The AHLA Foundation hosted its sixth-annual Night of a Thousand Stars gala honoring leaders in the hotel and lodging industry—including property-level talent who embody the spirit of hospitality. The event raised nearly $1 million to support foundation initiatives aimed at strengthening the industry’s workforce and included the Stars of the Industry Awards, commemorating winners for their service to the industry.
“The Night of a Thousand Stars Gala brings our entire industry together to celebrate the work and dedication of the unsung heroes of hospitality—the ones at the heart of our industry,” said Anna Blue, president, AHLA Foundation.
As part of the celebration, the foundation introduced the Scholar of the Year Award to recognize outstanding achievement by a hospitality student and demonstrate its commitment to recruiting the next generation of hospitality industry talent. The foundation also shared the success of Camryn Willis, an AHLA Foundation scholarship recipient.
During the event, AHLA honored Mark Hoplamazian, Hyatt president/CEO, with the third-annual Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award for his transformative and empathetic leadership.
“Mark has championed countless initiatives that raise the bar in our industry, with his impact extending beyond the boardroom and into his local community,” said Chip Rogers, president/CEO, AHLA. “In honoring Mark with the Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award, we celebrate a leader whose contributions transcend corporate success and echo in the lives of those he touches throughout the community.”
AHLA’s 2024 Stars of the Industry winners:
North Star Award Winner:
- Colby Bracy, director, HR, The Nonantum Resort
North Star Award Finalists:
- Alfonso Rauda-Serrano, chief engineer, Valley River Inn Eugene
- Bonnie Sager, GM, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hazelton
AHLA Foundation ForWard: Paving the Way Award
- Lina Patel, director, strategic franchise initiative, Red Roof Franchising
Stevan Porter Emerging Hospitality Leader of the Year
- Adrian Adriano III, director, premium brands, Marriott International
Foundation Scholar of the Year
- Olivia Cannella, hospitality senior, Michigan State University
