BROOKFIELD, Wis. (April 6, 2010) � Kirk Drusch, CHA, WIA Chairman of the Board and Vice President and General Manager of the Brookfield Suites Hotel & Convention Center was presented a State Leadership Award by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA). Drusch received the award at the AH&LA Legislative Action Summit in Washington, D.C. in March for his work on behalf of the Wisconsin Innkeepers Association.

�This award is our opportunity to say �thank you� to our most treasured asset, our volunteers,� said AH&LA President/CEO Joseph A. McInerney, CHA. �It�s because of their drive and leadership that our associations make the industry better for both our
employees and our guests � nationally and locally.�

�The Wisconsin Innkeepers Association (WIA) is fortunate to have Kirk Drusch and his passion for industry data and analysis at our helm this year,� said Trisha Pugal, President, CEO of WIA. �His support of our organization and industry exemplifies his
�leadership by example� approach.�

Launched in 1998, this annual award, formerly known as the Most Valuable Volunteer Award, is presented to one person in each state who has contributed to their individual state hospitality programs and initiatives. Winners are determined by the partner state
associations and receive a commemorative award.

The Wisconsin Innkeepers Association (WIA) represents nearly 1,000 hotels, motels, resorts, inns, hotel condos, and bed & breakfasts throughout Wisconsin.