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July 25, 2025

CFHLA Thanks Our Back of the House Sponsors

 

Leadership Mentoring Program, Class IV

Explores Purposeful Leadership 

This week, CFHLA’s Leadership Mentoring Program, Class IV gathered for an educational session centered around purposeful leadership and career growth. 

This seminar offered mentees and mentors an opportunity to reflect, connect, ask questions, and practice the skills that are necessary to succeed across all levels of leadership.

 

Thank you to Chris Trout of Donlon Insights for leading this session. We would also like to thank Jorg Heyer of Marriott Vacations Worldwide and Colleen Mera of Brush & Brand for sharing their inspiring stories and insights during the panel discussion, highlighting how adaptability and relationship-building have played a key role in their professional growth.

Thank you again to all of our speakers, mentees, and mentors who participated in this impactful session. We look forward to continuing the journey with Class IV at our next event!

 

Three CFHLA Members Appointed to

VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors

This week, DT Minich, President and CEO of Experience Kissimmee; Adam Babington, Vice President of External Affairs at the Walt Disney World Company; and Sarah Nemes, Director of External Affairs at United Parks & Resorts Inc., were all appointed to the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors. 

 

This is significant, as all three leaders are members of the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association, further highlighting the organization’s strong presence in shaping statewide tourism strategy. Additionally, both DT and Sarah currently serve as Honorary members of the CFHLA Board of Directors.

 

Congratulations again to DT, Sarah, and Adam - CFHLA is proud to celebrate their leadership within the tourism and hospitality industry, as they represent our region on the statewide stage!

 

Painting the Way Forward with Munyan

Recently, our CFHLA VIP Member Munyan Painting, Roofing and Restoration stepped up in a big way and helped us completely repaint our soon-to-be temporary office space, as our current office undergoes significant renovations soon. Special thanks to Munyan Painting, Roofing and Restoration for helping to ensure that our temporary office will remain professional and inviting as we continue our important work for each of you, our members.

 

Check out the transformation in these before and after photos!

We are deeply grateful to Munyan for their continued partnership with CFHLA and strong commitment to supporting the hospitality community.

 
 

Partners in Action - Marriott - Orlando East/ UCF Team Supports Camelot Elementary

CFHLA extends a big thank you to the Courtyard by Marriott Orlando East/UCF Area Team for their generous participation in Whispering Oak Elementary’s Teacher Appreciation Week and Honor Roll Ceremony. Students were thrilled to receive special treats in recognition of their hard work and achievements.

The team truly enjoyed celebrating Camelot’s kind and dedicated educators, helping them start their day with smiles and gratitude. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success and we look forward to sharing more ways CFHLA members continue to support these meaningful education partnerships!

 

Magical Dining Is Back! 

Visit Orlando’s beloved Magical Dining event returns for its 20th anniversary this year! From August 15 to September 30, over 160 premier Central Florida restaurants (including many of our CFHLA hotel partners) and 24 newcomers, will offer exclusive three-course, prix-fixe dinners priced at $40 or $60!

This year’s main beneficiary is the REED Charitable Foundation, which is working to end the literacy crisis by ensuring all children have access to reading instruction through affordable, accessible educator training.

 

Learn more and make your reservations here: Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining® Presented by Orlando Health.

 

Congratulations to Ms. Woodring –

CTE Secondary Teacher of the Year!

CFHLA proudly congratulates Ms. Valerie Woodring on being named the School District of Osceola County’s CTE Secondary Teacher of the Year! 

A dedicated educator with years of experience, Ms. Woodring has built a strong and respected Hospitality Program at Osceola High School. Her students have earned two first-place finishes in the Osceola Cooks! County Competition the past two years. Through her deep connections with both students and the hospitality industry, she continues to inspire the next generation of professionals. 

CFHLA continues to support Ms. Woodring’s exceptional program through speaking opportunities with our High School Outreach program, and site visits through our Vacation Ownership Council’s initiatives. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!

 
 

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR

MEMBERS OF THE MONTH

Jaret Della Porta 

Marriott’s Harbour Lake

To nominate a future CFHLA Allied and/or Lodging Member of the Month, please CLICK HERE.

 

MEET THE VIP

Did You Know...  

TRS Wireless has been providing communication solutions to Central Florida businesses since 1969. We also provide Internet, telephone and RF studies for the new Emergency Communication requirements and can install the necessary equipment for compliance.

 

JOB OPENINGS

Check out the latest hospitality employment opportunities in Central Florida.

 

CONNECT WITH CFHLA

About CFHLA


6675 Westwood Blvd #210, Orlando, FL 32821

 

The mission of the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association is to represent the Central Florida Hospitality Industry, by setting the standard of excellence through advocacy, collaboration, education, recognition, and service.

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