Back to Starbucks, Back to Us

I’ve been with Starbucks for over 17 years, and if there’s one thing that’s kept me here, it’s the people. The connections we build—with our partners, our customers, and each other—are what make this place feel like home. That’s why Leadership Experience (LE) is so special to me.

I went to my first LE in 2019, in Chicago. I didn’t know what to expect, but from the moment I got to the airport, I was surrounded by partners. We were strangers but instantly connected by the green apron. That first gathering—thousands of us in one space—was overwhelming in the best way. It was the first time I truly felt the scale of commitment to help us grow as people, not just as employees.

LE reminded me that I’m not just a store manager — I’m a partner too. It helped me see how I could show up differently for my team and my community. After LE19, we focused more on building relationships—with each other, with our customers, and with our neighborhood. That mindset carried us through the pandemic, when connection felt more important than ever.

Now, heading into LE25 in Las Vegas, I’m excited to reconnect with old friends, new peers, and the heart of who we are. I’m looking forward to the stories, the coffee tastings, and the shared moments that remind us why we do what we do. I know I’ll come back inspired, with fresh ideas and a renewed sense of purpose.

To any store manager attending for the first time: expect to feel seen. Expect to learn, to laugh, maybe even cry. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of what it means to lead at Starbucks—and how powerful it is when we rise together.

Because at the end of the day, LE isn’t just about leadership. It’s about coming back to who we are. Back to Starbucks. Back to us.