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Women in Hospitality AwardsMeet Wisconsin's 2026 Women in Hospitality Award Winners
The Wisconsin Restaurant Association is proud to recognize this year's Women in Hospitality Award recipients—an extraordinary group of professionals whose leadership, innovation, dedication, and service are helping shape the future of Wisconsin's hospitality industry. Representing restaurants, hotels, tourism, education, supplier partners, and more, these women exemplify excellence at every stage of their careers. Selected through a competitive nomination and judging process, they are being honored for the impact they make within their organizations, their communities, and our industry as a whole. We invite you to meet the remarkable women who make up the 2026 class of honorees. |
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The Women in Hospitality Award Winners will be celebrated and recognized at the Women in Hospitality Conference on September 28, 2026 at the Monona Terrace in Madison, WI.
Here’s to the 2026 Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch
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Anne Sayers has transformed the way Wisconsin tells its story to visitors—and in doing so, has created meaningful opportunities for hospitality businesses across the state. As Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, she has led Wisconsin through four consecutive years of record-breaking tourism growth while championing an ambitious vision to make Wisconsin a Top 20 tourism economy. Her leadership extends beyond marketing, fostering collaboration, investing in her team and building partnerships that strengthen restaurants, hotels, attractions and communities alike. Anne's impact is measured not only in visitor numbers, but in the lasting opportunities she creates for Wisconsin hospitality. Anne Sayers Secretary Wisconsin Department of Tourism Madison |
Dana Johnson's hospitality career began with a flexible evening front desk position while raising her young family—a role that quickly became a lifelong passion. Today, as General Manager of Saint Kate—The Arts Hotel, she leads one of Wisconsin's premier hospitality destinations with creativity, vision, and a commitment to excellence. Beyond the hotel's success, Dana is known for investing in others, mentoring emerging professionals, and fostering a culture where people feel supported to grow. Her leadership continues to strengthen Milwaukee's hospitality community while inspiring others to embrace opportunity and pursue meaningful careers in the industry. Dana Johnson General Manager Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel Milwaukee |
Song Xiong-Buck has redefined hospitality by proving its greatest impact is helping people feel welcomed, valued and connected. As Director of Older Adults Program at Milwaukee Community Crossroads, she has transformed senior dining into an experience centered on dignity, inclusion and belonging. Through innovative partnerships with local restaurants, culturally responsive dining opportunities and compassionate leadership, she has strengthened communities while enriching the lives of thousands of older adults throughout Milwaukee County. Song's work reminds us that exceptional hospitality isn't simply about serving meals—it's about creating places where everyone knows they matter. Song Xiong-Buck Director of Older Adults Program Milwaukee Community Crossroads Milwaukee |
Sheri Straka believes leadership is measured by the success of the people around you. During her 19 years with NCG Hospitality, she has advanced from Assistant General Manager to Regional Director of Operations, now supporting ten hotels across four states. Along the way, she has become a trusted mentor, coach and champion for leadership development, helping team members grow into confident leaders through training, operational excellence and genuine encouragement. Sheri's lasting impact extends far beyond the hotels she oversees—it lives on in the people she has inspired, developed and empowered to succeed. Sheri Straka Regional Director of Operations NCG Hospitality Middleton |
Robin Kraszka has built an impressive career by embracing every opportunity to learn, grow and help others succeed. In just over five years, she advanced from Night Auditor to Sales Manager at Hampton Inn & Suites Madison Downtown, earning recognition as one of Raymond Management Company's top-performing sales professionals while helping the hotel achieve back-to-back Hilton Awards of Excellence. Equally committed to her team, Robin has developed training programs, mentored colleagues and fostered a culture where both employees and guests thrive. As her nominator, Andrew Pollard, shared, Robin is "a quiet influencer" whose actions consistently make those around her better. Robin Kraszka Sales Manager Hampton Inn & Suites Madison Downtown | Raymond Management Company Madison |
Amanda Stefl has transformed Timber Hill Winery into an award-winning hospitality destination where exceptional experiences, community connections, and employee development flourish. As owner, she has grown the business into a premier winery and event venue while fostering a workplace culture built on mentorship, opportunity, and support. Amanda's leadership extends beyond her business through nonprofit partnerships, fundraising initiatives, and the expansion of welcoming spaces, including Cervato at the Madison Public Market. Her vision continues to strengthen Wisconsin hospitality by creating destinations where guests, employees, and communities all feel they belong. Amanda Stefl Owner Timber Hill Winery Milton & Madison |
Over more than 20 years, Gesa Hegeman has helped shape Wisconsin hospitality from the dining room to the executive office. Rising through leadership at The Bartolotta Restaurants before becoming HR Director for Marcus Investments, she now supports more than 900 hospitality employees while helping build thriving workplace cultures. Gesa leads with high expectations while ensuring every employee feels respected, heard, and supported. Long after they've worked alongside her, former colleagues continue to draw on the lessons she taught them, making her influence one that continues to shape Wisconsin hospitality every day. Gesa Hegeman HR Director Marcus Investments Milwaukee |
For nearly two decades, Jill Ruffing has demonstrated that hospitality can be a catalyst for stronger communities. As General Manager of 600 EAST Café & Business Center, she has built a welcoming destination while creating meaningful opportunities for others. Through her partnership with the Grand Avenue Club, Jill has helped individuals living with mental health challenges gain workplace experience, confidence and important life skills. A dedicated advocate for Wisconsin's hospitality industry, she serves on the Wisconsin Restaurant Association Board of Directors, participates in the Milwaukee Kitchen Cabinet and has represented restaurant operators before lawmakers at both the state and national levels. Jill Ruffing General Manager 600 EAST Café & Business Center Milwaukee |
Developing future hospitality leaders is at the heart of Krissy Sigmund's leadership. Building her own career from seasonal frontline roles to Vice President of Chula Vista Resort, her experience has given her a broad perspective that's helped shape every team she leads. Today, she oversees group sales, marketing, and revenue management while helping lead the fourth generation of her family's 75-year hospitality legacy. Passionate about developing people, Krissy is known for mentoring future leaders, creating opportunities for women in hospitality, and advancing the industry through leadership with both the Wisconsin Restaurant Association and Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association. Krissy Sigmund Vice President Chula Vista Resort Wisconsin Dells |
Amanda Newble has built her career on the belief that exceptional hospitality starts with exceptional people. As Head Baker & Kitchen Manager for Eddie Martini Enterprises, she has transformed her bakery program through creativity, innovation and an unwavering commitment to quality—driving a 22% increase in bakery sales and approximately 35% growth in production. Just as meaningful is the culture she helps create, mentoring new team members with patience while fostering kindness, accountability and teamwork. Amanda's resilience, craftsmanship and dedication make her an inspiring leader and one of Wisconsin hospitality's brightest women to watch. Amanda Newble Head Baker & Kitchen Manager Eddie Martini Enterprises Wauwatosa |
Rachel Larson's leadership potential was evident from the very beginning. Hired at just 21 years old, she was promoted to General Manager after only six months—an extraordinary accomplishment that reflected her work ethic and natural ability to lead. After spending four years honing her leadership skills, she advanced to Multi Unit Manager, where she now oversees three Culver's restaurants for Bowe Business Group – Culver's. Rachel is passionate about developing future leaders, building strong teams, and creating opportunities for others to grow. She credits the mentors who invested in her and hopes to inspire more women to pursue leadership careers in hospitality. Rachel Larson Multi Unit Manager Bowe Business Group – Culver's Eau Claire |
Kathryn Alioto has built an exceptional hospitality career by successfully leading hotel openings, rebuilding sales teams, guiding organizational change, and expanding her leadership from a single property to multiple markets and now an entire region. As Regional Director of Sales for Altira Hotels, she challenges outdated leadership norms by proving organizations can achieve exceptional results while creating healthier workplace cultures. Kathryn also mentors future leaders through the Wisconsin Women's Network in Milwaukee and Madison. As her nominator shared, she "leads by example, lifts others up, and creates a workplace where people feel supported, valued, and able to thrive." Kathryn Alioto Regional Director of Sales Altira Hotels Wauwatosa |
Megan Scott has helped bring some of Wisconsin's most celebrated hospitality destinations to life by translating culinary vision into exceptional foodservice design. From acclaimed restaurants like The Commodore and Lupi & Iris to the University of Wisconsin Camp Randall Student-Athlete Center, her collaborative approach has helped chefs, operators and institutions create memorable guest experiences through thoughtful, highly functional design. A respected leader in two traditionally male-dominated industries, Megan is equally passionate about mentoring future project managers and designers, ensuring her influence will continue shaping Wisconsin hospitality for years to come. Megan Scott Project Manager / Designer Boelter Glendale |
Where others see students, Jamie Lutz sees the future of hospitality. For nearly two decades, she has inspired young people to discover the opportunities within the industry while building one of Wisconsin's premier ProStart programs. Her ability to connect with students as a teacher, coach, mentor and counselor has led to three consecutive Wisconsin ProStart State Championships and a Top 10 national finish. Today, students are transferring into the district specifically to join her program, while her work on the national ProStart textbook is helping shape hospitality education for more than 200,000 students nationwide. Jamie Lutz Family & Consumer Sciences & ProStart Educator Badger High School Lake Geneva |
Kaelyn Cervero began her hospitality career as an intern at Wisconsin State Fair Park and spent more than 20 years building experience across hotels, catering, events, food and beverage operations, sales and business development. She brought that knowledge together to launch Noble Catering & Events, growing it into a $4 million-plus business in less than three years before expanding through 41Fork Hospitality Management. Kaelyn measures that growth by more than revenue. She recognizes where employees shine, understands where they want their careers to go and creates opportunities for them to advance. Her journey from intern to entrepreneur is now opening doors for the people rising alongside her. Kaelyn Cervero Owner Noble Catering & Events / 41Fork Hospitality New Berlin |
Erin Vranas is carrying the legacy of Parthenon Gyros forward by strengthening both the business and the people behind it. As co-owner of the longtime State Street institution, she has modernized operations, improved internal systems and created meaningful pathways for employees to grow. Erin has built structured training and leadership-development programs that challenge team members to solve problems, take ownership and think beyond their current roles. As the Wisconsin Restaurant Association’s 2025 Board Chair and a member of the National Restaurant Association Board, Erin advocates for independent restaurants, small businesses and the people who make hospitality possible. Erin Vranas Owner Parthenon Gyros Madison |
As co-owner of Alaska Fresh Seafood, Adra has helped transform a Wisconsin startup into a thriving business serving consumers, restaurants, retailers and wholesale partners throughout the Midwest. Through customer education, storytelling and genuine relationships, she has made sustainable seafood approachable while building lasting trust with those she serves. Her hands-on leadership empowers employees to grow through mentorship, encouragement and real-world learning. Combined with her commitment to sustainability and supporting women in the food industry, Adra demonstrates that hospitality isn't just about what you sell—it's about the relationships you build and the confidence you inspire. Adra Kusnirova Owner Alaska Fresh Seafood Butler |
While serving as a Wisconsin Department of Justice Special Agent, Loreen Glaman quietly built Vino Latte into far more than a neighborhood café. She created a culture centered on setting others up for success, where the job became a place to build confidence, learn to communicate, solve problems, serve others and grow into opportunities they never imagined. That same philosophy extends throughout the Wausau community by providing affordable meals and meaningful social connection for older adults, continuing her leadership in elder justice advocacy, championing fellow small businesses through Vino Latte's "Locals Supporting Locals" initiative, and investing in a stronger, more connected community every day. Loreen Glaman Owner Vino Latte Wausau |
As Director of Training for Cousins Subs, Kristi Kramp turns company goals into practical training that equips employees and franchisees across nearly 100 restaurants to succeed. She helped prepare six new restaurant openings and leads the cross-functional Implementation Team responsible for introducing new products and operational changes. Kristi pairs high expectations with encouragement, creating an environment where people feel comfortable asking questions and ready to grow. Her training sets restaurants up for success, but her greatest influence is seen in the people she makes better. They remember what she taught them—and how supported, capable and valued she made them feel. Kristi Kramp Director of Training Cousins Subs Menomonee Falls |
Stephanie LaBella believes small acts of support can change the trajectory of someone’s life. As Chief Human Resources Officer for Burwell Enterprises/The Madison Concourse Hotel & Governor’s Club, she works intentionally to ensure team members have opportunities to learn, grow and advance. Her investment in people extends beyond the hotel through Madison College’s Hospitality Management Advisory Board, classroom visits, mentoring and tours that introduce students to careers they may never have considered. By opening doors for employees and emerging professionals, Stephanie strengthens her workplace and contributes to Wisconsin’s hospitality community in meaningful and lasting ways. Stephanie LaBella Chief Human Resources Officer Burwell Enterprises Madison |
Only 18 months into her first hospitality role, Keely Liska is already making an unmistakable impact. As Group Rooms Coordinator at AC Hotel Madison Downtown, she anticipates guest needs, communicates seamlessly across departments and brings a personal touch to gatherings of every size. Keely quickly mastered the systems, billing and logistics behind group stays while earning the confidence of clients and colleagues. She also sees what could be better, developing a Wedding Getting Ready Package that filled an unmet guest need and created a new revenue opportunity. Her fresh perspective, initiative and excitement for hospitality point to a career with remarkable promise. Keely Liska Group Rooms Coordinator AC Hotel Madison |
Naomi Schmidt entered the hotel industry without prior experience and quickly found her calling. Starting at the front desk, she learned every part of the operation, stepped in wherever needed and became a source of stability during times of change. Now Assistant Manager of AmericInn by Wyndham Chippewa Falls, Naomi embodies servant leadership—never asking others to do something she would not do herself. She leads alongside her coworkers and shares the workload when challenges arise, earning the trust of guests, employees and ownership. Her example has transformed a place of employment into a team that feels like family. Owner Harlie Juedes says Wisconsin hospitality is brighter because Naomi is part of it. Naomi Schmidt Assistant Manager AmericInn by Wyndham Chippewa Falls |
After nearly 30 years in healthcare, Edna Noll took a courageous leap into hospitality, acquiring Brew 52 and pursuing her longtime dream of owning a café and sharing Brazilian cuisine. In her first four months, she improved service speed, expanded the team and grew the business—all while preserving the menu and welcoming atmosphere customers already loved. Whether she is working the register, helping a barista or clearing tables, Edna brings warmth and an exacting eye for the guest experience. Her vision is giving Mukwonago something rare: authentic Brazilian flavors, genuine connection and new opportunities for family members and local students to learn the hospitality business. Edna Noll Owner Brew 52 Mukwonago |
Here’s to the 2026 Student Achievement
NEW CATEGORY!
Honoring post-secondary students pursuing hospitality-related education who are building a strong foundation for a future in the industry.
Honoring post-secondary students pursuing hospitality-related education who are building a strong foundation for a future in the industry.
Madison College Hospitality Management student Aubrey Frazier is building the knowledge, range and resilience to become an industry leader. While carrying a full course load and working two jobs, she maintained a 4.0 GPA and funded a global entrepreneurship study experience in Italy. Her work as a line cook, food runner, host, server and wedding coordinator assistant allows her to understand hospitality from many angles. In the classroom, she embraces feedback, helps every voice be heard and turns challenges into opportunities to grow. Aubrey believes hospitality is built through relationships, not transactions. Aubrey Frazier Hospitality Management Student Madison College Madison |
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