EMERGE 2026 KEYNOTES
Dr. Michael Preacely
WEDNESDAY BREAKFAST KEYNOTE
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Michael Preacely to kick off our first general session at EMERGE 2026 with his youth choir, Uniting Voices Lexington! Not only does he serve as their artistic director, he's also an internationally acclaimed baritone and university music educator. Michael's keynote will focus on the transformative power of music.
Dr. Preacely holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Oberlin College and both a Master of Music and Doctor of Arts from the University of Kentucky’s College of Fine Arts. He is currently a Lecturer in Voice at the University of Kentucky, where he brings his performance experience and mentorship into the academic realm. Over the years, his operatic and concert career has taken him to stages across the U.S. and abroad — from roles like Phantom, Scarpia, Marcello, and dual roles in Porgy and Bess, to performances with the Cincinnati Opera, the Cleveland Orchestra, Opera Memphis, the American Spiritual Ensemble, and more. While advancing his artistry, he remains deeply invested in youth development: as founder and Artistic Director of Uniting Voices Lexington, he channels his passion for community-building through music, inspiring young singers to find their voices and engage across divides.
James Spellos
WEDNESDAY LUNCH KEYNOTE
We are excited to welcome Jim Spellos, President of Meeting U, who will share his keynote, From Basics to Brilliance: Generative AI in 2026, at EMERGE 2026.
A trusted technology expert in the meetings and events industry, Jim is on a mission “to help people become more productive and confident with technology.” Named a Smart Meetings “Smart Speaker” in 2025 and recognized by Meetings Today as a trendsetter for his “AI Education with Integrity,” he blends technical expertise with an engaging, approachable style. As RCMA’s key technology voice, he empowers our community to navigate a rapidly changing tech landscape, equipping planners with the knowledge and confidence to adapt and thrive.
Beyond technology, Jim is passionate about sustainability and social impact. He serves on the board of Rock and Wrap It Up, a nonprofit that recovers excess food from events, and is a recognized advocate and educator for food recovery and plant-based nutrition. Whether speaking on emerging tech, sustainable practices, or personal wellness, Jim inspires attendees to embrace change, work smarter, and lead with purpose.
Michael Dominguez
THURSDAY LUNCH KEYNOTE
We are thrilled to welcome Michael Dominguez, President and CEO of Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), as a keynote speaker for EMERGE 2026. Michael leads the largest global sales organization of its kind, guiding a talented team across North America and Europe. With decades of experience in hospitality leadership, he brings a wealth of insight into how our industry can adapt, innovate, and thrive in times of change.
Throughout his career, Michael has steered sales and strategy for some of the world’s most recognized hospitality brands, including his time as Chief Sales Officer for MGM Resorts International. A sought-after speaker for Fortune 100 companies, industry conferences, and global events, he is known for making complex trends both understandable and actionable. Michael pairs big-picture vision with practical takeaways, leaving audiences inspired, informed, and equipped to navigate what’s ahead.