#ACELing2026 ~ Holy Shiitake! A Wok Star Is Born
2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference
Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact.
August 13–14, 2026 | Omni Tempe Hotel | Tempe, Arizona
SCHEDULE | TOPICS | SPEAKERS | REGISTRATION
Digital Program Booklet

Holy Shiitake! A Wok Star Is Born
Leadership is shaped by our stories, experiences, and the courage to embrace who we are. At the 2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference, celebrity chef, author, and storyteller Katie Chin will present “Holy Shiitake! A Wok Star Is Born,” a special featured experience celebrating culture, identity, resilience, and entrepreneurship.
Through humor, storytelling, and personal reflection, Katie will share her inspiring journey from growing up in her family’s restaurant kitchens to building her own career as a chef, author, entrepreneur, and cultural ambassador. This engaging presentation explores the connections between heritage and leadership, highlighting the importance of authenticity, perseverance, and embracing the experiences that shape who we become.
Attendees will enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with inspiration, connection, and meaningful conversation alongside fellow ACEL professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
Meet the Featured Speaker:
Katie Chin, Celebrity Chef, Author & Culinary Ambassador
Katie Chin is an award-winning celebrity chef, bestselling cookbook author, caterer, and Culinary Ambassador for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Raised in the kitchens of her mother, renowned restaurateur Leeann Chin, Katie developed a lifelong passion for food, culture, and storytelling. After building a successful career in film and television marketing, Katie returned to her culinary roots and has since authored five acclaimed cookbooks, including Everyday Chinese Cookbook and Katie Chin’s Global Family Cookbook. She has appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Live with Kelly & Mark, The Today Show, and Food Network favorites including Iron Chef America, Beat Bobby Flay, and Chopped. Katie’s work has been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Bon Appétit, and Real Simple. Through food, humor, and authentic storytelling, she inspires audiences to embrace resilience, celebrate cultural heritage, and lead with purpose.
Leadership Through Culture, Connection, and Storytelling
Our personal stories are powerful sources of leadership. They shape how we connect with others, overcome challenges, and create meaningful impact. Katie Chin’s journey reminds us that authenticity and cultural heritage are not barriers to success—they are strengths that can inspire innovation, connection, and purpose.
Join us at the 2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference for this special experience celebrating the intersection of leadership, culture, entrepreneurship, and community.
2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference
Theme: Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact.
#ACELing2026 #ShapingWhatsNext #KatieChin #CulinaryLeadership #CulturalHeritage #Entrepreneurship #AAPILeadership #LeadershipConference #ACELNational #InfluenceInnovationImpact




