s agenda

September 22

Today’s Agenda

The morning’s program, in order.

  1. Registration, Breakfast and Networking

  2. Welcome and Opening Remarks

    Mayor’s Remarks

    Mayor Mark Freeman

    Visit Mesa Annual Update

    A look at Visit Mesa’s impact, accomplishments and priorities for the year ahead

    Annual Awards Presentation

    • Mike Whalen Spirit of Community Service Award
    • Mesa Visitor Industry Champion Award

    Featured Panel Discussion:

    Expanding the Idea of Connection

    A conversation about the connections between visiting Mesa and choosing to live, work, build a business or invest here.

    Moderator
    Adam Stoker, Brand Revolt
    Panelists
    • Ben Snow, City of Mesa Office of Economic Development
    • Charlie Gregory, Benedictine University
    • Andrea Alicoate, City of Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities
    • Rose Hanne, Visit Mesa Board of Directors

    Closing Remarks

  3. Program Concludes

Celebrating Leadership

Honoring This Year’s Award Recipients

Mesa Visitor Industry Champion Award

2026 Honoree

Mesa Arts Center

The Mesa Visitor Industry Champion Award recognizes an individual or organization whose leadership and commitment have left a lasting mark on Mesa’s visitor economy. Honorees demonstrate how tourism can ignite community pride, fuel economic growth and elevate Mesa’s standing as a premier destination.

Mike Whalen Spirit of Community Service Award

2026 Honoree

Rose Hanne

The Mike Whalen Spirit of Community Service Award recognizes an individual who demonstrates exceptional character, strong community values and a sustained commitment to serving Mesa. It honors those who generously contribute their time, expertise and leadership to create a meaningful and lasting impact on the community.

Visitor Industry Advocacy

Visitors Mean Business

Mesa’s visitor industry supports local businesses, creates jobs, strengthens city services and contributes to the quality of life enjoyed by residents.

Learn Why Visitors Mean Business