New Haven, CT  - The Connecticut Lodging Association (CLA) held their 107th Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner on November 28th, 2011 and presented “Stars of the Industry” Awards to lodging employees that demonstrate exemplary professionalism and exceptional service.

The CLA's "Stars of the Industry" awards were created to recognize outstanding achievements in Connecticut's Lodging community. Nominated by members of the CLA, award winners in eight (8) categories are selected by committee. Winners on the state level automatically compete at the national level in the American Hotel & Lodging Association's (AH&LA) "Stars of the Industry" awards competition. Awards categories include Housekeeping Associate of the Year, Front Desk Associate Award, and two separate General Manager of the Year for 150 rooms or less, and 151 rooms or more.

Stars of the Industry Awards for 2011:
 
Outstanding Manager of the Year:
Shane Arnold from the Marriott Hartford Downtown
Honorable Mention: Alphonsine Mwizerwa from the Waterford SpringHill Suites by Marriott
 
Outstanding Housekeeping Associate of the Year:
Eugena Champagnie from the Marriott Hartford Downtown
Honorable Mention: Norma Brown from the Marriott Residence Inn Downtown Hartford
 
Outstanding General Manager of the Year:
Michael Trosin from the Hartford Windsor Marriott
Honorable Mention: Duane Shroder from the Hilton Hartford
 
Outstanding Food and Beverage Associate of the Year:
Tara Cappiello from the Mystic Marriott Hotel and Spa
Honorable Mention: Luis Medina from the Hilton Hartford
 
Outstanding Front Desk Associate of the Year:
Joel Karliner from the Hartford Windsor Marriott
Honorable Mention: Wanda Sanchez from the Sheraton Hartford
 
Outstanding Sales Associate of the Year:
Tricia Caron from the Hartford Windsor Marriott
Honorable Mention: Amanda Roberts from the Hartford Windsor Marriott

Scholarship:
Christina Gutska from the Hartford Windsor Marriott

About Connecticut Lodging Association
The Connecticut Lodging Association serves as an advocate for the lodging industry in Connecticut.  It is a complete resource to Connecticut hoteliers, providing them with educational and networking opportunities while representing their interests in the legislative and regulatory arenas.  For more information, visit www.ctlodging.org.