This new award honors an exemplary lodging employee under age 30 who has demonstrated superior professional dedication, leadership, and a fresh perspective to their job at an AH&LA member company.  This individual should illustrate “out of the box” thinking in their professional and personal life, and dedication to the industry by actively participating in association, community, or industry programs. Award recipient should also be actively involved in community service in either the local or national arena.

The Stevan Porter Emerging Hospitality Leader of the Year Award honors the accomplishments of Stevan Porter, former president of the Americas for the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), and recognize the same level of enthusiasm and dedication to hospitality in young lodging employees under age 30. 

The first award designated during the 2009 Stars of the Industry Awards ceremony on June 24, to Randall Williams, area general manager of the Roberts Hotel Group.  Williams is also actively involved with AH&LA's Under 30 Council, Multiculctural & Diversty Advisory Council, and serves on various industy advisory boards.  Click here for more information on Randall and other employee winners.

The national award was organized in conjunction with the association’s launch of the Under 30 Gateway, the new membership category dedicated to providing hospitality professionals under age 30 with tailored professional development and networking resources.  Gateway membership is free to any employees of AH&LA member organizations.  Click here for more information.