Once a year members of the Iowa Lodging Association come together to recognize their Stars. These individuals exemplify the spirit of the Iowa lodging industry through exceptional professionalism and service. The Annual Stars of the Industry Awards Program celebration honors these key contributors for their important roles. The Star Awards also provides ILA members from across Iowa an opportunity to network and socialize.
2012 Stars of the Industry Awards Program
This year’s Star Awards Program was held November 4, 2012 at the West Des Moines Marriott.
Congratulations to ILA's 2011 Award Recipients
Americas Lodging Investment scholarship awards
Talia Patton and Jordain Skarphol, both students in Iowa State University’s Department of Apparel, Educational Studies and Hospitality
Department Manager of the Year
Chuck Hughes, Chief Engineer, Country Inn & Suites in West Des Moines
Front of the House Employee of the Year
Mark Krause, Shuttle Driver, Embassy Suites on the River in Des Moines
Sales & Marketing Employee of the Year
Doug Sinclair, Sales & Marketing, Marriott in West Des Moines
Heart of the House Employees of the Year
Adam Clark, Austin Landini, and Zach Kyte, Marriott Hotel & Conference Center in Coralville
Iowa Bed & Breakfast Guild’s Innkeepers of the Year/Iowa Lodging Association Star Award for Excellence
Mark Ruggeberg and Bob Brooks, owners of the Brown Street Inn Bed & Breakfast in Iowa City
Community Services of the Year
West Des Moines Marriott
Friend of Iowa Lodging Association
Erin Wall, Marketing Director, Gateway Hotel & Conference Center in Ames
Property of the Year
Chase Suite Hotel in Clive
Hotelier of the Year
Terry McLane, General Manager, Des Moines Marriott
Star Awards Nominations
Members can nominate individuals for Star Awards in six categories:
- Front of the House
- Heart of the House
- Community Service Award
- Department Manager of the Year
- Sales & Marketing Employee of the Year
- Hotelier of the Year
An outstanding hotel is honored as Property of the Year.
For details on nominating, download the 2011 nomination form. The 2012 form will be uploaded as soon as it becomes available.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Interested in sponsoring the 2012 Star Awards? A range of great opportunities are available. View the 2011 Star Awards Sponsor Form. The 2012 form will be uploaded as soon as it becomes available.