Announced at FH&MA�s annual conference in Orlando, the award is the group�s highest honor and recognizes Ruzic�s �outstanding contributions of leadership, service and exemplary professionalism in the lodging industry.�  It was presented to Ruzic at the Renaissance Orlando Resort by Walter Banks, FH&MA�s 2000-01 chairman and owner of Ft. Lauderdale�s Lago Mar Resort. The Temple Terrace hotelier, his property and

John F. Ruzic

Active in civic and professional affairs, he is a past president of the Temple Terrace Chamber of Commerce and the Owners Council of Choice Hotels International.  He has served on the board of governors for the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce and as a member of the Hillsborough County Tourism Development Council and the Tampa/Hillsborough Convention & Visitors Association.  He is currently serving a fourth term (non-consecutive) as president of the board of directors for Seniors in Service.

Ruzic is a member of the board of directors of the FH&MA.  He holds both master�s and bachelor�s degrees in hotel and food service management from Florida International University in Miami and an associate of science degree in culinary arts from Triton College in River Grove, IL.