AVENTURA, FL – October 30, 2024 – The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) South Florida Chapter proudly hosted its 39th Annual Awards Gala, themed “A Night Around the World,” at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. This prestigious event celebrated excellence in hospitality, honoring leaders across Commercial Strategy, Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Management, and recognizing the remarkable contributions of Philip Goldfarb, the 2023 Legend of the Year. Goldfarb, COO of Fontainebleau Development, was recognized for his impact on South Florida’s hospitality industry and his dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders.

The evening was made possible by generous support from distinguished sponsors: Florida Atlantic University Hospitality and Tourism Management College of Business, Florida Solar Partners, Provident Hotels & Resorts, Agilysys, Tambourine, Towne Park, Venuelocity, Murphy O'Brien, Encore, and Smile Photography. Their partnership helped create a memorable event, showcasing the strength and unity within South Florida's hospitality community.

In addition to honoring Philip Goldfarb, the gala celebrated the best of the best across key categories:

• Innovation Award: Robert Levine, ComOps
• President’s Award: Mike Hampton, Florida International University
• Commercial Strategy Team of the Year: Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort
• General Manager / Executive Leader of the Year: Marco Fuentes, Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, Autograph Collection
• Marketing Leader of the Year: Jennifer Strum, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort
• Revenue Leader of the Year: Yamila Ismail, Biltmore Hotel
• Sales Leader of the Year: Jennefer Claesen, Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa

"We are incredibly proud to honor these talented professionals who drive South Florida’s success as a global hospitality destination," said Christina Davis, Co-President of HSMAI South Florida. "The support of our sponsors and the remarkable dedication of our award recipients underscore the resilience and innovation that define our industry."

The gala also awarded the Dr. Peter Ricci Scholarships to exemplary hospitality students from South Florida, supporting the future of the industry and fostering new leaders. 

This year’s Dr. Peter Ricci Scholarship recipients are:

• Maria Martinez – Florida International University
• Victoria Nicora – Florida International University
• Giuseppe Barioli – Florida Atlantic University
• Joyce Kessler – Lynn University
• Kara Otten – Florida Atlantic University

Their awards were celebrated by an audience of distinguished hospitality professionals, marking an important milestone in their educational journeys.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Diane Levine-Benjamin
Executive Director, HSMAI South Florida
Email: hsmaisouthflorida@gmail.com