Hollywood, Florida, October 30th, 2023 – The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) hosted the 38th Annual Masquerade Gala - Awards Dinner & Silent Auction at the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort. This premier event is dedicated to celebrating the achievements and excellence within the hospitality industry.

This year's gala promised to be an unforgettable night filled with glamour, excitement, and recognition of the outstanding contributions made by individuals who have demonstrated excellence in various facets of the hospitality sector.

Honoring a Hospitality Legend: Jorge Pesquera

The highlight of the evening honored Jorge Pesquera, President, and CEO of The Palm Beaches, as the 2022 Hospitality Legend. With an impressive 45-year career in the travel and tourism industry, Jorge's commitment to The Palm Beaches County has significantly impacted the region's tourism, resulting in a record-breaking 9.1 million visitors in 2022.

Jorge's illustrious career includes serving as the president and CEO of the Aruba Hotel and Tourism Association, where he was honored as the Hotel Association Executive of the Year at the Caribbean Hotel Industry Conference. His decade-long leadership at the Puerto Rico Convention and Visitors Bureau oversaw the development of the $450 million Puerto Rico Convention Center and its surrounding district. Jorge's influence extends to his senior executive positions at Hilton International and Conrad Hotels, leaving an indelible mark on locations such as New York, London, and Beverly Hills. Jorge Pesquera is truly an inspiring leader and a deserving recipient of the HSMAI’s Hospitality Legend 2022 title.

Celebrating South Florida's Top Talent

The Masquerade Gala also served as a platform to honor and celebrate South Florida's Top Talent across various hospitality categories. From sales and marketing to hotel general management and revenue optimization, the evening will recognized both newcomer superstars and seasoned leaders who have made significant contributions to the industry.

Innovation Award - Robert Levine, ComOps
President's Award - Greg Bohan, Florida Atlantic University
Sales & Marketing Professional of the Year - Gina Genna, Intercontinental Miami
Revenue Manager Professional of the Year - Medgine Desir, Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood
General Manager Professional of the Year - Anna MacDiarmid, W Ft. Lauderdale Beach

"We are excited to come together for the 38th Annual HSMAI Masquerade Gala to celebrate the successes of our industry and pay tribute to the remarkable individuals who have shaped and elevated hospitality," said Michael Oaks, Co-President at HSMAI. "This year's honoree, Jorge Pesquera, embodies the spirit of excellence, and we look forward to recognizing and celebrating the diverse talents that make South Florida a hub of hospitality innovation."