NCRLA

North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association

Each year the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (NCRLA) celebrates the outstanding contributions of employees at every level across North Carolina’s hospitality industry at our Stars of the Industry awards gala. From line-level staff to executive leaders, these awards recognize individuals who have demonstrated exceptional professionalism, creativity, and dedication, enhancing the hospitality industry’s positive impact statewide.

The 2026 Stars of the Industry Awards will take place on Monday, February 23, at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel in Durham, where we will honor those who truly go above and beyond. Please use this form to nominate a deserving candidate.

Guidelines for Nominations:

  • Only NCRLA members in good standing are eligible to nominate or be nominated.
  • Self-nominations are not accepted.
  • Previous award recipients are ineligible to win in the same category but may be nominated for a different category.
  • Submit nominations by Friday, December 12.

For detailed category descriptions and to view previous award recipients, click here. 

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Nominator Information

Please enter your contact details. This information allows the awards committee to follow up if additional details about your nomination are needed.
Nominator's Name(Required)
Email(Required)
Employer/Business Name
Current position

Nominee Information

Please enter details about the person you are nominating. Accurate information ensures that we can properly recognize and contact the nominee if selected.
Nominee's Name(Required)
Employer/Business Name
Current position
Address(Required)

Award Category

Award Categories(Required)
Please select one category for which the nominee is being considered.

Nomination Details

In this section, describe what makes your nominee exceptional. Provide specific examples based on the description of each award. Please include their achievements, top qualities, and impact within their role and why they stand out as a leader or team player in hospitality.
Optional. To help set your nominee apart, you may include a short story that captures this nominee’s dedication.
If available, include a bio, online reviews, letters, or other brief testimonials that support the nominee’s impact.
Max. file size: 50 MB.
Thank you for helping us spotlight the dedicated professionals who make North Carolina’s hospitality industry shine. We look forward to celebrating with you in February.(Required)