Stars in Arizona tourism

The Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association (AzLTA) awarded valued people in tourism and touched on its forthcoming education and employment initiative at its annual Stars of the Industry event at the Arizona Biltmore.  

AzLTA president and CEO Kim Sabow told guests, “Each of you here today has a vital impact. You are responsible for countless smiles, for lasting memories and for life changing experiences that visitors from around the world share.”

She added, “All of that results in more new desks, more new visitors and buzz about Arizona that creates new jobs and supports the overall health of the hotel, resort, sports, travel and tourism industry.”

Sabow also told guests to stay tuned for news about a partnership with the American Hotel and Lodging Association, National Restaurant Association and Arizona’s workforce leadership that will lead an education and employment initiative.

“And we will soon be announcing a new initiative to benefit even more members of each of your teams across the state,” Sabow said.

Guest Relations Award

Guest Relations: LionHeart Security Services

Guest Relations:  Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Employee of the Year Award

Maintenance: Steve Otis, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale

Guest Services: Daniela Cunningham, Hilton Phoenix/Mesa

Guest Services: Bradford Simpson, Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix

Sales & Catering: Janesta Dennis, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Food & Beverage: Esther Sumba, Canyon Ranch Tucson

Engineering: Aaron Kovara, Arizona Grand Resort & Spa

Tourism: Jessica Young, Flagstaff Convention & Visitors Bureau

Outstanding Employee of the Year: Francisco Toscano, The Scott Resort & Spa

Specialty Award

Special Event (Ongoing): Hotel Valley Ho, Chefs + Farmers Market Series

Community Service: Renaissance Glendale Hotel & Spa

Good Earth Keeping: Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort

Special Event (One-Time): Canyon Ranch Tucson, Women’s Health & Wellness Summit

Manager of the Year Award

Front of the House: Andre Nicholson, Hotel Valley Ho

Front of the House: Andrea Sarante, Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel

Heart of the House: Ken Alward, Hilton Tucson East

Heart of the House: Sarah Boyd, The Wigwam

Outstanding Lodging: Sandra Sandoval, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale

Outstanding Tourism Manager: Linda Yuhas, Arizona Office of Tourism

Sierra Ciaramella

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