Award Criteria

Winners are selected based on three criteria: active involvement in the industry, their contribution to the industry, and personal/organizational attributes and qualities.

Active Involvement in the Industry

The individual or organization is actively involved in consulting, planning, developing, marketing, managing and/or improving one or more dimensions of the hospitality industry which benefits developers, investors, operators and guests such as:

  • Associations and organizations
  • Lodging establishments
  • Cruise ships
  • Educational institutions
  • Media (trade press)
  • Legal/litigation
  • Entertainment enterprises

Area of Contribution

Their contribution should benefit the hospitality industry in terms of one or more of the following:

  • New product development or re-positioning
  • Training and education
  • Trend-setting model
  • Profitability of the industry
  • Quality assurance
  • Strategic alliances
  • Diversity
  • Market research 

Personal/Organizational Attributes and Qualities

In addition to their contribution, the individual or organization, on a consistent basis possesses certain attributes and adheres to professional standards which are recognized and respected by his/her peers:

  • Display integrity and ethics and use sound judgment.
  • Demonstrate superior leadership.
  • Display a commitment to quality service and professionalism.
  • Be a role model and/or mentor to people wanting to enter or just entering the hospitality industry as well as to career  people  in the industry.
  • Willingly and enthusiastically share his/her commitment to improving and advancing the hospitality industry by writing trade magazine articles as well as attending and speaking at conferences.
  • Actively involved in one or more associations or organizations that promote and support the advancement of the hospitality industry through legislation, education and/or motivation.