Contribute

Night of a Thousand Stars Gala

The Night of a Thousand Stars Gala shines a spotlight on the hotel industry’s true VIPs — the property-level professionals whose talent, dedication, and heart make hospitality extraordinary.

Industry leaders gather annually to honor the Stars of the Industry Award winners and celebrate the individuals who embody the spirit of service, while raising critical funds to advance the Foundation’s mission.

Join us as we celebrate hospitality’s brightest stars. Proceeds from the Gala help fund scholarships, apprenticeships, and grants for community-based partners nationwide, creating opportunity, strengthening the workforce, and shaping the future of our industry.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities for Night of a Thousand Stars, please contact Sasha Somuah at ssmouah@ahla.com

Sasha Somuah
Manager, Development and Fundraising

What are the “Stars of the Industry”?

The “Stars of the Industry” are the few industry professionals recognized at the gala for awards such as:

  • Stars of the Industry are AHLA’s annual Awards recognition for outstanding hospitality professionals.
  • North Star Award: Lodging Employee of the Year celebrates employees who embody hospitality and commitment to their property and community.
  • Stevan Porter Emerging Hospitality Leader of the Year acknowledges rising leaders under age 30.
    Scholar of the Year Award recognizes outstanding hospitality student achievement.
  • Hotel Hero Award honors a team member who went above and beyond to help a guest, colleague, or property in a true time of need.
  • Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award is presented annually by AHLA, AHLA Foundation and the BHN Group and recognizes the transformational leadership of industry icon Arne Sorenson, former president & CEO of Marriott International.

 

Thank you to our 2026 Stars of the Industry Winners and Sponsors