Thank you for celebrating with us! Stay tuned for details about the 2026 Stars of the Industry!
NCRLA honored the best in hospitality on Monday, February 24 at the Stars of the Industry Awards, held at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel in Durham. The event recognized outstanding individuals and organizations across 10 categories for their exceptional contributions to North Carolina’s restaurant and lodging industry.
“We are thrilled to honor the incredible talent, resilience, and innovation of North Carolina’s hospitality professionals,” said Lynn Minges, NCRLA president and CEO. “This group continues to drive our industry forward, even in the face of challenges.”
Among the honorees were Sen. Michael Lazzara and Rep. Mitchell Setzer, named Hospitality Champions for their leadership and advocacy. The evening also highlighted community impact, industry service, and supplier excellence, with recipients recognized for their dedication to strengthening North Carolina’s hospitality sector.
The event was made possible by the generous support of sponsors, including presenting sponsor US Foods, as well as our gracious hosts at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel. To read more about this year’s event, CLICK HERE.
Congratulations to our 2025 Stars!
Ken Conrad Award for Service to the Community
Melissa Bruno Johnston, Tryon Distributing
Griff & June Glover Award for Service to the Association
Burney Jennings, Biscuitville
Hospitality Supplier of the Year
Chris Strickland, ALSCO Uniforms
Hospitality Champions of the Year
Sen. Michael Lazzara (Onslow)
Rep. Mitchell Setzer (Catawba/Iredell)
Restaurateur of the Year
Matt Kelly, MK Hospitality, Owner
Lodging Operator of the Year
Pete Byers, Summit Hospitality, Regional Director of Operations
Daniel Lotz, Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, General Manager
Lodging Manager of the Year
Mijan Sarwar, Sheraton Four Seasons GBO/Koury, Director of Rooms
Bernadette Munoz-Atwater, Courtyard by Marriott Raleigh Cary/CMC Hotels, General Manager
Lodging Employee of the Year
Mehdi Boujoud, The Umstead Hotel & Spa, Engineering Technician
Ofeliya Gadzhiyeva, The Ballantyne Hotel, Room Attendant
Restaurant Manager of the Year
Bruce Conyers, Biscuitville, Restaurant Operator, Greensboro
Boone Hollar, Parks Hospitality Group, F&B Assistant Outlets Manager, Asheville
Ruben Gonzalez, Tar Heel Capital (Wendy’s), General Manager, Shelby
Restaurant Employee of the Year
Serena Ortiz, Grandover Resort/Koury, AM Lead Cook
Edgar Aguilar, Charlotte Marriott SouthPark, Banquet Chef
