Orlando, Florida, May 2015 – The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) has awarded the Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association (AzLTA) the designation of Certified Guest Service Partner. To earn the designation, the association’s staff members completed AHLEI’s Guest Service Gold® training and earned the Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP®) designation. The training was conducted by Sue Garwood, CHA, CHT, senior hospitality management trainer at Best Western International, which has its headquarters in Arizona.

The Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association (AzLTA) is a trade-based membership organization representing more than 38,000 guestrooms statewide and almost 500 members including hotel, resorts, attractions, destination marketing organizations, B&B’s and related industry partners.

“As a valued Partner State Association, our staff is honored to become certified in AHLEI’s Guest Service Gold Program,” said AzLTA president and CEO Debbie Johnson. “Our team learned valuable lessons and traits of outstanding service levels and also truly enjoyed the experience of the training. The Guest Service Gold training and certification will enhance our ability to train others throughout the State of Arizona and enrich member appreciation and benefits.”

For more information on Guest Service Gold® and becoming a Certified Guest Service Property or Partner, visit www.ahlei.org.