2017 Hospitality Professional of the Year Presented by Visit Albuquerque

Kenneth Riege

General Manager – Comfort Suites Gallup

What was your first job in the hospitality industry?
General Manager of the Holiday Inn Express in Gallup

Who has helped/mentored you through your career?
Yogash Kumar

What has been the highlight of your career?
When I visit with our guest and they show their deepest appreciation for how we honor our military and veterans.

What is one thing you would tell young people entering the hospitality business?
Always remember to smile. Smiles are free and go a long way.

What are your favorite places to visit in New Mexico?
Going with my family to Santa Fe to visit art museums and to see the statue of my good friend MOH Recipient Leroy Petry