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.