Thank You to Our Back of the House Sponsors
|
Calling All Lodging Members to Register for the 2026 CFHLA Hospitality Tradeshow
|
Don’t miss the largest annual Hospitality Tradeshow in the Southeast Region! Join us on Tuesday, August 4 from 10am – 3pm at the Rosen Shingle Creek for the 2026 Hospitality Tradeshow. Catch the Wave of Hospitality: Explore the latest products, services, and technologies designed to improve operations and enhance the guest experience. Plus, savor the latest in culinary trends through our Ultimate Chef Competition. Lastly, don’t miss our hospitality-focused education seminars, including the 2026 Annual Legal Update HR Seminar and the Technology in Hospitality seminar.
Registration is complimentary for all lodging professionals. For quicker check-in, last chance to pre-register is Sunday, August 2, 2026. However, registration is still available on-site, on the day of the show.
|
CARES Collection Drive Results in 11,770
Donations to Support Local Students
|
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our members and community partners, more than 11,770 items were donated during this week's CFHLA CARES Collection Drive! These items will benefit students in Orange and Osceola County Public Schools.
From business suits and dress shirts to shoes, ties, belts, and accessories, these donations will help students build professional wardrobes as they prepare for interviews, internships, hospitality and culinary competitions, formal events, and their future careers.
We are grateful to everyone who cleaned out their closets, donated professional attire, and helped make this collection drive another tremendous success. Your generosity will have a lasting impact by helping local students gain the confidence and professional attire they need to achieve their goals!
|
CFHLA Housekeeping Council
Advances Sustainable Hospitality Practices
|
Thank you to all of the hospitality professionals who attended this week's Housekeeping Council meeting at the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management. This meeting focused on sustainability and featured Ben O’Connell of Clean the World, who shared how the organization's Hospitality Recycling Program diverts used soap bars and plastic amenities from landfills to create new hygiene products. Through this initiative, hotel partners reduce waste, conserve resources, lower their environmental footprint, and help improve lives in communities around the world. Additionally, Kristine Richmond and Yami Gonzalez of Waste Management highlighted the company's sustainability initiatives, including repurposing recycled materials, expanding renewable energy solutions, and investing in the communities they serve. They also discussed the Recycle Right program, providing practical resources to help properties engage guests and team members in improving recycling efforts. We sincerely thank Dean Cynthia Mejia and the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management for hosting the Council meeting and for their continued partnership with CFHLA. To learn more about or get involved with the Housekeeping Council, please contact Melanie Anesh, Director of Industry Relations and Community Impact, at melanie.anesh@cfhla.org.
|
CFHLA Talent & Learning Council Strengthens
Central Florida’s Hospitality Workforce
|
CFHLA proudly hosted another Talent & Learning Council meeting this week. This newly formed Council is dedicated to strengthening Central Florida's hospitality talent pipeline through meaningful partnerships and strategic collaboration. Its work focuses on attracting qualified and passionate candidates, increasing awareness of the industry's diverse career opportunities, and supporting the recruitment, retention, development, and recognition of employees at every level, from entry-level positions to executive leadership.
Comprised of lodging General Managers, human resources professionals, allied business leaders, educators, and community workforce development partners, the Council brings together a broad range of expertise to help address the hospitality industry's long-term workforce needs.
To learn more about or join the Talent & Learning Council, please contact Melanie Anesh, Director of Industry Relations and Community Impact, at melanie.anesh@cfhla.org.
|
Build Your Knowledge at the
2026 CFHLA Hospitality Tradeshow Seminars
|
Join us at the 2026 CFHLA Hospitality Tradeshow and be sure to register for the two educational seminars that are designed to help hospitality professionals stay informed, connected, and prepared for the future.
These educational seminars include:
- 2026 Annual Legal Update from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Featuring Jyllian Bradshaw with Lowndes
- Technology in Hospitality from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Featuring Dr. Arthur Huang of UCF Rosen College and Tyler Spaulding of Orlando World Center Marriott
Attendees will gain timely insights into workplace legal updates, emerging technologies, and the growing role of innovation in hotel operations. These seminars also provide an opportunity to learn from respected industry and academic leaders while connecting with hospitality professionals from across Central Florida. Together, these sessions reflect CFHLA's ongoing commitment to professional development and a stronger hospitality workforce.
CLICK HERE to register for the Human Resources Seminar.
CLICK HERE to register for the Leadership Series Seminar.
|
CFHLA Welcomes Fairfield by
Marriott Inn & Suites Davenport
|
Please join us in celebrating the grand opening of the newest addition to Central Florida's hospitality community, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Davenport!
After years of planning, construction, and collaboration, General Manager Perry Sudol and his team have officially opened the doors to this beautiful 111-room property, welcoming guests with the exceptional service and hospitality that define the Marriott brand.
Conveniently located at 45590 US Highway 27 in Davenport, the newly opened hotel offers 111 modern guest rooms and suites, complimentary hot breakfast, free high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, electric vehicle charging stations, and flexible spaces designed to meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers. The property also provides convenient access to many of Central Florida's top attractions, including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Posner Park, and the region's growing business community.
Congratulations on this remarkable accomplishment, and welcome to the CFHLA family!
|
Reserve Your Time at the CFHLA Concierge Desk
|
Reserve your time at the CFHLA Concierge Desk this fall, in the newly renovated UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management! This exciting new initiative is designed to strengthen the connection between CFHLA members and the future leaders of the hospitality industry.
The CFHLA Concierge Desk provides Lodging and Allied Members with a meaningful opportunity to:
- Engage directly with students
- Share industry insights and expertise
- Showcase career opportunities within the hospitality industry
- Build relationships with emerging professionals
With the support of the CFHLA Foundation, this initiative reflects our continued partnership with UCF Rosen College and our shared commitment to developing the next generation of hospitality professionals while strengthening Central Florida's tourism and hospitality industry.
Reservations are available in two-hour time slots beginning September 1st. To reserve your time at the CFHLA Concierge Desk, please click on the link below.
|
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR JULY
MEMBERS OF THE MONTH
|
CFHLA is honored to recognize Scott Disson of Courtyard Orlando Airport as our July Lodging Member of the Month. This recognition reflects Scott's outstanding leadership, dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to CFHLA and the Central Florida hospitality industry. Scott has actively participated in numerous CFHLA signature events over the years and has been a valued contributor to our Airport Area Lodging Leadership Meetings. He has also served on several CFHLA committees and councils, including the Adopt-A-School Committee and Membership Committee, and was recently appointed to the CFHLA Board of Directors. Scott's engagement, leadership, and willingness to share his time and expertise have strengthened both our organization and the hospitality industry.
We are also proud to recognize David Torres of Common Sense Office Furniture as our Allied Member of the Month. Over the past year, David has been a tremendous partner to CFHLA, and we are incredibly grateful for his support throughout our office relocation and renovation. From assisting with multiple office moves to helping us furnish our newly renovated office, David's expertise and dedication have played a significant role in creating a workspace our team is proud to call home.
We are honored to recognize and celebrate Scott and David as our July Members of the Month. Their continued partnership and engagement exemplify the spirit of CFHLA, and we sincerely appreciate their contributions to the Central Florida hospitality industry.
|
Meet Our Silver Partners:
Comprehensive Energy Services & LMG Construction
|
Comprehensive Energy Services (CES Mechanical) is proud to support CFHLA and its mission to set the standard of excellence for Central Florida's hospitality industry. As a trusted partner to hotels and resorts throughout the region, we recognize the important role CFHLA plays in advocating for the industry, fostering collaboration, and providing valuable educational and networking opportunities.
Workforce development is a core value at CES Mechanical and a key reason we proudly support CFHLA. By investing in training, professional development, and opportunities for the next generation of skilled professionals, we help strengthen the hospitality workforce while supporting the industry's continued growth and success.
Through our partnership with CFHLA, CES Mechanical remains committed to delivering innovative mechanical solutions while helping build a stronger, more resilient hospitality community that contributes to the long-term economic success of Central Florida.
|
LMG Construction Services is proud to support CFHLA as a 2026 Silver Partner. Our commitment is rooted in building strong relationships and supporting the long-term success of Central Florida's hospitality industry.
CFHLA's advocacy, educational programs, and networking opportunities bring together hotel owners, operators, and industry partners to strengthen the region's hospitality community. These initiatives align with LMG's commitment to delivering high-quality hotel renovations while protecting daily operations and the guest experience.
Specializing in occupied hotel renovations and capital improvement projects, LMG works closely with ownership teams to minimize disruptions, maintain clear communication, and preserve asset performance throughout every phase of construction. We take pride in serving as a trusted partner, helping properties enhance their facilities while maintaining exceptional guest service.
Together with CFHLA, LMG is investing in a stronger, more resilient future for Central Florida's hospitality industry.
|
Check out the latest hospitality employment opportunities in Central Florida.
|
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.
|
|