2026 OHLA Annual Conference & Gala
The 2026 OHLA Annual Conference & Gala brings Ohio’s lodging professionals together for two days of learning, networking, and celebration. With hoteliers, staff, vendors, educators, and aspiring professionals from across the state in attendance, the conference offers a dynamic mix of education, industry insights, and connection at the Hilton Columbus at Easton.
This year’s conference, “Navigating the Horizon: Shaping Tomorrow Together,” will give attendees a look at the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of hospitality. From industry updates and leadership strategies to timely conversations on operations and the guest experience, the agenda is designed to provide fresh perspectives and actionable insights.
A key feature is the Allied Network Tradeshow, where attendees can explore new products and services, connect with top vendors, and discover tools that can help boost profitability.
A meaningful component of the conference is continued support for future hospitality professionals through the Ohio Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation (OHLEF). The 2026 Silent Auction will help support scholarships for individuals pursuing careers in the lodging industry.
The 2026 Conference offers a broad range of relevant content, from leadership and industry updates to conversations on operations and the guest experience. Attendees will gain fresh perspectives and actionable insights they can take back to their properties.
Featured speaker James Robilotta, CSP, will present “Choosing to Care: How Curiosity Creates Community,” exploring how curiosity can strengthen connections, build community, and create a more engaged workplace.
The conference will also feature the Ohio Stars of the Industry Gala, honoring the outstanding individuals and teams making Ohio lodging shine, along with the Allied Network Tradeshow, where attendees can connect with vendors and discover products and services to support their businesses.
| Thank you to our 5-Diamond Sponsor! |
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Congratulations to our 2025 Ohio Stars recipients!
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HotelPro SEL Housekeeper of the Year ★ Gloria Decena, Aloft Cleveland Beachwood |
HotelPro Full Service Housekeeper of the Year ★ Ismunadi Ismanto, InterContinental Suites Hotel Cleveland, an IHG Hotel |
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Attendant/Host of the Year ★ Chad Vinson, Residence Inn by Marriott Dayton Beavercreek |
F&B Team Member of the Year ★ Sheila Roscoe, Hilton Cleveland Downtown |
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Sedgwick SEL Front Desk Associate of the Year ★ Allison Henry, Carlisle Inn of Walnut Creek |
Sedgwick Full Service Front Desk Associate of the Year ★ Samuel-David Adeyemi, Marriott & Residence Inn Columbus OSU |
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ServiceMaster By Neverman Jack of All Trades Award ★ Joaquin Garcia, Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Columbus New Albany |
ServiceMaster By Neverman Supervisor/Manager of the Year ★ Jordan Tidwell, Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel |
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SEL Engineer of the Year ★ Michael Brooker, Courtyard by Marriott Columbus OSU and Hyatt Place Columbus OSU |
Full Service Engineer of the Year ★ Dan Clifford, Hyatt Regency Columbus |
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IGS Energy Service Superstar of the Year ★ Anntoinette Peterson, InterContinental Cleveland Cluster |
HSMAI Ohio Sales Leader of the Year ★ Molly Stevenson, Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus Dublin |
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Allied Member of the Year ★ Mills James |
ULO Property of the Year ★ Sauder Village Heritage Inn |
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BMS CAT SEL General Manager of the Year ★ Marcie Solovyov, Carlisle Inn of Walnut Creek |
BMS CAT Full General Manager of the Year ★ Stephen Stewart, Hyatt Regency Columbus |
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Hospitality Leadership Team of the Year ★ The Westfield Inn |
Charitable & Community Involvement Award ★ The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland |
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Deidra Marshall Heart of Hospitality Volunteer(s) of the Year ★ Holly Hollingsworth, Cogwheel Marketing ★ Bailey Urich, AC Hotel Columbus Downtown |
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