
Event Chair
Stacy Failing, CSEP, CMP, Schaffer
With over three decades of experience in the special events industry, Stacy L. Failing is a nationally recognized leader in event production, sales, and catering management. From high-profile corporate galas and celebrity chef collaborations to large-scale international festivals, Stacy has built a distinguished career delivering world-class experiences with strategic vision and creative precision.
Stacy drives the creation and execution of complex, large-scale productions with a commitment to excellence and profitability. Her track record includes managing multimillion-dollar budgets, developing high-performing teams, and leading initiatives that have consistently increased client satisfaction and revenue growth.
Stacy’s prior roles include Special Events Manager for the celebrated Border Grill brand, Catering Director at Wolfgang Puck Catering at Sony Pictures Studios, and Event Producer for global festivals such as the Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival, where she oversaw operations for over 3,000 international guests and a $2.7 million budget.
A Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP) and Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), Stacy is also a respected industry educator and speaker, with engagements at top institutions including San Diego State University, the University of San Diego, and UC San Diego. Her leadership has extended to board positions with ISES (now ILEA), where she served as San Diego Chapter President and Western Regional VP.
Known for her operational insight, creative flair, and ability to elevate every client experience, Stacy continues to shape the future of the event industry with passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Stacy is an animal rescuer and advocate often fostering litters of kittens. For fun you will see her at concerts, movies, antiquing, swap meets, dog beach, and shopping at her favorite boutiques. As a child she was certain she would be either a PSA Flight Attendant or Model but alas only ever reached the height of 5’2”. She is a true Angelino who grew up in the Bay Area and came back down to So Cal in the 90’s and is here to stay.