Louisville, March 26, 2025 – The Association of Lodging Professionals (ALP) celebrated its annual award ceremony during its dinner, recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication has left a significant mark on the ALP community.

INDUSTRY IMPACT AWARD 

The Industry Impact Award (formerly the Chair's Award of Excellence) is a special honor given at the discretion of the ALP’s Chair of the Board of Directors to an individual or organization whose contributions and service have had a lasting impact on the ALP community.

This year, we proudly present the Industry Impact Award to E Scot Fuller-Beatty. Scot, who served as Board Chair and Interim CEO during a pivotal time for ALP. Through every challenge, every change, and every decision, Scot led with integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the success of our organization and its members. We are deeply grateful for his steady leadership and dedication. 

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD 

The Distinguished Service Award (formerly the Volunteer of the Year Award) is presented to a dedicated individual who fulfills the “spirit” of ALP over the past year.

Marilyn Bushnell of Marilyn Bushnell & Associates, receives this year’s Distinguished Service Award for her exemplary leadership and dedication to ALP and ALP Fund. Over the years, she has volunteered as our Conference Room Host Coordinator, Volunteer Coordinator, and a key part of the Aspiring Innkeeper Conference. She has also played an integral role in supporting education and future industry leaders through her work on the Scholarship Committee and as the current Chair of the ALP Fund. And, as if that weren’t enough, she continues to shape ALP’s future through her work with the Leadership Development Committee.

PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD 

The Public Service Award is designed to honor an ALP member who has demonstrated a commitment to his/her community and the needs of others.

This year’s recipients, Erin Abraham and Zackary Jellis of The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast, exemplify what it means to turn personal pain into purpose. In honor of a deeply personal loss, Erin and Zack channeled their grief into action—combining their passion for long-distance running with a powerful mission. Together, they’ve completed countless races, from 5Ks to 100+ mile ultra-marathons, to raise funds and awareness for Team Samaritans, a nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention and supporting those affected by loss. Their strength, compassion, and dedication are truly inspiring

INNOVATOR AWARD 

The Innovator Award is presented to a property that has demonstrated innovation in the areas of sales, marketing, operations, guest services, technology, revenue management, etc. This property has gone above and beyond the norm to improve overall property management and guest satisfaction.

Saratoga Arms Hotel, receives the 2025 Innovator Award for continuing to set the standard for excellence in independent hospitality, for their bold, creative, and community-minded approach to marketing and guest engagement.

INDEPENDENT LODGING EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD

The Independent Lodging Employee of the Year is awarded to a lodging property’s star employee. This employee goes above and beyond in their daily tasks, delivers outstanding guest services, and is passionate, engaged, and committed to the property.

This year's recipient is Alex Pikuza, General Manager of the Inn of the Turquoise Bear. Alex has been a key part of the Inn of the Turquoise Bear for ten years, rising through the ranks from Assistant Innkeeper to Innkeeper, and now General Manager. His journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. As General Manager, Alex does it all—managing staff, overseeing guest services, handling facility maintenance, controlling inventory, running payroll—and yes, he still cooks, cleans, bakes, answers the phones, serves breakfast, provides concierge services, and hosts the twilight wine reception. Alex is the definition of reliability and leadership.

Congratulations to all the recipients for their outstanding contributions and commitment to excellence within the lodging industry.