News

2018 Back of House – Hospitality Finalist Derek Morganti Hyatt Regency Albuquerque What was your first job in the hospitality/tourism industry? Depending on what you consider, I began as a busser at Romano’s Macaroni Grill when I was 15 and moved my way up in F&B. In 2012 I started at Hyatt in the Banquets team, and moved to Operations … Read More

2018 Front of House – Food and Beverage Finalist Trina Jojola Isleta Resort & Casino What was your first job in the hospitality/tourism industry? Isleta Resort & Casino- Concession Food Attendant Who has helped/mentored you throughout your career? Isleta Management Team & Family What has been the highlight of your career? Being able to be with Isleta Resort & Casino … Read More

2018 Hospitality Professional of the Year Finalist Mark Mares Eldorado Hotel & Spa What was your first job in the hospitality/tourism industry? Sales Assistant at Howard Johnson Hotel Circle – Albuquerque, NM Who has helped/mentored you throughout your career? Jerry Gleason with Hilton Hotels Corporation What has been the highlight of your career? Getting to work back in New Mexico, … Read More

2018 Hospitality Professional of the Year Finalis Joani Jones Crowne Plaza Albuquerque What was your first job in the hospitality/tourism industry? Breakfast Server Who has helped/mentored you throughout your career? My older sister has always been a positive influence in my life. She has been my role model, offered spiritual guidance, counselor, cheerleader and best friend. What has been the … Read More

2018 Hospitality Professional of the Year Finalist Jourdan Elterman Heritage Hotels & Restorts What was your first job in the hospitality/tourism industry? Valet and swimsuit model Who has helped/mentored you throughout your career? Mark De La O What has been the highlight of your career? Playing a significant role in bringing historic revenue numbers to the Lodge at Santa Fe … Read More

2018 Back of House – Hospitality Finalist Joshua Arnold Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals, Inc. What was your first job in the hospitality/tourism industry? Working as a busboy & server at Savory Fare restaurant in Albuquerque, NM (14-18). Who has helped/mentored you throughout your career? Many people ranging from my parents to my wife (we continue to grow together). However, … Read More

ABQ Business First announced their Deals of the Year Finalists on October 9th and among the 32 finalists were a few NMHA members. We just want to highlight the achievements of our members and congratulate them on their nomination! Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm was nominated for their $10 million renovation … Read More

2018 Front of House – Hospitality Finalist Amanda Gesten La Posada de Santa Fe What was your first job in the hospitality/tourism industry? Plaza Bakery- Assistant Manager (2008) Who has helped/mentored you throughout your career? Kristin Lepisto, Kathrine Balleau, David Stone, Annabel Tiberi, Dana Esparza, Ellen Zieselman What has been the highlight of your career? The highlight of my career … Read More

2018 Back of House – Food and Beverage Finalist Christina Martinez El Monte Sagrado What was your first job in the hospitality/tourism industry? Cleaning and cooking at Los Copanas. Who has helped/mentored you throughout your career? My Grandmother Leila and Mother Agnes, Also Pat and Terry Keene. What has been the highlight of your career? Working at El Monte Sagrado. … Read More

2018 Hospitality Professional of the Year Finalist Robin Henry Hotel Chaco What was your first job in the hospitality/tourism industry? Business Travel Manager- Sheraton Airport, Albuquerque Who has helped/mentored you throughout your career? In my diverse career path, I have had many who mentored me and help grow my leadership skills. But it all began with my father, who instilled … Read More