CHTA Industry Awards

The CHTA Industry Awards are the highest honor CHTA bestows upon its membership. These awards recognize excellence in the Caribbean hospitality and tourism industry, showcasing individuals that have demonstrated superior achievement.

Caribbean Hotelier of the Year
Simon Suarez, Grupo PuntaCana

Respected Caribbean hotelier Simón Suárez, Vice President of Institutional Relations and Projects of Grupo Puntacana in the Dominican Republic, accepted the region’s premier hospitality award in front of his colleagues, friends and family, while reminding delegates in attendance to “embrace unity, diversity and ingenuity” in the Caribbean.

Caribbean Allied of the Year
Edward “Eddie” Weitz, CMHS, Edward Weitz, Inc

Eddie Weitz has provided draperies and bedspread solutions to hotel properties throughout the Caribbean and been a long-standing CHTA member for many years. He is known for his humor and absolute belief in young Caribbean people. He has also been a great supporter of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Education Foundation.

Caribbean Association Executive of the Year
Lisa Hamilton, US Virgin Islands Hotel & Tourism Association

Ms. Hamilton has served on the Board of the USVI Hotel & Tourism Association since 2004, is a current executive committee board member of CHTA and has served as President of CSHAE. Additionally, she has served as President of SKAL International and is currently serving on the boards of the University of the Virgin Islands CELL (Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning) and My Brother’s Workshop.

Caribbean Supervisor of the Year
Marcia Rhoden-Morris, Executive Housekeeper, The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel

Ms. Rhoden-Morris epitomizes the many qualities it takes to be recognized as an industry leader. She is a natural lead and motivator, and is held in the highest regard by colleagues, coworkers and clients alike, as can be evidenced by the kind of compliment she receives from her team members.

Caribbean Employee of the Year
Obrian Forde, Jus’ Sail Ltd.

O’Brian, First Mate aboard Good Expectation, came through the Jus’ Sail youth training program in 2013 and has proven himself to be a passionate sailor, with great attention to detail, an infectious laugh, great personality and a great representative of what a true Lucian sailor.

CLICK HERE to view a gallery of images of the award recipients.