DETROIT — More than 150 of metro Detroit’s most outstanding hospitality professionals were recently recognized for their exceptional service contributions at the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau’s annual ROSE Awards at the Detroit Institute of Arts.
Established in 1994, the ROSE Awards is an annual event dedicated to honoring front-line hospitality workers throughout the region who work tirelessly to deliver outstanding customer service in their industry.
“With more than 20 million visitors to the metro area each year, the hospitality industry is a significant aspect of the local economy,” said DMCVB President & CEO Larry Alexander. “The ROSE Awards allow the community a unique opportunity to thank and honor the men and women dedicated to providing a positive experience to visitors of the region.”
ROSE Award nominations were provided by clients, guests, supervisors and the general public. One winner in each of the six categories of: Attractions and Casinos, Behind the Scenes, Hotels, Restaurants, Transportation and Volunteers was chosen on a strict set of criteria including outstanding customer service, ability to problem solve effectively, workplace attitude, knowledge and expertise. One Overall Service Champion, selected by a panel of expert hospitality professionals, was also recognized.
The 2013 category winners were:
- Attractions and Casinos: Lynnetta Shaw, Events Coordinator, Hart Plaza
- Behind the Scenes: Nikisha Holloway, Building Engineer 1, Courtyard Marriott-Detroit Downtown
- Hotels: John de’Nooijer, Bellman/Doorman, MotorCity Casino Hotel
- Restaurants: Tracy Stefanides, Bartender, Ocean Prime
- Transportation: Cindy Mamo, Customer Service Agent, Delta Air Lines
- Volunteers: Bob FitzGerald, Airport Ambassador, Wayne County Airport Authority
The Overall Service Champion was Dominic Agosta, Maintenance Technician II Plumber for the Detroit Zoological Society. Being the only plumber at the zoo, Agosta is faced with an enormous task. He manages and prioritizes his duties effectively and exhibits his extensive knowledge and extraordinary work ethic each day. Agosta is known and admired by peers and visitors for his positive attitude, treating all tasks with importance.
Winners received a prize pack which included gift certificates and tickets to some of the area’s most popular restaurants and attractions, a dozen roses and the prestigious crystal ROSE award.
