Questex’s PODD, the Premier Gathering for Drug Delivery Industry Leaders, Announces the 16th Annual Conference Agenda

Conference set to take place October 29-30 in Boston

NEW YORK, June 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Fierce Life Sciences today announces the agenda for the PODD: Partnership Opportunities in Drug Delivery Conference, the premier gathering for drug delivery industry leaders. Set to take place October 29-30, 2026, at the Sheraton Boston Hotel, the 16th annual PODD conference brings together over 1,000 executives, innovators and strategic decision-makers to advance the design and development of drug delivery systems and devices to improve patient lives.

“As someone working at the forefront of emerging modalities, I see PODD as uniquely valuable because it brings together the full ecosystem needed to translate novel biology into viable therapies, where delivery often becomes the gating factor,” said Suman Luthra, Director, Discovery Pharmaceutical Sciences, Merck.

With more than 150 sessions across multiple tracks, the PODD conference features keynotes, panels, roundtables and case studies with thought leaders from across the pharma and drug delivery ecosystem.

2026 featured sessions include:

  • Keynote: Dr George Yancopoulos, Regeneron’s Co-Founder, Board Co-Chair, President and Chief Scientific Officer will join MIT’s Dr Robert Langer, a pioneer in the research and development of drug delivery technology, to discuss the state of innovation in the drug delivery industry.
  • Patient Keynote: Sabrena Gates will share her family’s journey with Luxturna, a gene therapy designed to treat inherited retinal diseases caused by mutations in both copies of the RPE65 gene.
  • How Companies Use AI to Support Drug Delivery will be addressed by AstraZeneca’s Head of Advanced Drug Delivery, Dr Annette Bak, Intrepid Lab’s Co-Founder & CEO, Dr Christine Allen, GSK’s VP, Portfolio and Technology Development, Dr Manish Gupta, Eli Lilly and Company’s VP, Drug Delivery, Device, Connected Solutions & Innovation, Dr Anand Subramony, and Bristol Myers Squibb’s Director, Portfolio Strategy & Integration, Rashmi Thakur.
  • Johnson & Johnson’s Scientific Director, Oral Peptide Formulation Technologies, Wouter Müllers, Vertex Pharmaceutical’s VP, Combination Devices, David Dunleavy, Daiichi Sankyo’s VP, Global Search & Evaluation – Early Stage, Global Business Development, Dr Shiv Krishnan, and Astellas Pharma’s, Senior Director, Head of DDS, Dr Takayuki Yoshida will present on their companies’ partnering philosophy, current needs and scouting interests, as related to drug delivery and enabling technologies as part of the Pharma Company Spotlights.
  • The Successful Partnering between Pharma, Drug Delivery and Academia panel is led by Boehringer Ingelheim’s Senior Associate Director, Innovation Technology, Dr Jill Steinbach-Rankins, with Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicines’ Senior Director External Innovation DPDS, Dr Elena Diez Cecilia, MIT’s Director, Strategic Alliances & Partnerships, Dr Tarek Fadel, and CSL Bering’s Search & Evaluation, Immunoglobulin (Ig) Therapeutic Area and Technologies Lead Dr Sarah Tao.
  • Sun Pharmaceutical’s Mark Simon, UnitedHealth Group’s, Lambert van der and Sherman Healthcare Solutions’ Dr Michael Sherman lead the Payer discussion on how companies can position their drug delivery-enabled therapies for reimbursement, the impact of direct-to-consumer accessibility on GLP-1 drugs, and cell and gene therapies for non-malignancies and conditions for which there are already effective treatments.

The PODD conference will also feature multi-stakeholder participation, including leaders from AbbVie, Alexion, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Astellas Pharma, AstraZeneca, Biogen, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chiesi USA, CSL Bering, Daiichi Sankyo, Eli Lilly & Company, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, GSK, Merck, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Regeneron, Roche, Sanofi, Sun Pharma, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Upstream Bio, Vertex Pharmaceuticals and more.

The 2026 Drug Delivery Technology Presentations cover:

  • Injectable Formulations & Technologies
  • Oral, Nasal, Pulmonary & Other Non-Injectable Technologies
  • Novel Injectable & Non-Injectable Technologies
  • Novel Devices, Self-Injectables, Wearables & Connected Devices
  • Novel Device Technologies
  • Cell, Gene, & Novel Biologics Delivery
  • Novel Materials & Excipient Innovation
  • Self-Injection Devices, Syringes, Primary Container & Packaging Solutions

To register to attend PODD, click here.

Learn more about sponsorship opportunities, here.

About PODD: Partnership Opportunities in Drug Delivery Conference

Pharma, biotech and the drug delivery industries gather annually at PODD to assess delivery needs, latest trends and information on deals, and learn about a wide range of innovative drug delivery technologies that could improve the delivery of various types of drugs. This can include proteins, peptides, oligonucleotides, biologics, small molecules and more. PODD provides business development opportunities through organized networking and a partnering tool for new, emerging and established collaborations.

To learn more about the PODD conference, please visit PODDConference.com.

About Fierce Life Sciences

Fierce Life Sciences Events offers a full suite of news, analysis and event education, all in one place. From preclinical research to market and beyond, our team of editors and handpicked experts deliver insights you can source with confidence and events, both virtual and live, that support professional and business growth.

About Questex

Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact

Allyson Adams

PODD

aadams@questex.com 

Questex’s DPHARM Announces Senior Leadership and Keynotes for the 16th Annual Conference

BOSTON, June 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DPHARM, the leading innovation event for clinical trial operation executives, announces the 16th annual conference agenda including its senior leadership and keynotes. DPHARM which is now part of Questex’s Fierce Life Sciences, takes place September 15-16, 2026, at the Sheraton Boston Hotel.

The first line up of senior level clinical operation executives include:

  • Jennifer Sheller, SVP, Head of Global Clinical Trial Operations, Global Clinical Development, Merck
  • David Carruthers, VP, Head of Global Clinical Operations, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca
  • Nikki Amaratunge, VP, Clinical Development Operations, Head of Clinical Site Management, AbbVie
  • Karen Correa, VP, Clinical Development Operations, Boehringer Ingelheim
  • Bari Kowal, SVP, Head Development Operations & Portfolio Management, Regeneron

The 2026 Keynotes include:

John Volanthen, world-renowned British cave diver who was integral in the rescue of the Thai Boys’ soccer team in 2018 gives the disruptive keynote.

Gunnar Esiason, Cystic Fibrosis Patient Advocate and industry executive shares his three-decade patient journey.

Janelle A. Sabo, SVP of Clinical Research Capabilities, Eli Lilly and Company, presents the Industry Keynote on the most innovative trends shaping the future of clinical research.

Kenneth Getz, MBA, Director and Professor, Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development, Tufts University School of Medicine, speaks on change management, why innovation adoption stalls and how to overcome it.

Jeremy Walsh, Former Chief AI Officer, US Food and Drug Administration, speaks on real-time clinical trials.

Core themes of the agenda include real-time clinical trials, scalable innovation, workforce development, enterprise-wide AI adoption, and the redesign of clinical operating models to support faster, more efficient development.

Other presenting pharmaceutical companies include Abeona Therapeutics, Acelot Inc., Alexion, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Amgen, AskBio, Astellas, AstraZeneca, Bayer, BeOne Medicines, Biogen, BMS, CSL, Daiichi Sankyo, Eli Lilly, Genmab, Gilead Sciences, GSK, J&J Innovative Medicine, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Kyowa Kirin, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Parabilis Medicines, Pfizer, Sanofi, Takeda, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals.

“DPHARM 2026 will showcase the latest innovative approaches and practical strategies to scale what works, from AI to operating models, to drive measurable improvements in trial performance and patient experience.” said Tracey Kimball, DPHARM Conference Director.

In addition to the keynotes, DPHARM 2026 has over 200 speakers. The DPHARM agenda is carefully curated with the guidance of more than 70 advisors representing pharmaceutical senior clinical operation executives, patient advocacy, clinical sites, innovative tech and service companies, academia and regulatory authorities.

DPHARM will be preceded by the Partnerships with Sites Summit, September 14, 2026. To learn more, visit www.partnershipswithsites.com/

For the full DPHARM agenda, visit www.DPHARMconference.com.

About DPHARM:
DPHARM®: Disruptive Innovations to Modernize Clinical Research offers an unparalleled opportunity to hear senior clinical operations executives and innovative thought leaders report on innovations that are modernizing clinical trials and reducing patient burden. The concept of DPHARM was founded by Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson, who continue to play a key role on the steering committee to deliver a highly relevant and engaging program. DPHARM takes place September 15-16 at the Sheraton Boston Hotel in Boston, MA.

About Questex:
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Allyson Adams
DPHARM
aadams@questex.com         

The 48th Annual NYU International Hospitality Investment Forum Attracted Over 700 Investors Representing $723B in Hotel Assets Under Management to Drive Deal-Making

NYU IHIF 2027 Takes Place June 6-8 at the Marriott Marquis in New York

NEW YORK, June 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Earlier this month at the 48th annual NYU International Hospitality Investment Forum (NYU IHIF), operated by Questex, a leading information services and event company, in partnership with the NYU School of Professional Studies (NYU SPS) and its Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality, top industry executives, from CEOs of hotel brands to various investment and real estate executives, discussed the latest trends, economic influences and projections. NYU IHIF hosted more than 2,500 attendees, 28% of which were equity investors, representing more than $723B in hotel assets under management. Thirty-three percent of investor attendees attended the conference for the first time, demonstrating the increasing appeal of hospitality as an investment class. 

The annual conference agenda delivered unparalleled thought leadership through keynotes, general sessions, workshops and networking events. Nearly 150 industry executives delivered unparalleled thought leadership through panels, fireside chats, case study presentations and roundtable discussions.

With the theme “Sharpening the Edge,” NYU IHIF brought the industry together to examine the forces shaping the market with curated tracks and deep content for three days of networking, insights and deal-making.

The opening keynote address was delivered by Anthony Scaramucci, Founder and Managing Partner, SkyBridge and Founder and Chairman, SALT. His address “Unbreakable Resilience: An Insider’s Perspective on Power, Communications and Business” provided an insider’s view into how geopolitical forces and societal dynamics are shaping today’s U.S. markets. He also explored what resilience truly means for leaders and businesses navigating volatility and uncertainty. 

The Global Hospitality CEO Panel: “The View from the Boardroom” focused on market dynamics, emerging trends and strategies for adapting to uncertainty. The leaders of the world’s major hospitality companies – Christopher J. Nassetta, President and CEO, Hilton Worldwide; Mark Hoplamazian, President and CEO, Hyatt; Geoff Ballotti, President and CEO, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts; Elie Maalouf, CEO, IHG Hotels and Resorts; and Sebastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO, Accor shared insights. The session was moderated by Sara Eisen, Anchor, CNBC.

Danny Meyer, Founder and Executive Chairman, Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) received the Jonathan Tisch Active Citizenship Award, which celebrates the positive impact and achievements of a leader in the hospitality industry. Meyer also participated in a Fireside Chat with Tisch, covering the state of the industry and his philanthropy.

Additionally, the Hilton Cleveland Downtown, CHMWarnick received the HAMA U.S. Asset Management Achievement Award. 

Other prominent leaders presented at NYU IHIF:

  • David Pepper, Chief Development Officer, Choice Hotels
  • Satya Anand, Group President U.S., Canada and Latin America, Marriott International
  • Claire Wallace, SVP Acquisitions and Development, Pyramid Global Hospitality
  • Omer Acar, CEO Raffles and Fairmont, Accor
  • Jonathan Halkyard, Chief Financial Officer, MGM Resorts International
  • Tim Abram, Managing Director and Global Co Head of Hotels, Starwood Capital Group
  • Ben Brunt, Managing Principal and Chief Investment Officer, Noble Investment Group
  • Scott Ellman, Managing Director, Eastdil Secured
  • Michael Mohapp, Partner, KSL Capital Partners
  • Steen Petri, Managing Director Investments, HEI Hotels and Resorts
  • Tiffany Cooper, Head of Development Americas, Mandarin Oriental
  • Andrea Grigg, Global Head of Hotel Asset Management, CBRE Hotels

Additionally, NYU IHIF hosted the second edition of BxR – Brand x Residential, which was dedicated entirely to investment, development and strategy within branded residences.

NYU IHIF attendees had the opportunity to meet with over 70 leading companies such as Accor, Hilton, Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Visit Portugal, BWH Hotels, MEWS and Booking.com introducing the latest ventures, investments and innovations redefining guest experiences, operational efficiency and deal structures.

Select industry announcements made around IHIF EMEA:

  • Hilton announced the launch of a new brand, Undergraduate by Hilton, an upper-midscale product developed to serve a broader range of college and university markets. [Read the news here.]
  • CoStar and Tourism Economics upgrade their U.S. hotel performance outlook and now anticipates RevPAR will increase 2.8% year over year for full-year 2026. [Read the news here.]
  • MGM Resorts International confirms receipt of acquisition proposal from People Incorporated. [Read the news here.]

“The NYU International Hospitality Investment Forum offered insights from leaders actively deploying capital and operating assets in today’s market. It was the place to be for those looking to stay sharp and close deals. Every moment of the conference was designed to move the conversations forward, whether it was on stages, in meeting rooms or during receptions,” said Alexi Khajavi, Group President, Living & Hospitality, Questex.

“NYU IHIF is where the most influential voices in hospitality converge. It’s where investors and decision-makers have real conversations, gain access to market-moving insights and build relationships. It’s where the industry set its agenda for the year ahead,” added Nicolas Graf, Associate Dean of the Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality.

A share of proceeds from the event will help fund student scholarships at the NYU SPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality and further support the program’s mission of educating and preparing future leaders and innovators for careers in global hospitality management, travel, and tourism.

Upcoming International Hospitality Investment Forums
IHIF Asia will take place in September 16-18, 2026 in Hong Kong. Register to attend here. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Andrew Walmsley at awalmsley@questex.com.

IHIF EMEA will take place May 10-12, 2027 in Germany. Click here for sponsorship opportunities.

NYU IHIF 2027 takes place June 6-8 at the Marriott Marquis in New York. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Robert Britt at rbritt@questex.com.

Stay connected with the NYU IHIF on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.

About Questex
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

About the NYU SPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality
The NYU SPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality, now celebrating nearly 30 years of academic excellence, is a leading center for the study of hospitality, travel, and tourism. Founded in 1995, the Tisch Center was established in response to the growing need for hospitality and tourism undergraduate and graduate education. Its cutting-edge curricula attract bright, motivated students who seek to become leaders in their fields. The Tisch Center recently launched the Hospitality Innovation Hub (HI Hub), which will foster entrepreneurship and creative solutions for the industries it serves. For more information, visit sps.nyu.edu/tisch.

Media Contacts
Ahna Holloran
NYU IHIF
aholloran@questex.com

Meryl Franzman
NYU IHIF
mfranzman@questex.com

Questex’s StreamTV Show Announces the 2026 StreamTV Awards Winners

DENVER, June 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s StreamTV Show, the streaming industry’s fastest-growing event, today announces the winners of the 2026 StreamTV Awards – the ultimate celebration of the visionaries and trailblazers transforming the streaming industry. StreamTV Show takes place June 16-19 in Denver, Colorado.

Kevin Gray, Founder of StreamTV Show and VP, Questex said, “This year’s competition reached a new level of excitement, with winners earning recognition for breakthrough innovation, exceptional audience engagement, strategic vision, impressive revenue growth and transformative partnerships. Congratulations to the leaders and companies driving the next chapter of the streaming industry.”

The StreamTV Awards Winners

  • Advertising Executive of the Year: Lauren Benedict, VP, Global Ad Sales and Partnerships, Roku
  • Content Partnerships Executive of the Year – Acquisition: Anthony Layser, Executive Director, Content Acquisitions & Programming Strategy, Xumo
  • Content Partnerships Executive of the Year – Distribution: Stefan Van Engen, VP, Content Partnership, Acquisition, Distribution & Experience, Xumo
  • Emerging Leaders Class of 2026:
    • Chelsea Duong, Xumo
    • Elizabeth Lehrer, Pluto TV
    • Eric Steigelfest, PurePlay AI
    • Felipe Saltz, NBA
    • Kate Dery, AMC Global Media
    • Lady Learned, Xumo
    • Mike Gould, Cineflix Rights
    • Murphy VandeMotter, Madhive
  • FAST Channel of the Year: F1 channel by C15 Studio
  • Innovation in Advertising: Club Canela by Canela Media
  • Innovation in Content Delivery & Distribution: MKIO Multiview with Comcast’s “Create your own Multiview” by Mediakind & Comcast
  • Innovation in Monetization: The Digital Vending Machine® from Bango
  • Innovation in User Experience: The Chosen App Experience from Come and See Foundation by Robosoft Technologies
  • Marketing Campaign of the Year: “The Holidays Are Brutal” by Pluto TV
  • StreamTV Impact Award: Roku
  • Streaming Platform of the Year: Roku
  • Technology Executive of the Year:  Alex Groysman, VP of Ad Product Development, Spectrum Reach
  • Trailblazer Award: Vince Torres, Chief Marketing Officer, DIRECTV

Where the Streaming Industry Comes Together
StreamTV Show 2026 will bring together thousands of executives across streaming, advertising, sports, content, platforms, and technology for four days of strategy, networking, and business-driving conversations shaping the future of media. StreamTV Show takes place June 16-19 in Denver, Colorado.

Attendee Registration: Register here.
Press registration: Available here.
Interested in sponsoring or exhibiting? Contact our sales team.

Stay in the loop: Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

About The StreamTV Show
StreamTV Show isn’t just a market and expo – it’s a community! From insightful sessions to lively networking events, this is where deals get made, partnerships are forged, and the future of streaming is shaped.

Produced and managed by Questex, StreamTV is widely known as the streaming industry’s largest annual event. For more information, visit https://www.streamtvshow.com. The StreamTV Show is supported by the event’s official publication, StreamTV Insider, the streaming TV industry’s daily monitor. For more information, visit https://www.streamtvinsider.com.

About Questex
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Charlene Soucy
StreamTV Show
csoucy@questex.com

Questex’s LDI Announces 2027 Dates, Moves to New Orleans in October

Community feedback drives timing and location shift for the live events and entertainment technology industry’s leading trade show

NEW YORK, June 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s LDI, the leading event for the live design, entertainment technology, and experiential production community, today announces its 2027 edition will take place October 15-21, 2027 (Expo dates: October 19-21) at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans.

LDI 2027 in New Orleans

The move reflects direct feedback from the people who make LDI what it is: exhibitors who invest in the show year after year, attendees who rely on it to discover new ideas and build relationships, sponsors and partners who help shape the experience, and the broader network of professionals who come together around this industry. For many in live events and entertainment technology, LDI is more than a date on the calendar; it is a place to reconnect with peers, strengthen partnerships, share hard-earned knowledge, and celebrate the creativity and innovation that power this community. By moving to October and relocating to New Orleans, LDI is responding with a format and setting designed to better support participation, planning, and long-term growth while preserving the sense of connection that has always been at the heart of the event.

“LDI has always been built around the needs of this community, and this decision is a direct reflection of that,” said Marian Sandberg, Vice President/Brand Leader, LDI. “We heard clearly from exhibitors and attendees that timing was one of the biggest barriers to connecting effectively and doing business. Moving LDI to New Orleans in October gives us the opportunity to better serve the industry, create a stronger experience for our customers, and position the show for long-term success.”

“LDI is about spectacle in every form — staging, broadcast, installation, immersive, placemaking… and now the show is bringing all of it to an age-old crossroads of sound and spirit, a city that already knows how to throw a room into rapture. Our whole job is to move the soul and shake the booties too. New Orleans is a city that invented both as an art form. What a crazy crucible for experience!,” said Bob Bonniol, Chief Innovation Officer and Designer, ACT Entertainment.

“LDI truly listened and responded to our concerns, which makes a real difference. We’re excited about the direction and look forward to being part of a strong 2027 show in New Orleans,” added Eric Loader, Elation Professional.

“As a manufacturer that enjoys using the live audience and attendees of LDI to debut our latest lighting innovations, the new dates will give us a better opportunity to bring new products to the market,” said Lorienn Cochenour, ROBE Lighting.

The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center offers the scale, infrastructure, and accessibility needed to support LDI’s exhibit hall, education, networking, and live event experiences. New Orleans boasts robust air transportation access, a well-established convention ecosystem, and a cultural energy that aligns naturally with the creative spirit of the LDI audience.

“This move is about listening and responding in a meaningful way,” said Jessi Cybulski, Show Director, LDI. “Our community told us they wanted a show date that worked better for their teams, budgets, and planning cycles. October in New Orleans gives us the ability to meet those needs while also delivering the kind of dynamic, high-value experience people expect from LDI.”

For nearly four decades, LDI has served as a gathering place for the entertainment technology industry, a community where professionals across live events, theatrical and concert production, touring, projection, AV, broadcast, houses of worship, themed entertainment, and immersive experiences come together not just to do business, but to learn from one another and move the industry forward. It has long been a place where new ideas are introduced, careers and partnerships are built, and the relationships that sustain this business are strengthened face to face. The 2027 event will continue that legacy while opening the door to a refreshed attendee and exhibitor experience in one of the country’s premier event cities.

“New Orleans gives us a compelling platform for the next chapter of LDI,” said Kelly Turner, Director of Sales, LDI. “I’m excited for our customers to experience LDI in a new location. It offers the right combination of accessibility, hospitality, and energy, and it creates new opportunities for how we bring the community together. We’re continuing to build an event that keeps everything people value about LDI while making it even more relevant and engaging for the future.”

Additional details on LDI 2027 dates, programming, exhibitor opportunities, and attendee information will be announced in the coming months.

LDI 2026 in Las Vegas

The 2026 edition of LDI will take place December 2-8 (Expo dates: December 6-8) at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas. The event will bring together thousands of industry professionals for an immersive learning experience spanning every facet of live production – from concert touring and stage management to pro audio, lighting, projection, video, XR, immersive technologies, DJ/VJ innovation, and beyond. Get updates here. For sponsorship or exhibit inquiries, contact Kelly Turner at kturner@questex.com.

About Live Design International (LDI)
Established in 1988, Live Design International (LDI) is built on a 38-year history as the essential trade show and conference for global live design professionals. Attendees come to LDI to see the latest gear and entertainment technology in action, covering audio, lighting, projection, video, staging, special effects, and XR. It is also a great opportunity to refresh knowledge and professional training, in addition to networking and finding inspiration from colleagues, manufacturers, and distributors at the vanguard of entertainment technology. For more information, visit https://www.ldishow.com/.

About Questex
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Charlene Soucy
Head of Marketing
LDI
csoucy@questex.com                

Questex’s Broadband Nation Expo Expands with the Co-Located Data Center Excellence Summit to Scale the Infrastructure Behind the AI Economy

Summit Takes Place November 18-19 in New Orleans, LA

NEW ORLEANS, June 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Broadband Nation Expo today announces the launch of the co-located Data Center Excellence Summit, convening industry leaders to scale the infrastructure behind the AI economy. The Summit is produced in partnership with Fierce Network and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and takes place November 18-19 at the Hilton Riverside New Orleans in New Orleans, LA.

The two-day Summit offers:

  • Keynote Address entitled “The Infrastructure Behind the AI Economy”
  • Fireside Chat entitled “Can Infrastructure Keep Up with AI? The Race for Connectivity”
  • Six Data Center Excellence Summit Track Sessions
    • Designing for AI: Next-Generation Data Center Architectures
    • Securing the Data Center: From Cyber to Physical Infrastructure
    • Power. Land. Capital. Talent. — What Will Limit Data Center Growth?
    • Aligning Policy with Data Center Growth
    • Community Impact: Power, Water, and Public Acceptance
    • Global Competition and the Future of Digital Infrastructure

Additional sessions and speakers will be announced in the coming months.

Plus, the Summit will host a Data Center Pavilion on the show floor.

The Data Center Excellence Summit will also include Data Center Connect, a hosted buyer program connecting data center executives with vendors who can help support their growth goals.

Registration for the Data Center Excellence Summit also includes access to Broadband Nation Expo, providing attendees with even greater opportunities to connect with industry leaders, attend educational sessions, and participate in networking receptions and events.

“The addition of a data center focused Summit is a natural evolution for our event,” said David Drain, Show Director, Broadband Nation Expo. “By offering our audience this additional education, exploration of solutions and networking opportunities, we are helping attendees create ideas, partnerships and innovations faster than before.”

TIA’s Data Center Excellence Initiative

AI, cloud computing, and digital services are driving unprecedented growth in global data center infrastructure. Meeting demand by 2030 will require an estimated $6.7T in capital investment, underscoring the need for scalable, consistent quality. To address this, TIA is advancing the development of the Data Center Excellence initiative (DCE 9000), an industry-led initiative to unify operators, suppliers, and ecosystem partners around common quality frameworks that improve performance, reduce duplicative audits, and strengthen the data center supply chain.

“Bringing the Data Center Excellence Summit alongside Broadband Nation Expo reflects the convergence we’re seeing across digital infrastructure. As AI and data demands accelerate, the industry needs a stronger focus on quality, resilience, and trusted supply chains. This Summit creates a shared forum for operators, suppliers, and policymakers to align on the standards and best practices required to scale with confidence,” said David Stehlin, CEO, TIA.

The Data Center Excellence Summit call for speakers is now open through July 31. Click here for more information.

For additional information on the Data Center Excellence Summit and to register, visit BroadbandNationExpo.com/DataCenterSummit.

Stay connected with the latest updates by following Broadband Nation Expo on LinkedIn and X.

Partnership opportunities for Broadband Nation Expo and Data Center Excellence Summit can be explored by contacting Scott Gruntorad at sgruntorad@questex.com.

About Broadband Nation Expo
Broadband Nation Expo is the nation’s largest meeting ground for the U.S. broadband, digital infrastructure, and connectivity ecosystem– bringing together the decision-makers building, funding, deploying, and operating the networks that will power America’s future. Broadband Nation Expo takes place November 18-20 in New Orleans, LA.

About TIA
The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) advances trusted digital infrastructure for a connected world. Representing more than 400 companies globally, TIA brings industry and government together through standards development, government advocacy, certifications, and industry programs to support resilient, innovative infrastructure. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), TIA plays a central role in shaping the future of global digital infrastructure.

About Questex
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Katie Williams
Broadband Nation Expo
kwilliams@questex.com

The Southeast’s Largest Skincare, Spa & Wellness Event, Produced by Questex, Moves to Fort Lauderdale with Expanded Programming and a Bold New Vision

IECSC Florida (now Be+Well | Beauty and Wellness Show) brings 80+ education sessions, top industry speakers, and a new Nail & Makeup Competition to the Broward County Convention Center, August 30-31

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., June 11, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Registration is officially open for International Esthetic, Cosmetic & Spa Conference (IECSC) Florida, now Questex’s Be+Well | Beauty and Wellness Show Florida. The Southeast’s largest and most trusted skincare, spa, and wellness event is set to take place August 30-31 at its brand-new location: the Fort Lauderdale Broward County Convention Center, marking a landmark moment for the event.

“For decades, industry professionals have relied on IECSC to perfect their craft, discover breakthrough innovations, learn from world-class masters, and network with their community,” said Elizabeth Fantetti Trevorrow, Partnership & Event Director, Questex’s Wellness Group. “The rebranding to Be+Well reflects the shifting landscape of the industry, evolving to meet the growing demand for holistic, cross-category wellness experiences.”

Attendees can expect the same legendary quality and experience they have trusted for years, but with expanded opportunities designed to elevate their businesses in a rapidly changing market.

Superstar Speakers + Top-Tier Education

This year’s show features a diverse and dynamic lineup of leaders from the spa and wellness industries, including 10 speakers making their Be+Well Florida debut. Highlights include:

  • Savanna Boda – Licensed Esthetician | Med Spa Owner | Social media influencer, Savanna Boda Aesthetics
  • Nerida Joy – Renowned Esthetician and One of the Country’s Top Facialists
  • Terrance Bonner – Spa & Wellness Expert and Founder of The Bonner Institute
  • Jane Pham – CEO and Founder of Lady Peng
  • George Scandalis – Founder and Owner of The Skin Guy, Inc.

This year’s Be+Well Florida Show delivers an unparalleled lineup of 80+ classes, covering a full spectrum of education across 7 tracks including esthetics, business, skincare science, wellness integration, and marketing. The program emphasizes practical strategies, hands-on learning, and transformative client care. These classes are offered for an additional fee.

Session highlights include:

  • Aging Clients, Expanding Income: The Untapped Revenue Market, Alison O’Neil
  • Brow Lamination That Lasts: Safe Techniques for Consistent, Profitable Results, Kimberly Morfin
  • PCOS, PMS & Perimenopause: What Hormonal Imbalance Looks Like on the Skin, Jordan Hogan
  • Keep More, Owe Less: The Five Easy Financial Fixes That Took Me From 6 to 7 Figures, Jane Pham
  • Modern Facial Rejuvenation: A Practical Guide to Esthetic Devices, Dr. Erin Madigan-Fleck
  • Social Media That Converts: A Workshop for Service-Based Beauty Businesses, Kirsten Goetzelman

First-Ever Nail & Makeup Competition Powered by Global Talent Beauty Cup

  • Be+Well Florida will welcome up to 150 nail and makeup artists to showcase their precision, creativity, and world-class nail artistry.

Hundreds of Premier Beauty & Wellness Exhibitors

  • Discover, experience, and purchase from the top industry brands you need to run a skincare or spa business including: Celluma Light Therapy, Circadia, Cosgram, Elleebana, Eminence Organic Skin Care, FarmHouse Fresh, Jovê, Silhouet-Tone USA, Procell Therapies, Repechage, The HydraFacial Company, Zemits, Lira Clinical, LightStim and many more! Click here for the full list of Be+Well Florida exhibitors. Plus, over 100 Product-Focused Education Sessions included free with an admission pass.

Attendees may register to attend the Show by clicking here.

Exhibit Hall passes include all free Product-Focused Education at Be+Well Florida.

Press may apply for a media pass here.

SHOW HOURS:

Sunday, August 30 10:00am – 5:00pm and Monday August 31 10:00am – 4:00pm

NEW LOCATION:
Ft. Lauderdale Broward County Convention Center, 1950 Eisenhower Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

SHOW INFO:

For more information on visit Be+Well Show Florida.

Stay connected on LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Be+Well

Be+Well is the new umbrella brand bringing together legendary industry events and media serving hair, skin, and body professionals in the beauty, spa, wellness, and fitness industry with shows located in New York, Las Vegas, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Be+Well Media and Events includes Be+Well | Beauty and Wellness Show (the new home of The International Beauty Show and International Esthetics, Cosmetics, and Spa Conference), American Salon, American Spa, Spatec, and Sibec, including the former Club Industry events —to create the beauty and wellness industry’s largest event and media platform. For more information on subscribing, attending or advertising, visit www.BeWellMediaandEvents.com.

About QUESTEX
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Amanda Brokaw
Amanda@brokawpr.com
917-238-0204

Questex’s Fierce Biotech Expands Global Footprint, Launches Inaugural Fierce Biotech Event at London Life Sciences Week

One-Day Forum at The Savoy to Unite Global Biotech, Pharma, and Investment Leaders

LONDON, June 10, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex‘s Fierce Biotech is expanding its global footprint. Today it’s launching Fierce Biotech at London Life Sciences Week, a new one-day event taking place on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at The Savoy in London. The event marks Fierce Biotech’s debut in the UK market, bringing its signature brand of high-impact programming to one of the world’s premier life sciences destinations.

Taking place alongside London Life Sciences Week, the forum will convene senior leaders from across the global biotech, pharma, and investment ecosystem for a full day of curated discussions, deal-making, and premium networking. Programming will center on scientific innovation, drug development, and the investment trends shaping the next generation of biotech breakthroughs.

“Fierce Biotech at London Life Sciences Week is a significant milestone for our life sciences portfolio,” said Rhiannon James, President, Life Sciences, Health & Wellness. “This event reflects our commitment to connecting the people and ideas driving the future of biopharma; and there’s no better city than London to do it.”

Designed for biotech executives, investors, and business development leaders, Fierce Biotech at London Life Sciences Week will deliver actionable insights on emerging technologies and strategic opportunities; all within a single, focused forum at one of London’s most iconic venues.

“Watching this agenda come together has been incredibly rewarding,” said James Waldron, Senior Editor, Healthcare & LifeSciences. “The speakers and topics we’re bringing to London represent the conversations that matter most to the biotech community right now; we can’t wait to see it all unfold on stage in November.”

Mark your calendar and stay tuned for more details, including the speaker lineup and complete session details. 

For more information or to register, visit biotechlondon.fiercelifesciences.com.

Interested in sponsorship opportunities? 
Connect with us to explore how your brand can be part of this premier event. 

About Fierce Biotech
Fierce Biotech is the essential resource for biopharma professionals navigating a fast-moving industry. From drug development through the entire product lifecycle; including regulatory approvals, payer negotiations, manufacturing, M&A, and beyond; Fierce Biotech delivers the news, analysis, and data that professionals rely on to understand not just what’s happening, but why it matters. Learn more at fiercebiotech.com.

About Questex
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Matt DeNapoli
Fierce Biotech
mdenapoli@questex.com

Questex’s StreamTV Show Honors Vince Torres, Chief Marketing Officer, DIRECTV as Recipient of the Inaugural StreamTV Trailblazer Award

Awards Ceremony Takes Place at the StreamTV Show on June 17

DENVER, June 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s StreamTV Show, the streaming industry’s fastest-growing event, today announces Vince Torres, Chief Marketing Officer, DIRECTV is being honored with the inaugural StreamTV Trailblazer Award, which honors a visionary streaming executive who has fundamentally shaped the direction of the industry through bold leadership, innovation and measurable impact. This award was created for executives who boldly redefine strategies, unlock new growth opportunities and revolutionize how audiences engage with content.

Kevin Gray, Founder of StreamTV Show and VP, Questex said, “We are thrilled to recognize Vince Torres with the inaugural StreamTV Trailblazer Award. This award was designed for executives like Vince who embody forward-thinking leadership in a rapidly evolving market and inspires peers across the ecosystem. We look forward to celebrating Vince at the StreamTV Show later this month.”

Torres is a marketing executive with more than 25 years of experience driving growth and transformation across the technology, media and telecommunications industries. Torres translates consumer insight into category-defining execution, strengthening DIRECTV’s leadership in live sports and modernizing the viewing experience. Torres has redefined the DIRECTV brand by driving one of the most significant product evolutions in modern pay television. Torres set the strategic direction for DIRECTV’s marketing and product organizations as they introduced DIRECTV Genre Packs®, a new category reshaping how television packages are designed and marketed.

A defining accomplishment for Torres was the marketing organization’s leadership in developing genre-based television offerings rooted in how consumers actually watch TV. This vision came to life with the launch of MySports®, a contract-free sports-focused pack designed to deliver the sports content fans care about most. MySports serves as both a proof point and catalyst, demonstrating that flexible, genre-led packaging could succeed while reinforcing DIRECTV’s authority in live sports.

Torres and his leadership team expanded this consumer-first approach into a broader portfolio with the introduction of five Genre Packs in 2025: MySports, MyEntertainment®, MyNews®, MiEspañol®, and MyKids®. Designed around viewing preferences rather than traditional channel bundles, the packs gave consumers greater flexibility and control, while several also integrated popular streaming services such as ESPN+, HBO Max and Disney+ to deliver a more complete entertainment experience. The industry-first approach challenged decades-old bundling conventions and reflected DIRECTV’s commitment to removing barriers between consumers and the content they value most. DIRECTV remains focused on advancing greater choice, personalization and flexibility while helping shape the next generation of entertainment experiences through data, AI and consumer-led innovation.

Bill Morrow, CEO, DIRECTV added, “Our industry continues to evolve, creating both new opportunities and new challenges. Recognizing early that the explosion of content, platforms, and viewing options was making the entertainment experience more fragmented, Vince became a strong advocate for consumers and guided our marketing and product organizations to reduce the friction and complexity customers face when accessing the programming they value most. His strategic vision and collaborative approach have fostered deeper innovation and alignment across our company, enabling DIRECTV to reimagine how consumers discover and enjoy the content they love through more flexible streaming experiences and packages built around their interests. We are proud of Vince’s accomplishments and thrilled to see him recognized with this well-deserved honor.”

Torres said, “I’m honored to receive the inaugural StreamTV Trailblazer Award on behalf of the entire DIRECTV team. This recognition reflects our shared commitment to challenging the status quo and rethinking how entertainment is delivered for consumers. Our industry has a unique opportunity to move beyond traditional models and create experiences built around choice, flexibility and control. Through strong partnerships across the media and technology ecosystem, we can continue pushing boundaries, accelerate innovation, and unlock new possibilities that help shape the future of entertainment.”

Torres will receive his award during the Big Bash at the StreamTV Show on June 17.

Where the Streaming Industry Comes Together
StreamTV Show 2026 will bring together thousands of executives across streaming, advertising, sports, content, platforms, and technology for four days of strategy, networking, and business-driving conversations shaping the future of media. StreamTV Show takes place June 16-19 in Denver, Colorado.

Attendee Registration: Register here.
Press registration: Available here.
Interested in sponsoring or exhibiting? Contact our sales team.

Stay in the loop: Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

About The StreamTV Show
StreamTV Show isn’t just a market and expo – it’s a community! From insightful sessions to lively networking events, this is where deals get made, partnerships are forged, and the future of streaming is shaped.

Produced and managed by Questex, StreamTV is widely known as the streaming industry’s largest annual event. For more information, visit https://www.streamtvshow.com. The StreamTV Show is supported by the event’s official publication, StreamTV Insider, the streaming TV industry’s daily monitor. For more information, visit https://www.streamtvinsider.com.

About Questex
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Charlene Soucy
StreamTV Show
csoucy@questex.com

Questex’s Fierce Life Sciences Announces the 2026 Partnerships with Sites Summit Agenda

Clinical Trial Experts Convene at One-Day Summit to Discuss Site-Driven Approaches to Boost Enrollment and Retention

NEW YORK, June 08, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Fierce Life Sciences today announces the Partnerships with Sites Summit agenda. The 2nd annual Summit takes place September 14, 2026, at the Sheraton Boston Hotel.

The Summit brings together clinical trial sites, sponsors, and CROs to address the critical challenge in clinical research: improving patient enrollment by focusing on operational realities and partnership strategies that enable scalable, high-performing collaboration across the ecosystem.

“The time is now, as sites face increasing burden, protocols grow more complex, and the demand for trials continues to rise,” said Kate Woda, Senior Director, Partnerships with Sites Summit. “Partnerships with Sites focuses on what sites need to succeed and how to rebuild the ecosystem to support better patient enrollment.”

The Summit features multi-stakeholder participation, including leaders from organizations such as Eli Lilly, Biogen, Boehringer Ingelheim, AstraZeneca, Novartis, BMS, Takeda, Merck, Teva, Keenova, Sanofi and more.

The program addresses:

  • Keynote: Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development on global shifts in the site landscape and implications for sponsors and CROs
  • Diverse site perspectives, addressing what sites need from sponsors and CROs to improve enrollment and retention
  • Redesigning sponsor-site-CRO partnerships to enable scalable, trust-based execution
  • Discussions on early study design and contracting alignment, incorporating site realities to reduce downstream inefficiencies
  • AI in clinical trials, examining where it is delivering value at the site level
  • Trial technology, workflow burden, and operational efficiency at the site level
  • Case studies on practical frameworks on enrollment, startup timelines, and site engagement strategies

Additional speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.

Partnerships with Sites will be followed by DPHARM: Disruptive Innovations to Modernize Clinical Research, taking place September 15–16.

To learn more about Partnerships with Sites and to register to attend, please visit partnershipswithsites.com.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Brandon Pepper at bpepper@questex.com.

About Fierce Life Sciences
Fierce Life Sciences offers a full suite of news, analysis and event education, all in one place. From preclinical research to market and beyond, our team of editors and handpicked experts deliver insights you can source with confidence and events, both virtual and live, that support professional and business growth.

About Questex
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Alaina Schwartz
Partnerships with Sites Summit
aschwartz@questex.com