Celebrating National Hotel Employee Day and Beyond!
September 1 was National Hotel Employee Day, and we thought we would begin the month by looking back at our HALA Stars of the Industry celebration of our nominees and winners-- the people in our industry who really make the magic happen. HALA treasures the opportunity to honor the people who show up every day and shine bright for our guests, our colleagues, and the many cities and communities we serve. As we look back over our 2024 winners, please remember to take note of outstanding employees to nominate for our 2025 HALA Stars of the Industry Awards. We look forward to cheering for them next year.
Melissa Swieca of the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City
Rising Star Award, Sponsored by Laz Parking
Melissa is the embodiment of the rising star, with a career trajectory that’s nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a server in the bistro, she embarked on a journey through the front office and small group sales, culminating in her current role as an Area Sales Manager.
Tracy Hu of JW Marriott Los Angeles LA. LIVE
Housekeeping Award
Tracy is known for her work ethic, her leadership skills, and her constant willingness to help others. Most importantly, she’s always going that extra mile for guests. As a VIP Inspector for the JW Marriott, she’s entrusted to ensure luxury standards of cleanliness and perfection are not only met but exceeded.
Hector Prieto of Hotel Casa Del Mar
Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year, Sponsored by Salary.com, Small or Medium Property
Service is literally in Hector’s DNA: He credits his grandmother, explaining, “I learned from her at a young age how offering kindness and support can bring me and the people around me immense joy. It’s the primary reason I pursued a career in hospitality. Being helpful and hospitable is second nature to me, it is my passion.”
Todd Hulce of Fairmont Century Plaza
Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year, Large Property
Todd stands out is his driving passion to turn moments into memories for his guests and ensure an exceptional guest experience every day in the Fairmont lounge. He always goes above and beyond to ensure each guest he interacts with feels special.
Alexandra Cove of Cara Hotel
Outstanding Manager of the Year, sponsored by Propark, Small or Medium Property
Alexandra started as Front Desk Agent—her first hotel job ever! Worked her way up from there. She makes sure her employees feel heard, supported, and understood, and she goes above and beyond for guests. “She is the foundation and beating heart of Cara Hotel” and an “unshakable force of kindness, joy, and respect for all who enter Cara's doors.”
Jeri Zavala Tovar of Hotel Figueroa
Outstanding Manager of the Year, Large Property
Jeri not only manages the hotel’s finances, but ensures employees are taken care of and have the tools they need to serve guests. She’s always ready to help and to mentor peers, and she loves seeing others succeed.
Javier Cano of The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles and JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE
Outstanding General Manager of the Year
Javier is most known for his human touch. Throughout his career, he’s made it his mission to create genuine connections with employees and guests, to instill a sense of belonging and family. His approachable and warm-hearted spirit exemplifies J.W. Marriott’s famous quote: “If we treat our employees right, they will treat the customers right, and then the customer will come back.”